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The Hidden Words Of Bahá'u'lláh
Containing the essence of wisdom of the world religion's past prophets, this unusual and inspiring collection of spiritual teaching will appeal to people of all religions.
106 pages, Hardcover
First published January 1, 1858
57 people are currently reading
978 people want to read
About the author
Bahá'u'lláh
203 books105 followersPersian religious leader Bahaullah, originally Mirza Huseyn Ali, a follower of the Bab, founded the Baha'i in 1863.
Baha'i, the word, signifies a follower of Bahaullah, which means the "splendor of God" in Persian.
Bahá'u'lláh, a member of the great patrician family, endowed with wealth and vast estates, ably traced lineage to the ruling dynasties of imperial past. Bahá'u'lláh turned his back on the position at court, which these advantages offered; people knew his generosity and kindliness, which made him deeply loved among his countrymen.
The religious revolution caused much social upheaval, and Bahá'u'lláh announced support for the message, so his privileged position survived not long. After the execution, authorities unleashed the the waves of violence unleashed upon the Bábis; Bahá'u'lláh, engulfed, suffered the loss of all his worldly endowments, and imprisonment, torture, and a series of banishment subjected him. In the first banishment to Baghdad, he in 1863 announced that God promised his coming as the one divine messenger.
From Baghdad, people sent Bahá'u'lláh to Constantinople, to Adrianople, and finally to Acre in the Holy Land, where he arrived as a prisoner in 1868. From Adrianople and later from Acre, Bahá'u'lláh addressed a series of letters among the most remarkable documents in religious history to the rulers of his day. They proclaimed the coming unification of humanity and the emergence of a world civilization. They called upon the monarchs, emperors, and presidents of the 19th century to reconcile their differences, to curtail their armaments, and to devote their energies to the establishment of universal peace.
Bahá'u'lláh passed away at Bahji, just north of Acre, and people buried his body. His teachings already began to spread beyond the confines of the Middle East and brought the world community, focused on the point of his shrine today.
Baha'i, the word, signifies a follower of Bahaullah, which means the "splendor of God" in Persian.
Bahá'u'lláh, a member of the great patrician family, endowed with wealth and vast estates, ably traced lineage to the ruling dynasties of imperial past. Bahá'u'lláh turned his back on the position at court, which these advantages offered; people knew his generosity and kindliness, which made him deeply loved among his countrymen.
The religious revolution caused much social upheaval, and Bahá'u'lláh announced support for the message, so his privileged position survived not long. After the execution, authorities unleashed the the waves of violence unleashed upon the Bábis; Bahá'u'lláh, engulfed, suffered the loss of all his worldly endowments, and imprisonment, torture, and a series of banishment subjected him. In the first banishment to Baghdad, he in 1863 announced that God promised his coming as the one divine messenger.
From Baghdad, people sent Bahá'u'lláh to Constantinople, to Adrianople, and finally to Acre in the Holy Land, where he arrived as a prisoner in 1868. From Adrianople and later from Acre, Bahá'u'lláh addressed a series of letters among the most remarkable documents in religious history to the rulers of his day. They proclaimed the coming unification of humanity and the emergence of a world civilization. They called upon the monarchs, emperors, and presidents of the 19th century to reconcile their differences, to curtail their armaments, and to devote their energies to the establishment of universal peace.
Bahá'u'lláh passed away at Bahji, just north of Acre, and people buried his body. His teachings already began to spread beyond the confines of the Middle East and brought the world community, focused on the point of his shrine today.
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March 2, 2024
A Baha'i Religious Text
I have had a long curiosity about the Baha'i Faith and its teachings of the universal nature of religion, the unity of human beings, and the imperative of tolerating and respecting beliefs different from one's own. I have always been intrigued by how these teachings of universalism and the essential unity of all religions can fit within the confines of an individual, independent religion, the Baha'i Faith, with its own teachings and texts. Thus, I was pleased to have the opportunity to read this short book "The Hidden Words of Bahaullah" composed by the founder of the Baha'i Faith, Baha'u'llah (1817 -- 1892) while in prison. The book was written in part in Arabic and in part in Persian and was translated by Baha'u'llah's disciple, Shogi Effendi. This book was my first experience with Baha'i scripture.
