Thy detailed letter was received. Its perusal produced the
utmost happiness, for it evidenced the fact that thou hast attained to the
knowledge of the reality of tests; that tests endured in the path of God are
conducive to confirmation; nay, rather, they are heavenly powers and the
bounties of the Realm of Might. But to weak believers tests are trials and
examination, for, on account of the weakness of their faith and assurance they
fall into difficulties and vicissitudes. However, to those souls who are firm
and steadfast, tests are the greatest favors.
Consider thou that at the time of an examination in sciences
and arts, the dull and lazy pupil finds himself in calamity. But to the
intelligent and sagacious student examination in learning produces honor and
infinite happiness. Alloyed gold, subjected to the fire, portrays its baseness,
while the intensity of the flame enhances the beauty of pure gold.
Therefore, tests to the weak souls are calamity and to the
veiled ones the cause of their disgrace and humiliation. The point is This,
that in the path of Truth every difficulty is made plain and every trial is the
matchless bounty. Therefore, the believers of God and the maid servants of the
Merciful must not relax during trial and no disaster must deter their service
in the Cause of God.
- ‘Abdu’l-Baha (From a Tablet; Star of the West, vol.2, no.
15, December 12, 1911)
