Lesser Covenant and the Line of Succession

Definition and Purpose of the Lesser Covenant

The Lesser Covenant represents a "specific teaching not given by any of the Prophets of the past". Its most significant feature is the "ordination and appointment of the Center of the Covenant". Baháʼu’lláh established this Covenant with "all the people of the world, including the interpreter and explainer of His teachings".

The fundamental object of the Lesser Covenant is to "safeguard and protect the religion of God against differences and schisms," thereby making it "impossible for anyone to create a new sect or faction of belief". It is designed "To ensure unity and agreement" by preventing individuals from interpreting or explaining the religion according to their "own view or opinion".

Lesser Covenant and the Line of Succession

'Abdu'l-Bahá is the immediate fulfillment of this aspect of the Lesser Covenant. Baháʼu’lláh's Kitáb-i-Aqdas and Kitáb-i-'Ahd explicitly instruct His followers to "turn your faces toward Him Whom God hath purposed, Who hath branched from this Ancient Root," stating that this "Most Mighty Branch" is none other than 'Abdu'l-Bahá, the "Center of the Covenant".

This appointment of 'Abdu'l-Bahá as the Center of the Covenant by Baháʼu’lláh initiates the divinely-appointed line of succession, which is paramount for maintaining the integrity and unity of the Faith, as intended by the Lesser Covenant.

Connection to Twin Institutions and Challenges

The Lesser Covenant provides the foundational principle for the continuous, divinely-guided authority that is subsequently embodied in the Twin Institutions of the Guardianship and the Universal House of Justice (UHJ).

Continuity of Divine Guidance: 'Abdu'l-Bahá, acting under the authority established by the Lesser Covenant, appointed Shoghi Effendi as the First Guardian. The sources assert that divine guidance flows after the Prophet's ascension "through, first the Master, and then the Guardians". The Guardianship is crucial for the "World Order of Bahá’u’lláh," as "divorced from the institution of the Guardianship the World Order... would be mutilated" and its "integrity... imperiled, and the stability of the entire fabric would be gravely endangered".

Preventing Deviation and Schism: The explicit purpose of the Lesser Covenant—to prevent "differences and schisms" and ensure unity—is directly linked by the sources to the continuous presence of a Guardian. The sources emphasize that a "Guardian on this earth" is necessary "to keep us from deviating from the truth" and to "guide us to God's Kingdom". Without a Guardian, the sources question how the "large body of Bahá'ís keep themselves from deviating from the truth" and assert that if the Will and Testament is not followed, they "must be already deviating".

The Guardianship as Head of the UHJ: The Lesser Covenant's establishment of a successive authority is further critical because, as 'Abdu'l-Bahá decreed, "the guardian of the Cause of God is its sacred head and the distinguished member for life of that body [the UHJ]". The sources repeatedly challenge the legitimacy of a Universal House of Justice without a living Guardian, asking, "How can a body live without a head?".

Line of Succession as a Safeguard: The sources, representing the "North-East Indian Baha'is," present a continuous line of Guardians: Baháʼu’lláh to 'Abdu'l-Bahá, then to Shoghi Effendi (First Guardian), Charles Mason Remey (Second Guardian), Joel Bray Marangella (Third Guardian), and Nosrat’u’llah Bahremand as the current Guardian. This unbroken chain is viewed as the mechanism through which the Baháʼí Faith remains "impregnable and safe", directly upholding the protective function of the Lesser Covenant against schism and deviation.

Challenges Arising from Perceived Deviation: The challenges to the Administrative Order discussed in previous interactions, such as the "rampant immorality in Haifan Baha'i Faith", the "illegitimate" collection of Huququ'llah by an unauthorized UHJ, and the "never ending humiliation for sincere Baha'is" within local administrative bodies, are attributed to the perceived breakdown of this divinely ordained succession. Specifically, the "illegitimate UHJ" is described as having been "spuriously created by the former Hands of the Cause, without authority and in total contradiction to the provisions of the sacred Will and Testament of 'Abdu’l-Bahá". This perceived fundamental departure from the established line of succession, rooted in the principles of the Lesser Covenant, is seen as the cause of the Faith's "problem" and deviation from "the truth".

In essence, the Lesser Covenant, by ordaining and appointing a continuous, authoritative succession beginning with the Center of the Covenant, 'Abdu'l-Bahá, is presented by these sources as the fundamental safeguard against disunity and misinterpretation. The challenges to the Baháʼí Administrative Order are consequently framed as direct consequences of a perceived breach in this divinely established line of authority, particularly regarding the Guardianship, which is viewed as essential for upholding the Covenant's protective purpose.

The Ideal Administrative Order and Succession

The Baháʼí Administrative Order, as described by Shoghi Effendi and 'Abdu'l-Bahá, is divinely ordained, essential, and complementary, comprising the Twin Institutions of the Guardianship and the Universal House of Justice (UHJ). Their fundamental object is to ensure the continuity of divine authority, safeguard unity, and maintain the integrity and flexibility of Baháʼí teachings. These institutions are "chosen Successors" destined to apply principles, promulgate laws, protect institutions, and adapt the Faith.

The Guardianship's Role: The Guardian is described as the "sacred head" and "distinguished member for life" of the Universal House of Justice. The Guardianship ensures the continuity of "divine guidance" after the Prophet's ascension and the Master ('Abdu'l-Bahá). It is a "Mighty stronghold" through which the Cause remains "impregnable and safe". Shoghi Effendi states that the Guardian "enhances the prestige of the exalted assembly [UHJ], stabilizes its supreme position, safeguards its unity, assures the continuity of its labors". The Guardian cannot override the majority decision of the UHJ but can insist on reconsideration of enactments believed to conflict with Baháʼu’lláh's utterances.