"The Hidden Words of Baha'u'llah" consists of about 153 short paragraphs in two parts. It is cast in the form of short revelations to Bahaullah each of which is prefaced by a short exhortation such as "To the Son of Man" characterizing the person or persons to whom the revelation is addressed. There is a brief introductory paragraph to the collection, indicating that the aim of the text is to distill, in short form, teachings that are universal to the spiritual life. This goal of the collection is reflected in some of the comments on this site. These teachings have, and were intended to have, many parallels in the teachings of the other great world religions.
The teachings speak of the need for a pure heart, of the need of detachment from everyday life, and of the importance of not envying, critcizing or condemning others. I was struck by the other-worldliness of many of the teachings, as they exhort the follower to turn away from materialism and desire and turn one's attention and heart to the divine. To me, some of the teachings seem directed to mankind, while others, if I am not mistaken, appear primarily directed towards Baha'u'llah himself. In this latter regard, there are several of the teachings which speak of the value of imprisonment, suffering and martyrdom as they advance the cause of God. These teachings seem to be directed to the founder of the faith or to those in danger of persecution on account of their beliefs. While most of the short sayings are readily intelligible to readers of many backgrounds, some sections, particularly near the end of the book, allude to figures that have some specific meaning for the Baha'i faith.
This book is known within the Baha'i community but will appeal to those who have an interest in exploring a variety of spiritual traditions. I am in this latter group. It is an inspiring text. The work here is presented without an introduction, notes, or commentary. Thus, I was unable to learn the place of this specific text within the Baha'i teachings as a whole. An introduction to the book with an overview of the Baha'i Faith and of how this book fits within it would have been invaluable. Also, notes in the way of a commentary on the organization and substance of the text would have been helpful. There is always a great deal more to understanding a short spiritual work than reading the words of the text. Context and discussion would be useful.
This is an important religious text, and it is good to have it widely accessible. It will appeal to those readers interested in the Baha'i Faith, to those interested in comparative religion, and to those interested in spiritual growth.
Robin Friedman
I have had a long curiosity about the Baha'i Faith and its teachings of the universal nature of religion, the unity of human beings, and the imperative of tolerating and respecting beliefs different from one's own. I have always been intrigued by how these teachings of universalism and the essential unity of all religions can fit within the confines of an individual, independent religion, the Baha'i Faith, with its own teachings and texts. Thus, I was pleased to have the opportunity to read this short book "The Hidden Words of Bahaullah" composed by the founder of the Baha'i Faith, Baha'u'llah (1817 -- 1892) while in prison. The book was written in part in Arabic and in part in Persian and was translated by Baha'u'llah's disciple, Shogi Effendi. This book was my first experience with Baha'i scripture.
"The Hidden Words of Baha'u'llah" consists of about 153 short paragraphs in two parts. It is cast in the form of short revelations to Bahaullah each of which is prefaced by a short exhortation such as "To the Son of Man" characterizing the person or persons to whom the revelation is addressed. There is a brief introductory paragraph to the collection, indicating that the aim of the text is to distill, in short form, teachings that are universal to the spiritual life. This goal of the collection is reflected in some of the comments on this site. These teachings have, and were intended to have, many parallels in the teachings of the other great world religions.
The teachings speak of the need for a pure heart, of the need of detachment from everyday life, and of the importance of not envying, critcizing or condemning others. I was struck by the other-worldliness of many of the teachings, as they exhort the follower to turn away from materialism and desire and turn one's attention and heart to the divine. To me, some of the teachings seem directed to mankind, while others, if I am not mistaken, appear primarily directed towards Baha'u'llah himself. In this latter regard, there are several of the teachings which speak of the value of imprisonment, suffering and martyrdom as they advance the cause of God. These teachings seem to be directed to the founder of the faith or to those in danger of persecution on account of their beliefs. While most of the short sayings are readily intelligible to readers of many backgrounds, some sections, particularly near the end of the book, allude to figures that have some specific meaning for the Baha'i faith.
