Ḥuqúqu’lláh: A path to spiritual and material prosperity
The Deputy Trustees of Ḥuqúqu’lláh for New Zealand invite the Bahá'í community to reflect on the deep spiritual significance of the mighty law of Ḥuqúqu’lláh ("The Right of God"). Shared below are excerpts from the Writings and further resources for study relating to this sacred law.
Quotations for reflection
Bahá’u’lláh Himself reminds us:
“This ordinance is binding upon everyone, and by observing it one will be raised to honour inasmuch as it will serve to purify one’s possessions and will impart blessing, and added prosperity. However, the people are as yet ignorant of its significance. They continually endeavour to amass riches by lawful or unlawful means in order to transmit them to their heirs, and this to what advantage, no one can tell.”
(Compilation of Ḥuqúqu’lláh, n.9)
Those who understand this law, and apply it in their lives, have been chosen by God for this unique privilege. As ‘Abdu’l-Bahá eloquently stated:
“From amongst all mankind hath He chosen you, and your eyes have been opened to the light of guidance and your ears attuned to the music of the Company above; and blessed by abounding grace, your hearts and souls have been born into new life...To thank Him for this, make ye a mighty effort, and choose for yourselves a noble goal.”
(Selections from the Writings of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá, Section 17)
The Spiritual and Social Dimensions of Ḥuqúqu’lláh
It is vital that Bahá'ís serving the institution of Ḥuqúqu’lláh remain focused on the spiritual significance of this law, both individually and collectively:
“It is essential, then, that the spiritual significance of this mighty law, both in its individual and its social dimensions, remain uppermost in the minds of those serving the institution of the Right of God.”
(From a letter dated 21 June 2016 from the Universal House of Justice to the International Board of Trustees)
Resources for understanding and applying Ḥuqúqu’lláh
Compilation on Ḥuqúqu’lláh
… it is helpful to remember the limited resources available to beloved Ḥájí Amín. His unwavering dedication to the Blessed Beauty and steadfastness in the Covenant kindled a spirit of compliance with the law. Love, joy, and heartfelt devotion were the essential tools this early Trustee used to share the mighty law of Ḥuqúqu’lláh with the believers. Now we have a compilation of writings on Ḥuqúqu’lláh, a comprehensive resource that encompasses extracts from Bahá’u’lláh’s counsel to His Chief Trustee of Ḥuqúqu’lláh, along with subsequent guidance from ‘Abdu’l-Bahá, Shoghi Effendi, and the Universal House of Justice. This Compilation stands as a steadfast guide and a reliable source for our educational pursuits. Even a single excerpt from this life-giving and infallible guidance can be transformative. It is crucial that the believers be aware of its availability and be actively encouraged to acquire a personal copy for ongoing reference. (Extracted from Ḥuqúqu’lláh Newsletter)
The compilation can be found at Ḥuqúqu’lláh—The Right of God | Bahá’í Reference Library (bahai.org)
Ḥuqúqu’lláh—The Right of God (Twelve Lessons) Course
In addition, the Ḥuqúqu’lláh—The Right of God (Twelve Lessons) course…offers a comprehensive 8–10 hour study that explores both the spiritual and practical aspects of the law. Those who have participated in this study have found it helpful in feeling more comfortable to discuss Ḥuqúqu’lláh in various settings.
Further study programmes
For those looking to explore the broader implications of Bahá’u’lláh’s teachings on wealth and material resources, the following study programmes are also available:
“A New Attitude” Conversation Cards (9-10 hrs.): This study explores how Ḥuqúqu’lláh contributes to the spiritualisation of humanity and encourages meaningful conversations on how to integrate these teachings into daily life.
Work, Wealth, and Service (8-10 hrs.): Aimed at young adults, this programme delves into the Bahá'í perspective on wealth, work, and service, highlighting the importance of financial independence and striving for an equitable society.
Family Life and Ḥuqúqu’lláh (8-10 hrs.): This programme focuses on nurturing children to understand their welfare as interconnected with the welfare of others, helping families foster healthy attitudes toward wealth.
Participation and further engagement
If you are interested in any of the resources or these study programmes, please reach out to your local Ḥuqúqu’lláh Representative, or email: rightofgod@bahai.org.nz. You can also join a monthly Zoom gathering to discuss Ḥuqúqu’lláh, share insights and stories, or simply listen. To participate, email the above address, and a Zoom link will be sent to you.
With warmest Bahá'í love,
Deputy Trustees of Ḥuqúqu’lláh for New Zealand