The Universal House of Justice's Role: The House of Justice, "ordained as the source of all good and freed from all error," is to be elected by universal suffrage. The Twin Institutions are meant to act in conjunction, administering affairs, coordinating activities, promoting interests, executing laws, and defending subsidiary institutions.

Succession: Baháʼu’lláh appointed 'Abdu'l-Bahá as the Center of the Covenant. 'Abdu'l-Bahá, in turn, appointed Shoghi Effendi as the First Guardian, with instructions for the Guardian to appoint his successor during his lifetime. The Will and Testament specifies that the successor would be the "first-born of his lineal descendents" unless that person lacked a "goodly character," in which case another branch could be chosen.

The sources identify a specific line of succession: Baháʼu’lláh, 'Abdu’l-Bahá, Shoghi Effendi (First Guardian), Charles Mason Remey (Second Guardian), and Joel Bray Marangella (Third Guardian), with Nosrat’u’llah Bahremand being the current Guardian. This continuous line is presented as essential for divine guidance and to prevent deviation from the truth.

Core Challenge: The Absence of a Legitimate Guardian and an "Illegitimate UHJ"

The central challenge identified by these sources is the perceived absence of a legitimate Guardian within what they term the "Haifan Baha'i Faith" and the resulting "illegitimate" or "bogus" Universal House of Justice. They argue that the "so called UHJ was spuriously created by the former Hands of the Cause, without authority and in total contradiction to the provisions of the Will and Testament of 'Abdu’l-Bahá".

Specific Challenges to the Administrative Order

This fundamental perceived deviation leads to a series of significant challenges and breakdowns within the Administrative Order:

Mutilation of the World Order and Loss of Divine Guidance: Shoghi Effendi explicitly stated, "Divorced from the institution of the Guardianship the World Order of Bahá’u’lláh would be mutilated" and its "integrity... imperiled, and the stability of the entire fabric would be gravely endangered". The sources assert that without a living Guardian, the Faith is not "being kept from becoming endangered" and lacks "the necessary guidance to define the sphere of the legislative action of its elected representatives [UHJ]". They question how the "large body of Bahá'ís" can "keep themselves from deviating from the truth" if they believe there is no Guardian.

A Universal House of Justice Without a Head: A key point of contention is 'Abdu'l-Bahá's clear ordination that "the guardian of the Cause of God is its sacred head and the distinguished member for life of that body [the UHJ]". The sources repeatedly ask, "How can a body live without a head?" if there is no Guardian. This highlights a perceived structural impossibility for the UHJ to function legitimately in the absence of a Guardian.

Non-Adherence to 'Abdu'l-Bahá's Will and Testament: The sources claim that several instructions from 'Abdu'l-Bahá's Will and Testament are "not being followed" because the "large body of Bahá'ís" believes there is no Guardian. Examples include:

The requirement for the Hands of the Cause to "elect from their own number nine persons that shall at all times be occupied in the important services in the work of the Guardian".

The incumbent duty upon all believers, including the members of the House of Justice, to "show their obedience, submissiveness and subordination Unto the guardian of the Cause of God, to turn unto him and be lowly before him".

The Guardian's role in directing the Hands of the Cause to "continually urge them to strive and endeavor... to diffuse the sweet savors of God, and to guide all the peoples of the world". This non-adherence leads to the conclusion that the "large body of Bahá'ís" "must be already deviating" from the truth.

Immorality and Moral Failure: As discussed previously, the sources explicitly link the "rampant" immorality and moral failures within the "Haifan Baha'i Faith" to the administrative breakdown. This includes "a disproportionately high rate of moral failure among the Baha’i teachers of Ruhi Children Moral Classes," with "almost ALL the most famous Baha’i Teachers hav[ing] been disgraced their moral lives". Examples of "absolute immorality" are cited in relation to Ruhi classes, counselors with "divorced life," NSA members involved in "sexual misconduct," and broader "controversies and scandals" like "elopement episodes, financial frauds, gross violation of Baha’i stipulations (like consuming alcohol and post marital affairs) and legal violations (like duplicate passports)". The lack of administrative action to address these issues, contrary to Shoghi Effendi's directives, further highlights the challenge.

Illegitimate Collection of Huququ'llah: The "illegitimate UHJ" is accused of "wrong doing" by "demanding and collecting the Right of God (Huququ’llah), without having any authority to do so and in contradiction to the provisions of the sacred Will and Testament of 'Abdu’l-Bahá". The sources assert that "only the Guardian is the right authority of the Cause, and the Guardians will be the sole lawful recipients of the Huququ’llah". The current Guardian, Nosrat’u’llah Bahremand, considers its payment "not obligatory". Furthermore, the lack of transparency in the financial affairs of the "UHJ" regarding these funds is highlighted as a serious challenge, leading to "severe mistrust" and accusations of "misappropriation of funds".

Humiliation of Sincere Baháʼís and Erosion of Trust: The Administrative Order faces challenges from within its local institutions. One instance describes a "sincere Baha’i" who was "ex-communicated" and subjected to "severe humiliation" by a Local Spiritual Assembly (LSA) for resisting interference in personal matters and for daring to "write to UHJ". This experience led the individual to lose "hopes in the administrative order of the Baha’i Faith and indeed in the integrity of LSA members and other Baha’is". This personal experience directly reinforces the belief that "all this problem in the Faith is due to not having A GUARDIAN of the Faith".