This book is known within the Baha'i community but will appeal to those who have an interest in exploring a variety of spiritual traditions. I am in this latter group. It is an inspiring text. The work here is presented without an introduction, notes, or commentary. Thus, I was unable to learn the place of this specific text within the Baha'i teachings as a whole. An introduction to the book with an overview of the Baha'i Faith and of how this book fits within it would have been invaluable. Also, notes in the way of a commentary on the organization and substance of the text would have been helpful. There is always a great deal more to understanding a short spiritual work than reading the words of the text. Context and discussion would be useful.
This is an important religious text, and it is good to have it widely accessible. It will appeal to those readers interested in the Baha'i Faith, to those interested in comparative religion, and to those interested in spiritual growth.
Robin Friedman
July 24, 2025
This book was written by Baháʼu'lláh (the founder of the Baháʼí Faith). The style and wording very much reminded me of Gibran, Hafez, Khayyam, Rumi and Tagore. It is a book that I will read again; flipping through to find random inspirational sayings. Really am starting to look for answers...we all have to find a way to light the path forward.
December 4, 2013
If I could only read one book for the rest of my life, this would be it. It claims to be the essence of all Divinely revealed truth "clothed in the garment of brevity." Whether you believe that or not, you will find comfort, insight and guidance that rises above the level of intellect, theology and dogma to speak directly to your soul. It is the modern equivalent of the Psalms, Proverbs and the Beatitudes rolled into one.
Meditating on it will make you feel better, and help you become a better person. What more could you want from a book with only a few thousand words?
Meditating on it will make you feel better, and help you become a better person. What more could you want from a book with only a few thousand words?
December 4, 2013
Wonderful, inspiring book by the Founder of the Baha'i Faith; divine Scripture. It is above rating.
December 29, 2018
This is a beautiful edition of one of the most accessible and rewarding of Baha'i writings. The illustrations by Corinne Randall are a perfect complement to the scripture, and reading this work - either straight through, or in short passages over time - is a great way to meditate on how to be a good person, and how we should direct our relationships with one another and with God. Whether or not one is an adherent to the Baha'i faith, all can find wisdom in Bahá'u'lláh's writings.
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September 7, 2007This book is a handbook for life. You need no other book at all. This Holy Book is a worthwhile companion to be carried with you at all times. It teaches how us how to live a worthy life of service to mankind. Well worth a read, and meditation. These small verses have been sung, chanted, read, and quoted by many diverse people of different backgrounds.
August 27, 2012
The Hidden Words consists of short utterances written by Bahá'u'lláh, the founder of the Bahá'í Faith. I guess this is not the place to even begin to analyze the text. I can only describe the experience by using adjectives such as sublime, majestic, resplendent, exalted and so on.
July 8, 2009
This small book was one of the two works of actual Baha'i scripture, set down by the founder of the Baha'i Faith, Baha'u'llah, which showed me a brief, if profound, sample of the spirit and wisdom this Faith is founded on.
This book as well at "Gleanings From the Writings of Baha'u'llah" gave me an accurate overview of the spiritual writings. If you want to investigate truth for yourself,(a fundamental Baha'i principle), look at the scriptures of a religion to find out what the founder was about, not just what the followers are saying. Then ask your questions with an open, searching heart, with a clear vision. To learn about Christianity look to Christ; Islam, Muhammad; Buddhism, the Buddha; the Baha'i Faith, Baha'u'llah.
Just a quick note that I've registered this book at BookCrossing.com, so that I can keep up on where it goes, who reads it, and what they thought of it. Please visit www.BookCrossing.com/223-7330498 to make a quick journal entry, then pass the book along to someone else who will appreciate it. We can all track this book's journey and the lives it touches forever more!
This book as well at "Gleanings From the Writings of Baha'u'llah" gave me an accurate overview of the spiritual writings. If you want to investigate truth for yourself,(a fundamental Baha'i principle), look at the scriptures of a religion to find out what the founder was about, not just what the followers are saying. Then ask your questions with an open, searching heart, with a clear vision. To learn about Christianity look to Christ; Islam, Muhammad; Buddhism, the Buddha; the Baha'i Faith, Baha'u'llah.
