Baha'i Perspectives

nadim October 4th, 2009

I’ve had good cheer on the brain recently. An unexpected sunny spell in the UK will surely have contributed, it may also have to do with my recent posts being of a quite solemn nature! We all love those stories of the Central Figures of the Baha’i Faith, who against the grain of expectation, will suddenly infuse a situation with a touch of humour – an unexpected twist that leaves the recipient in a state of numbed delight. One might suggest, then, that humour was the ideal response to the given situation!

We all have questions about the nature of humour.  What is the ultimate form of humour? Should slapstick be banned:)? Are there universal standards of acceptable humour or is this largely bound by cultural constructs? When are we crossing the line? Is there even a line? Or is it more like a zigzag?

I don’t claim to have any answers beyond those I create for myself. As always though, we are blessed to have the Writings to help us in developing our own constructs…

Humour too, as you say, is an essential element in preserving a proper balance in this life and in our comprehension of reality.

(Shoghi Effendi)

Abandonment of “a frivolous conduct” does not imply that a Bahá’í must be sour-faced or perpetually solemn. Humour, happiness, joy are characteristics of a true Bahá’í life. Frivolity palls and eventually leads to boredom and emptiness, but true happiness and joy and humour that are parts of a balanced life that includes serious thought, compassion and humble servitude to God are characteristics that enrich life and add to its radiance.

(Shoghi Effendi)

The Universal House of Justice has requested us to acknowledge your letter of November 6, 1977 and to say that while laughter should not be suppressed or frowned upon, it should not be indulged in at the expense of the feelings of others. What one says or does in a humorous vein should not give rise to prejudice of any kind. You may recall Abdu’l-Bahá’í caution “Beware lest ye offend the feelings of anyone, or sadden the heart of any person…” (From “Tablets of Abdu’l-Bahá”, vol. I, p. 45) (1 December 1977 to an individual believer)

There is a note in Abdu’l-Bahá’s character that has not been emphasized, and with which no idea of him is complete. The impressive dignity which distinguishes his presence and bearing is occasionally lighted by a delicate and tactful humour, which is as unaffected as it is infectious and delightful.

On his last afternoon in London, a reporter called to ask him of his future plans, finding him surrounded by a number of friends who had called to bid him good-bye. When, in answer to this query, Abdu’l-Bahá told in perfect English of his intention to visit Paris and go from there to Alexandria, the press representative evinced surprise at his faultless pronunciation. Thereupon Abdu’l-Bahá proceeded to march with a free stride up and down the flower-scented drawing room, his Oriental garb contrasting strangely with his modern surroundings; and, to the amusement of the assembly, uttered a string of elaborate English words, laughingly ending, “Very difficult English words I speak!”

(Abdu’l-Bahá in London)

Bahá’í scholars, especially those who are scholars in the teachings and history of the Faith itself, would be well advised to remember that scholars have often been most wrong when they have been most certain that they were right. The virtues of moderation, humility and humour in regard to one’s own work and ideas are a potent protection against this danger.

(Bahá’í Scholarship Statements from the World Centre)

Shoghi Effendi, like his grandfather and great-grandfather before him, had a delightful sense of humour which was ready to manifest itself if he were given any chance to be happy or enjoy a little peace of mind. His eyes would fairly dance with amusement, he would chuckle delightedly and sometimes break out into open laughter. Inside his family, with those he was familiar with, he liked to tease.

(Ruhiyyih Khanum : The Guardian of the Baha’i Faith)

Finally, enjoy this comic from some talented friends of mine!

Tags: humour

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