In summary, a narrative where the various challenges to the Baháʼí Administrative Order—ranging from moral failings and financial impropriety to structural illegitimacy and the inability to follow foundational texts—are fundamentally attributed to the discontinuity of the Guardianship and the perceived unauthorized establishment of a Universal House of Justice without its divinely appointed head and guiding authority. This, " leads to a Faith that is "deviating from the truth".

Evidence of Immorality and Moral Failure in the "Haifan Baháʼí Faith"

Moral state of the "Haifan Baháʼí Faith," highlighting several points:

Moral Failure Among Teachers and Leaders: There is a "disproportionately high rate of moral failure among the Baha’i teachers of Ruhi Children Moral Classes," with "almost ALL the most famous Baha’i Teachers hav[ing] been disgraced their moral lives". Furthermore, it is stated that "Every counselor has a divorced life" and "Most of the NSA members are involved in sexual misconduct". These are described as "KEY PEOPLE in the Baha’i Administration".

"Absolute Immorality" in Ruhi Curriculum Context: The sources says that "beyond and behind these ‘Ruhi Curriculum’ there is absolute immorality of Baha’is and Baha’i Teachers". Ruhi Classes are characterized as "place of Fashion Shows," "place of meeting the lovers and the loved ones," and a place where "the Baha’i teacher/facilitator can prey on the young ones" and "sexually disoriented people find their soul mates".

Broader Scandals and Violations: The "Faith in India and abroad is continuously ridden with controversies and scandals," including "numerous elopement episodes, financial frauds, gross violation of Baha’i stipulations (like consuming alcohol and post marital affairs) and legal violations (like duplicate passports)".

Lack of Administrative Action: The Baháʼí Administration is criticized for not taking appropriate action, for example, saying to "overlook" disgraceful behavior. This stands in contrast to Shoghi Effendi's instruction that "immediate action is required by the National Assembly to protect the Faith" and that "compromise and weak measures will obscure the vision of its followers, sap its strength, lower it in the eyes of the public and prevent it from making any progress".

Humiliation of Sincere Baháʼís: The sources describe instances where a "sincere Baha’i" was ex-communicated and subjected to "severe humiliation" for resisting an LSA (Local Spiritual Assembly) interference in personal matters and for daring "to write to UHJ". This led the individual to lose "hopes in the administrative order of the Baha’i Faith".

Immorality and Moral Failure in the Context of Baháʼí Twin Institutions and Succession

The core argument of these sources is that these pervasive issues stem directly from the absence of a legitimate Guardian and the rise of what they term the "illegitimate UHJ" or "bogus UHJ".

The Guardian as Safeguard Against Deviation: The Guardianship is presented as the divinely ordained institution to "insure the continuity of that divinely-appointed authority," "safeguard the unity of its followers," and "maintain the integrity and flexibility of its teachings". It is a "Mighty stronghold" through obedience to which the Cause "shall remain impregnable and safe". Shoghi Effendi is quoted as stating that "divine guidance flows on to us in this world after the Prophet’s ascension, through, first the Master, and then the Guardians". The absence of a living Guardian means that the Faith is no longer "being kept from becoming endangered" and is prone to "deviat[ing] from the truth".

The Mutilated Administrative Order: Shoghi Effendi emphasized that "Divorced from the institution of the Guardianship the World Order of Bahá’u’lláh would be mutilated" and its "integrity... imperiled". The sources elaborate that without the Guardian, the "necessary guidance to define the sphere of the legislative action of its elected representatives [UHJ] would be totally withdrawn".

The Universal House of Justice without a Head: 'Abdu'l-Bahá's Will and Testament ordains that "the guardian of the Cause of God is its sacred head and the distinguished member for life of that body" (the Universal House of Justice). The sources question: "How can a body live without a head?". They argue that the "so called UHJ was spuriously created by the former Hands of the Cause, without authority and in total contradiction to the provisions of the Will and Testament of 'Abdu’l-Bahá".

Non-Adherence to 'Abdu'l-Bahá's Will and Testament: The sources lament that instructions from 'Abdu'l-Bahá's Will and Testament are "not being followed" by the "large body of Bahá'ís" because it is "believed by most that there is no Guardian". This includes the directive for the Hands of the Cause to elect nine persons "in the important services in the work of the Guardian" and the general "obedience, submissiveness and subordination Unto the guardian of the Cause of God". The perceived non-adherence to these fundamental texts is presented as proof that the "large body of Bahá'ís" "must be already deviating" from the true Faith.

Consequences on Huququ'llah: The alleged "wrong doing" of the "illegitimate UHJ" in "demanding and collecting the Right of God (Huququ’llah), without having any authority to do so" is also mentioned in the context of their perceived moral and administrative failings, as this is the "RIGHT OF THE GUARDIAN". The lack of financial transparency from the UHJ regarding these funds is also criticized, leading to accusations of "misappropriation".

In essence,the moral decay and widespread scandals observed in the "Haifan Baháʼí Faith" are a direct consequence of what they view as a fundamental departure from the divinely ordained administrative order established by Baháʼu’lláh and 'Abdu'l-Bahá. This deviation, they contend, primarily stems from the discontinuation of the Guardianship and the subsequent illegitimate rise of the Universal House of Justice, leading to a loss of divine guidance and the integrity that a living Guardian is meant to provide.

