Devotional Poetry

The Mashriqu’l-Adhkár

The Mashriqu’l-Adhkár:
“The Dawning Place of the Mention of God”1

"Build ye houses of worship throughout the lands in the name of Him Who is the Lord of all religions…Then, with radiance and joy, celebrate therein the praise of your Lord, the Most Compassionate."

Bahá’u’lláh

1

Light emanates
from the Temple's central core,
and flows through alabaster petals
to inspire both poet and architect to create
masterpieces reflecting the first element of creation.

2

The physical symbol
of the inner reality,
they are raised to praise
the Living God
and proclaim the Lord's Return.

3

Nine is the symbol of unity,
Proof of God's love for humanity.

4

The first element of creation--
symbolizes God's love for humanity--
is the cohesive force uniting
all religions.

5

Poet's Note: ▼

I began this poem on 16 Jalal 162 B.E. The original inspiration was the Baha'i Lotus Temple in India, however, this poem can be applied to all the Baha'i temples across the planet..

Footnotes
1  https://www.bahai.org/action/devotional-life/mashriqul-adhkar