Just a quick note that I've registered this book at BookCrossing.com, so that I can keep up on where it goes, who reads it, and what they thought of it. Please visit www.BookCrossing.com/223-7330498 to make a quick journal entry, then pass the book along to someone else who will appreciate it. We can all track this book's journey and the lives it touches forever more!
October 7, 2010
A great book to read, morning and night. I like to read one Hidden Word in the morning, contemplate it and attempt to apply it each day.
Copies can be found at Baha'i centers or Houses of Worship. They can also be purchased for a little over $5, $22 and $11, respectively at the US Baha'i Publishing Trust. (There are publishing trusts in other countries as well).
http://www.bahaibookstore.com/product...
http://www.bahaibookstore.com/product...
http://www.bahaibookstore.com/product...
Copies can be found at Baha'i centers or Houses of Worship. They can also be purchased for a little over $5, $22 and $11, respectively at the US Baha'i Publishing Trust. (There are publishing trusts in other countries as well).
http://www.bahaibookstore.com/product...
http://www.bahaibookstore.com/product...
http://www.bahaibookstore.com/product...
March 28, 2014
I have listed Hidden Words as 'to read' even though I've read it so many times I've lost count. The simple truth is that no matter how many times we read these truths we always learn something new. The Hidden Words is an essential part of my growth as a human being and as a Baha'i.
August 2, 2007
The Essence of the Divine Decrees Since the beginning.
June 7, 2016
Very interesting. Like the Bible met philosophy 101. Still mulling this one over.
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January 31, 2022Why are gods always complaining that nobody pays attention to them? The cover artwork here is completely gorgeous, though.
October 30, 2016
short book, would be better without the thy, thine, thee, thou olde english vernacular. very repetitive. god is amazing, seek god, be one with this omnipotent god and everything will be hunky dorry... not a good book. ill give his other books a chance though. i personally dont believe in a god like this, to me this just seems like self esteem training, be one with god and youll get what u want or bear tragedies because they arent tragedies at all and its actually mercy, i do kinda like that part, the muslims follow that, i guess it could be worse, no matter how bad it got.
the saying god helps those that help themselves is a good example that its just self esteem or whatever. id rather have someone tell me i have power i dont know about vs. accepting a god. *shrug
it could be detrimental if you dont fully, whole heartedly believe in such a god.
im willing to give this guy a fair shake, all his followers ive known personally seem to be very peaceful and at ease. they all had money though. im digging stoic philosophy more.
the saying god helps those that help themselves is a good example that its just self esteem or whatever. id rather have someone tell me i have power i dont know about vs. accepting a god. *shrug
it could be detrimental if you dont fully, whole heartedly believe in such a god.
im willing to give this guy a fair shake, all his followers ive known personally seem to be very peaceful and at ease. they all had money though. im digging stoic philosophy more.
January 24, 2012
Meet your Lord, and see what he has to say in thse revelatory words of wisdom. You cannot help but be uplifted, soothed and felt secure in its exposition.
August 12, 2014
Beautiful. Everything that comes from the pen of Baha'u'llah is beautiful.
June 24, 2017
inspiring, uplifting, powerful, suitable for daily reading
Read
January 29, 2022Read many times. Not really a book subject to conventional review.
September 24, 2018
Ask not of Me that which We desire not for thee, then be content with what We have ordained for thy sake, for this is that which profiteth thee, if therewith thou dost content thyself.
This is a very short introduction into the Bahá'í faith for those who are looking for a quick peek into it. While I admire much of their theology, it really is just a branch off of the old Abraham tree. For Jews, Christians and Muslims who feel their religions are intellectually sound, but who feel they lack the sort of mystical beauty of the Sufis, Hindus or Sikhs, the Bahá'í faith may be right for you.
Regarding the translation, writing in old English doesn't make dull text suddenly intellectual and deep. There is absolutely no reason to translate text like this, save for the purpose of misleading and misdirecting the reader into believing certain biases.