Huququ'llah (the Right of God)

Definition and Purpose: Huququ'llah is a religious obligation requiring the payment of 19% of the surplus from the annual income of a Baháʼí's work, trade, or crop. It is acknowledged by Baháʼu’lláh in the Kitáb-i-Aqdas as a means of "increasing blessings and bounty, and to cause kindness in different respects".

Private and Personal Affair: The payment of Huququ'llah is considered a private and personal affair. No one is permitted to ask for it, nor allowed to insist upon its payment. Therefore, activities like holding meetings, public invitations, or any planning for its receipt by the USNSA (U.S. National Spiritual Assembly) are deemed "not in compliance with the Baha’i Revelations".

Prohibition on Unauthorized Collection: Baháʼu’lláh, in His tablet Lisan-e-Huzur, prohibited the attempt to own, collect, or consume Huququ'llah without the permission of the authority of the Cause.

The Guardian as the Sole Legitimate Recipient

The sources strongly assert that the Guardian of the Cause of God is the sole lawful recipient of Huququ'llah, a right explicitly tied to the established line of succession:

'Abdu'l-Bahá's Will and Testament: 'Abdu'l-Bahá's Will and Testament "clearly specified that 'only the Guardian is the right authority of the Cause, and the Guardians will be the sole lawful recipients of the Huququ’llah'". It is to be "offered through the Guardian of the Cause of God".

Shoghi Effendi's Confirmation: Shoghi Effendi, the First Guardian, emphasized that "According to the Master's Will, which complements the Aqdas, the Huquq goes only to the Guardian".

Approved Interpretations: An introduction to the Baháʼí Faith by Ahmad Yazdani, approved by Shoghi Effendi, reiterates that Huququ'llah "will be collected by the trustee of the Huququ'llah, and will be submitted to the Guardian of each period...And it will be utilized according to his decision".

Exclusion of the Universal House of Justice (UHJ): The sources explicitly state that "The Universal House of Justice, despite its position in the Baha’i Faith is not allowed to receive the Huququ’llah". Only Shoghi Effendi during his lifetime, and "the Guardians who followed thereafter are authorized to receive and consume the Huququ’llah".

Critique of the "Illegitimate" Universal House of Justice's Collection

Sources vehemently criticize the current Universal House of Justice (UHJ), referred to as the "illegitimate UHJ" or "bogus UHJ," for demanding and collecting Huququ'llah:

"Wrong Doing" and Lack of Authority: The "illegitimate UHJ" is accused of "wrong doing" by "demanding and collecting the Right of God (Huququ’llah), without having any authority to do so and in contradiction to the provisions of the sacred Will and Testament of 'Abdu’l-Bahá". It is deemed "illegitimate" because it was "spuriously created by the former Hands of the Cause, without authority" and in "total contradiction" to 'Abdu'l-Bahá's Will and Testament.

Misrepresentation of Tablets:

The "bogus UHJ" in 1972 allegedly used a selectively picked 13-word answer from 'Abdu'l-Bahá's Tablet of Lisan-e-Huzur, which states: "'Disposition of the Huquq, wholly or partly, is permissible, but this should be done by permission of the authority in the Cause'".

It is accused of adding its own words ("to whom all must turn") to the translation and falsely claiming that 'Abdu'l-Bahá referred to the Universal House of Justice as "the authority to whom all must turn".

The sources claim this justification is baseless, as the UHJ "has yet to this day been able to reveal the claimed tablet... or provide any substantiating reference as to its origin" because "no such table exist" and it would contradict 'Abdu'l-Bahá's Will and Testament, which designates "Guardian of the Cause of God" as "the authority to whom all must turn".

Lack of Financial Transparency: The UHJ is criticized for not providing "any annual or periodic bill" for the "large and frequent amounts received as donations, compensation, Huququ’llah, properties of the heirless deceased, etc., from Baha’is worldwide" over more than 50 years. This "lack of transparency" leads to "severe mistrust" and accusations of "misappropriation of funds" for administrative expansion, staff salaries, or unnecessary expenses, rather than for public welfare or charity.

The Current Guardian's Stance: Nosrat’u’llah Bahremand, identified as the Guardian of the Cause of God, "considers that presently it is not obligatory for the Baháʼis to pay Huququ’llah". Baháʼís are encouraged to "investigate the authorized persons and institutions for receipt of the Right of God (Huququ’llah), before committing to any such payment".

Huququ'llah in the Context of Twin Institutions and Succession

The discussion of Huququ'llah is inextricably linked to the legitimacy and continuity of the Baháʼí Twin Institutions, particularly the Guardianship:

Guardianship as the "Sacred Head": 'Abdu'l-Bahá's Will and Testament clearly ordains that "the guardian of the Cause of God is its sacred head and the distinguished member for life of that body" (the Universal House of Justice). The question is posed: "How can a body live without a head?".

Mutilation Without the Guardianship: The sources, quoting Shoghi Effendi, emphasize that "Divorced from the institution of the Guardianship the World Order of Bahá’u’lláh would be mutilated". Without it, the Faith's "integrity... would be imperiled, and the stability of the entire fabric would be gravely endangered".

Obedience to the Guardian: It is "incumbent upon the members of the House of Justice, Upon all the Aghsán, the Afnán, the Hands of the Cause of God to show their obedience, submissiveness and subordination Unto the guardian of the Cause of God". Opposing the Guardian is seen as opposing the True One and creating "a breach in the Cause of God".

Guardianship for Divine Guidance and Purity: The Guardianship ensures "divine guidance flows on to us in this world after the Prophet’s ascension". The absence of a living Guardian is believed to be causing the Faith to "deviate from the truth", leading to "rampant immorality" and "moral failure" within the "Haifan Baha'i Faith" administration and teachers. The lack of a Guardian is perceived as leading to a "loss of hopes in the administrative order" for sincere Baháʼís.

In summary, the sources present Huququ'llah as a sacred financial obligation whose rightful recipient is exclusively the Guardian of the Cause of God, as ordained by 'Abdu'l-Bahá and confirmed by Shoghi Effendi. The current Universal House of Justice is deemed "illegitimate" and unauthorized to collect Huququ'llah due to the absence of a living Guardian, which, according to these sources, fundamentally compromises its legitimacy and adherence to Baháʼí sacred texts.

Baháʼí Line of Succession (Baháʼí Ministries)

Baháʼí Line of Succession (Baháʼí Ministries), framing it as crucial for the integrity and continuity of the Baháʼí Faith, particularly in the context of the Twin Institutions of the Guardianship and the Universal House of Justice (UHJ).

The Established Line of Succession (Baháʼí Ministries)

The Baháʼí Ministries present a direct and continuous line of succession, divinely ordained to safeguard the Faith:

Bahá’u’lláh (1863 - 1892): The Prophet-founder of the Bahá’í Faith. He ordained the Center of the Covenant to prevent differences and schisms, making it impossible for anyone to create a new sect.

‘Abdu’l-Bahá (1892 - 1921): Son of Bahá’u’lláh and His appointed Center of the Covenant. Bahá’u’lláh referred to him as "Him Who hath branched from this mighty Stock" and "the Most Mighty Branch".

Shoghi Effendi (1921 - 1957): Appointed by ‘Abdu’l-Bahá as the First Guardian in his Will and Testament. He is described as "the sign of God, the chosen branch, the guardian of the Cause of God".

Charles Mason Remey (1957 - 1966): Appointed by Shoghi Effendi as the Second Guardian. This appointment is based on Shoghi Effendi's cablegrams regarding Mason Remey's presidency of the International Bahá’í Council, which was seen as an "embryonic International Institution" that would "effloresce into Universal House of Justice". The sources state that "Presidency of the Universal House of Justice (including presidency of its several preliminary and successive active states) and Guardianship are synonymous terms, according to the Testament of ‘Abdu'l-Bahá," making Remey "his chosen successor- the second Guardian of the Faith".

Joel Bray Marangella (1966 - present): Appointed by Mason Remey as the Third Guardian through a sealed letter dated December 5, 1961. He was also appointed President of the second International Bahá’í Council.

Nosrat’u’llah Bahremand: Identified in a 2015 post by Mark V. Marangella as "the Guardian of the Cause of God, the Center of the Cause". This suggests a continuation of the Guardianship through him by the "Orthodox Baháʼí Faith" adherents.

The Twin Institutions and the Role of Succession

The sources emphasize that the Guardianship and the Universal House of Justice are twin institutions, divine in origin, essential in function, and complementary in purpose. They are designated as "chosen Successors" to Bahá’u’lláh and ‘Abdu’l-Bahá, tasked with applying principles, promulgating laws, protecting institutions, and adapting the Faith to societal requirements. This system of succession, particularly the "twin institutions," offers "irrefutable evidences of Divine Guidance" and forms the "strength of the unity of the Faith," distinguishing the Baháʼí Revelation from others.

A cornerstone of this administrative order is the explicit decree by ‘Abdu’l-Bahá that "the guardian of the Cause of God is its sacred head and the distinguished member for life of that body" (the Universal House of Justice). This connection is considered indispensable:

The Guardianship enhances the prestige of the UHJ, stabilizes its supreme position, safeguards its unity, and ensures the continuity of its work.

It provides the "necessary guidance to define the sphere of the legislative action of its elected representatives [UHJ]".

"Divorced from the institution of the Guardianship the World Order of Bahá’u’lláh would be mutilated", its integrity imperiled, and its stability gravely endangered.

Obedience, submissiveness, and subordination to the Guardian are incumbent upon members of the House of Justice, the Aghsán, the Afnán, and the Hands of the Cause of God. The Guardian, however, "cannot override the decision of the majority of his fellow-members" but can insist on reconsideration of enactments he believes conflict with Bahá’u’lláh’s utterances.

The Orthodox Baháʼí Critique of the Current Universal House of Justice

The "North-East Indian Baha'is" sources present a strong critique of the mainstream Baháʼí Faith's administrative order, specifically asserting that the current Universal House of Justice is "illegitimate" and "bogus". This stance is fundamentally rooted in the belief that the Guardianship is a continuing, living institution and that the current UHJ operates without its "sacred head".

Key points of this critique include:

Absence of a Guardian: The "large body of Bahá'ís" does not believe in a living Guardian today. This is seen as a direct violation of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá's Will and Testament, which designates the Guardian as the "sacred head" of the UHJ. The question is posed: "How can a body live without a head?".

Spurious Creation: The current UHJ is accused of being "spuriously created by the former Hands of the Cause, without authority and in total contradiction to the provisions of the Will and Testament of 'Abdu’l-Bahá". A legitimate Universal House of Justice, according to this view, can only be established "in the future and in due time, in accordance to the provisions of the Will and Testament of 'Abdu’l-Bahá".