I'm not sure The Hidden Words have anything new to offer to the world of religions and faiths. Perhaps at the time of the writing, and in the place of the writing, it was something really worth delving into. While there are a few nice snips of wisdom here and there throughout the book, for the most part it is wisdom that is well-known and written about by others elsewhere with more precision. If you have any background in the Abrahamic faiths, it will feel like old news to you. For these reasons, I wasn't impressed.
Ye shall be hindered from loving Me and souls shall be perturbed as they make mention of Me. For minds cannot grasp Me nor hearts contain Me. What use is this book then, eh?
This is a very short introduction into the Bahá'í faith for those who are looking for a quick peek into it. While I admire much of their theology, it really is just a branch off of the old Abraham tree. For Jews, Christians and Muslims who feel their religions are intellectually sound, but who feel they lack the sort of mystical beauty of the Sufis, Hindus or Sikhs, the Bahá'í faith may be right for you.
Regarding the translation, writing in old English doesn't make dull text suddenly intellectual and deep. There is absolutely no reason to translate text like this, save for the purpose of misleading and misdirecting the reader into believing certain biases.
I'm not sure The Hidden Words have anything new to offer to the world of religions and faiths. Perhaps at the time of the writing, and in the place of the writing, it was something really worth delving into. While there are a few nice snips of wisdom here and there throughout the book, for the most part it is wisdom that is well-known and written about by others elsewhere with more precision. If you have any background in the Abrahamic faiths, it will feel like old news to you. For these reasons, I wasn't impressed.
Ye shall be hindered from loving Me and souls shall be perturbed as they make mention of Me. For minds cannot grasp Me nor hearts contain Me. What use is this book then, eh?
January 30, 2025
Mystical Writings exploring the relationship between God and man, Baha'u'llah Himself states that it is the inner essence of what was revealed to the Prophets of old and clothed in the garment of brevity. Composed as He walked along the banks of the Tigris River in Bagdad it is a great source of inspiration for meditation on man's struggle to follow a spiritual path inthis worldly realm.
December 18, 2020
Loved this book. Baha'u'llah tells us in short writings how we should live our lives. "My first counsel is this: Possess a pure kindly and radiant heart..." "The best beloved of all things in My sight is Justice, turn not away therefrom if thou desirest Me,..." I am sorry I finished it but will always refer to it for my life.
August 5, 2016
A collection of aphorisms by the Persian religious leader Baha'u'llah. Many of them are quite lovely and resonate very well with the teachings of Jesus; others are more obscure and mysterious in their import.
April 8, 2021
This collection of spiritual aphorisms often makes use of beautiful metaphorical imagery to convey its divine message of unity & humility. An enjoyable and inspirational read. I'll be checking out more from Bahá'u'lláh and the Báb in the future.
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June 1, 2015Very beautiful and inspiring verse.
June 10, 2016
Touching and beautiful.
February 27, 2021
These are truly "gem-like utterances" contained in the cloak of brevity and point to a spiritual path for the world to tread
March 21, 2021
Best book to start nurturing your spirit daily
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October 20, 2022I was able to use one of the poetic pieces from "The Hidden Words" in encouraging a young twelve year old girl whose experience with competitive fellow students on the field, when grading was happening on participation and on collaboration, gave way to tears since no one was passing her the ball, to focus on how noble she was, and to help her NOT weep next time it happens.
"Noble have I created thee, yet thou hast abased thyself. ..."
"....abase not thyself...neither sigh nor weep...."
"Noble have I created thee, yet thou hast abased thyself. ..."
"....abase not thyself...neither sigh nor weep...."
Read
July 19, 2021O son of man! The temple of being is My throne; cleanse it of all things, that there I may be established and there I may abide.
O son of being! Thy heart is My home; sanctify it for My descent. Thy spirit is My place of revelation; cleanse it for My manifestation.
January 2, 2025
Hermosa inspiración. Recomendado para quienes tengan dudas sobre como hacer de su espiritualidad algo más significativo, más allá de los dogmas y mandamientos que aprendió a lo largo de la vida. La excelencia esta en la capacidad de prestar atención a los consejos de las manifestaciones y vivir en armonía con lo mejor que Dios espera para cada uno
Displaying 1 - 30 of 42 reviews