Non-compliance with the Will and Testament: Several instructions from ‘Abdu’l-Bahá's Will and Testament are cited as not being followed due to the absence of a Guardian, such as the Hands of the Cause electing nine persons to serve the Guardian, and the general requirement of obedience to the Guardian.

Deviation from the Truth: The presence of a living Guardian is considered essential to "keep us from deviating from the truth" and to "guide all the peoples of the world". Without a Guardian, it is feared that the Faith is "already deviating" from God's immutable purpose.

Illegitimate Collection of Huququ'llah (Right of God):

‘Abdu’l-Bahá's Will and Testament, and Shoghi Effendi, clearly state that "only the Guardian is the right authority of the Cause, and the Guardians will be the sole lawful recipients of the Huququ’llah".

The "illegitimate UHJ" is accused of "wrong doing" by demanding and collecting Huququ’llah without authority. It allegedly used a selectively picked 13-word answer from a Tablet by 'Abdu’l-Bahá, adding its own words to claim authority, but has failed to provide substantiating references.

Nosrat’u’llah Bahremand, identified as the Guardian, is stated to consider the payment of Huququ’llah "not obligatory for the Bahá’is" presently.

There is a criticism of lack of transparency from the UHJ regarding the large sums received, leading to accusations of misappropriation for administrative expansion and salaries, rather than public welfare.

Moral Failures and Loss of Faith: The "Haifan Baha'i Faith" (referring to the mainstream administration) is criticized for "rampant immorality" and "moral failure" among its teachers and key administration members (counselors, NSA members), with examples of divorce and sexual misconduct. The administration is accused of "overlook[ing] it and show[ing] love to her" in cases of disgrace, while simultaneously focusing on collecting Huququ’llah. This is contrasted with Shoghi Effendi's instruction for National Assemblies to take "immediate action" to protect the Faith and deprive offenders of voting rights to preserve purity. Such issues, combined with the absence of a Guardian, have led some sincere Baháʼís to lose "hopes in the administrative order".

In essence, these sources strongly argue that the divinely ordained line of succession, culminating in a continuous Guardianship, is paramount for the legitimacy and spiritual health of the Baháʼí Faith and its administrative institutions, particularly the Universal House of Justice. The absence of a recognized Guardian is presented as a fundamental flaw leading to the illegitimacy of the current mainstream UHJ and various administrative and moral issues.

The Universal House of Justice as a Twin Institution

View of the Universal House of Justice (UHJ) within the Baháʼí Faith

The Universal House of Justice is unequivocally stated to be a divine institution, twin to the Guardianship, both essential in their functions and complementary in their aim and purpose. These twin institutions were appointed by Bahá’u’lláh and ‘Abdu’l-Bahá as their chosen successors. Their fundamental object is to ensure the continuity of divinely-appointed authority, safeguard the unity of followers, maintain the integrity and flexibility of the Faith's teachings, and administer its laws. They are designed to apply principles, promulgate laws, protect institutions, adapt the Faith to societal requirements, and consummate the inheritance of the Faith's founders.

Inseparable and Complementary Roles: The UHJ and the Guardianship are described as "inseparable institutions" that act in conjunction to administer the Faith's affairs, coordinate activities, promote its interests, execute its laws, and defend subsidiary institutions. While each operates within its own defined sphere of jurisdiction, their powers, authority, rights, and prerogatives are not contradictory but supplement each other's functions and are fundamentally united in their aims.

Distinguishing Feature of the Baháʼí Revelation: The administrative provisions and the matter of succession, as embodied in the twin institutions of the House of Justice and the Guardianship, offer "irrefutable evidences of Divine Guidance" that distinguish the Baháʼí Revelation and form the "strength of the unity of the Faith". Neither the Christian nor Islamic Dispensations offer a parallel system or safeguards for preservation and advancement.

Election and Value: The Universal House of Justice "must be elected by universal suffrage". Its ultimate value will only be fully realized by future generations.

The Universal House of Justice in Relation to the Guardianship

A central theme in the sources is the indispensable link between the UHJ and the Guardianship:

The Guardian as its "Sacred Head": 'Abdu'l-Bahá decreed that the "guardian of the Cause of God is its sacred head and the distinguished member for life of that body".

Role of the Guardian for the UHJ: The Guardianship is stated to enhance the prestige of the Universal House of Justice, stabilize its supreme position, safeguard its unity, and assure the continuity of its labors. Crucially, the Guardian provides the "necessary guidance to define the sphere of the legislative action of its elected representatives".

Interplay of Authority: While the Guardian "cannot override the decision of the majority of his fellow-members" in the UHJ, he "is bound to insist upon a reconsideration by them of any enactment he conscientiously believes to conflict with the meaning and to depart from the spirit of Bahá’u’lláh’s revealed utterances".

Indispensability of Guardianship: Shoghi Effendi emphasized that "divorced from the institution of the Guardianship the World Order of Bahá’u’lláh would be mutilated" and its integrity imperiled. Without a Guardian, the stability of the entire fabric of the Faith would be gravely endangered, its prestige would suffer, and the means to take a long, uninterrupted view over generations would be lacking.

Succession and the Orthdox Baháʼí Perspective on the Current UHJ

The sources from "North-East Indian Baha'is" highlight a significant divergence in understanding regarding the current state of the UHJ and the Guardianship, advocating for what they term the "Orthodox Bahá'í Faith."

The Chain of Succession: The sources present a direct line of succession: Bahá’u’lláh appointed ‘Abdu’l-Bahá, ‘Abdu’l-Bahá appointed Shoghi Effendi as the First Guardian, Shoghi Effendi appointed Charles Mason Remey as the Second Guardian, and Mason Remey appointed Joel Bray Marangella as the Third Guardian. This line implies a continuous, living Guardianship.

Illegitimacy of the Current Universal House of Justice:

Absence of a Guardian: The "Orthodox Bahá'í" view asserts that the "large body of Bahá'ís don't believe this to be true" that there is a living Guardian today. This is seen as a fundamental problem, because if there is no Guardian, then there is "no sacred head" for the UHJ, questioning "How can a body live without a head?". This is believed to cause the Faith to deviate from the truth, as the Guardian is meant to keep it from doing so.

Spurious Creation: It is argued that the current Universal House of Justice is "illegitimate" and "bogus," having been "spuriously created by the former Hands of the Cause, without authority and in total contradiction to the provisions of the Will and Testament of 'Abdu’l-Bahá". The Will and Testament clearly ordains the Guardian as its "sacred head and the distinguished member for life of that body". A legitimate Universal House of Justice, according to this view, will only be established "in the future and in due time, in accordance to the provisions of the Will and Testament of 'Abdu’l-Bahá".

Non-Compliance with Will and Testament: The absence of a Guardian means that several instructions from 'Abdu'l-Bahá's Will and Testament cannot be followed, such as the Hands of the Cause electing nine persons to serve the Guardian, or the general obedience due to the Guardian.

Controversy over Huququ'llah (Right of God):

Guardian's Sole Authority: 'Abdu'l-Bahá's Will and Testament explicitly states that "only the Guardian is the right authority of the Cause, and the Guardians will be the sole lawful recipients of the Huququ’llah". Shoghi Effendi confirmed that "the Huquq goes only to the Guardian".

Illegitimate Collection by UHJ: The "illegitimate UHJ" is accused of "wrong doing" by demanding and collecting Huququ’llah without authority, in contradiction to the Will and Testament. It allegedly used a selectively picked 13-word answer from a Tablet by 'Abdu’l-Bahá in 1972, adding its own words to claim authority, but has failed to provide substantiating references for this claim, as no such tablet is believed to exist. The "authority to whom all must turn" regarding Huququ'llah is asserted to be the Guardian, not the UHJ.

Current Guardian's Stance: Nosrat’u’llah Bahremand, identified as the current Guardian, considers that paying Huququ’llah is "not obligatory for the Bahá’is" presently.

Lack of Transparency: The UHJ is criticized for not providing annual financial reports for donations, Huququ’llah, and other funds received, leading to accusations of misappropriation for bureaucratic expansion and salaries rather than public welfare or the promotion of the word of God.

Moral Failures and Administrative Order: The "Haifan Baha'i Faith" (implicitly its administration) is criticized for "rampant immorality" and "moral failure" among its teachers and key administration members (counselors, NSA members), with examples including widespread divorce and sexual misconduct. The administration is accused of "overlook[ing] it and show[ing] love to her" in cases of disgrace, while simultaneously focusing on collecting Huququ’llah. This is contrasted with Shoghi Effendi's instruction for National Assemblies to take "immediate action" to protect the Faith and deprive offenders of voting rights to preserve purity. This perceived moral failing and lack of proper administrative action, combined with the absence of a Guardian, has led to a loss of faith in the administrative order among some sincere Baháʼís.

Moral Crisis and Succession in the Baha'i Faith

The sources emphasize the central and divinely ordained role of the Guardianship within the Baháʼí Faith, particularly in conjunction with the Universal House of Justice, forming what are referred to as the "twin institutions". These institutions are considered divine in origin, essential in their functions, and complementary in their aim and purpose.

Here's a breakdown of what the sources say about Guardianship, its relationship with the Universal House of Justice, and the broader context of Baháʼí succession:

The Twin Institutions of Guardianship and the Universal House of Justice

Divine Origin and Purpose: Bahá’u’lláh, the Prophet of this age, and His Son, ‘Abdu’l-Bahá, the Center of the Covenant, unequivocally appointed these twin institutions as their successors. Their fundamental object is to ensure the continuity of divinely-appointed authority, safeguard the unity of followers, and maintain the integrity and flexibility of the Faith's teachings. They are destined to apply principles, promulgate laws, protect institutions, adapt the Faith to societal requirements, and consummate the founders' inheritance.

Complementary and Inseparable Roles: The Guardianship and the Universal House of Justice (UHJ) are described as inseparable institutions that act in conjunction to administer the Faith's affairs, coordinate activities, promote interests, execute laws, and defend subsidiary institutions. Each operates within a clearly defined sphere of jurisdiction, equipped with its own instruments for discharging responsibilities. Their powers, authority, rights, and prerogatives are not contradictory but supplement each other's authority and functions, being permanently and fundamentally united in their aims.

Distinguishing Feature: The administrative provisions and the matter of succession, as embodied in these twin institutions, provide "irrefutable evidences of Divine Guidance" that distinguish the Baháʼí Revelation and form the "strength of the unity of the Faith". Neither the Christian nor Islamic Dispensations offer a parallel to this system or its safeguards for preservation and advancement.

The Role and Importance of Guardianship

Source of Divine Guidance: After the Prophet's ascension, divine guidance flows through 'Abdu'l-Bahá (the Master) and then the Guardians. Shoghi Effendi, the First Guardian, stated that the "mighty stronghold shall remain impregnable and safe through obedience to him who is the Guardian of the Cause of God".

Head of the Universal House of Justice: The Guardian is designated as the "sacred head and the distinguished member for life" of the Universal House of Justice. He enhances the prestige and stabilizes the supreme position of the UHJ, safeguards its unity, assures the continuity of its labors, and provides "necessary guidance to define the sphere of the legislative action of its elected representatives".

Indispensable for Faith's Integrity: According to Shoghi Effendi, divorced from the institution of the Guardianship, the World Order of Bahá’u’lláh would be "mutilated," its integrity imperiled, and the stability of its entire fabric gravely endangered. The Guardianship provides the "hereditary principle" upheld by the Law of God and enables a long, uninterrupted view over generations.

Guardian's Authority and Limitations: While members of the House of Justice, Aghsán (His sons), Afnán (the Báb's kindred), and the Hands of the Cause of God are incumbent to show obedience, submissiveness, and subordination to the Guardian, the Guardian "cannot override the decision of the majority of his fellow-members". However, he "is bound to insist upon a reconsideration by them of any enactment he conscientiously believes to conflict with the meaning and to depart from the spirit of Bahá’u’lláh’s revealed utterances".

Succession of Guardians

Appointment by Predecessor: 'Abdu'l-Bahá's Will and Testament stipulates that the Guardian of the Cause of God is incumbent to appoint his successor during his own lifetime to prevent differences after his passing. If the firstborn descendant does not manifest spiritual truth or a goodly character, the Guardian must choose another branch to succeed him.

Line of Succession Presented in Sources:

Bahá’u’lláh (Prophet-founder, 1863-1892)

‘Abdu’l-Bahá (Son of Bahá’u’lláh, Center of the Covenant, 1892-1921) – Appointed by Bahá’u’lláh.

Shoghi Effendi (First Guardian, 1921-1957) – Appointed by ‘Abdu’l-Bahá.

Charles Mason Remey (Second Guardian, 1957-1966) – Appointed by Shoghi Effendi. Shoghi Effendi's cablegrams regarding the formation of the International Bahá’í Council (an "embryonic International Institution" that would effloresce into the Universal House of Justice) indicated Mason Remey as its President, and since "Presidency of the Universal House of Justice (including presidency of its several preliminary and successive active states) and Guardianship are synonymous terms," this appointment made Remey the Second Guardian.

Joel Bray Marangella (Third Guardian, 1966-present) – Appointed by Charles Mason Remey on December 5, 1961.

Controversies and Criticisms Regarding the Current State of Guardianship and UHJ

The sources from "North-East Indian Baha'is" present strong criticisms against what they refer to as the "Haifan Baha'i Faith" and its Universal House of Justice:

Lack of a Living Guardian (Mainstream vs. Source's View): A significant point of contention highlighted is that "the large body of Bahá'ís don't believe this to be true" that there is a living Guardian today. This is viewed by the authors of the sources as a deviation from the Will and Testament of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá, which states that the Guardian is necessary to keep the Faith from deviating from the truth. Without a Guardian, the UHJ lacks its "sacred head," and the instructions in the Will and Testament are not being followed.

Illegitimacy of the Current Universal House of Justice: The sources assert that the current Universal House of Justice (UHJ) is "illegitimate," "bogus," and was "spuriously created by the former Hands of the Cause, without authority" and in "total contradiction" to ‘Abdu’l-Bahá’s Will and Testament, which ordained the Guardian as its "sacred head". They contend that a legitimate Universal House of Justice will only be established "in the future and in due time, in accordance to the provisions of the Will and Testament of 'Abdu’l-Bahá".

Huququ'llah (Right of God):

Exclusive Right of the Guardian: The sources state that ‘Abdu’l-Bahá’s Will and Testament clearly specifies that "only the Guardian is the right authority of the Cause, and the Guardians will be the sole lawful recipients of the Huququ’llah". Shoghi Effendi also confirmed that "the Huquq goes only to the Guardian".

Illegitimate Collection by UHJ: The "illegitimate UHJ" is accused of "wrong doing" by demanding and collecting Huququ’llah without authority, in contradiction to the Will and Testament. It allegedly used a selectively picked 13-word answer from a Tablet by ‘Abdu’l-Bahá, adding its own words to claim authority, but has failed to provide substantiating references for this claim.

Current Guardian's Stance: The sources indicate that the current Guardian, Nosrat’u’llah Bahremand, considers that paying Huququ’llah is "not obligatory for the Bahá’is" presently.

Lack of Transparency: The UHJ is criticized for not providing annual financial reports for funds received (donations, Huququ’llah, etc.), leading to accusations of misappropriation for bureaucratic expansion and salaries rather than public welfare.

Rampant Immorality: The "Haifan Baha’i Faith" is criticized for "rampant immorality" and "moral failure" among its teachers and key administration members (counselors, NSA members), despite promoting moral classes through "Ruhi Books". This perceived moral failing, combined with what is seen as a lack of proper administrative action and the absence of a Guardian, has led to a loss of faith in the administrative order among some. Shoghi Effendi's instruction to take "immediate action" to protect the Faith and deprive offenders of voting rights is cited as a contrast to current practices.

In essence, the sources present the Guardianship as a cornerstone of the Baháʼí Administrative Order, divinely appointed to safeguard the Faith's unity and integrity, and as the rightful head of the Universal House of Justice. They then highlight a significant schism, presenting an "Orthodox Bahá'í Faith" perspective that asserts the ongoing lineage of Guardianship and views the current mainstream Universal House of Justice as illegitimate due to its lack of a Guardian and its deviation from foundational laws like the collection of Huququ'llah.