Universal House of Justice
Bahá'í World Centre
P.O. Box 155
31001 Haifa, Israel
Dearly Beloved Members of the Universal House of Justice,
With utmost humility and respect, I am writing to seek clarification regarding a matter of profound significance that has arisen in my reflections upon the words of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá in the Tablets of the Divine Plan for many years. Specifically, I wish to inquire about applying the prophecy concerning Indigenous peoples in these Sacred Tablets.
In the Tablets of the Divine Plan, Abdu’l-Bahá shares the following remarkable vision, especially considering that this prophecy was given in 1916 when the future of the Indigenous peoples of the Americas seemed utterly doomed.
“Attach great importance to the indigenous population of America. For these souls may be likened unto the ancient inhabitants of the Arabian Peninsula, who, prior to the illumination of Muḥammad, were like savages. When the Muhammadan light shone forth in their midst, they became so enlightened that they illumined the world, and that the fame of their culture, civilization, and refinement spread to all regions. Likewise, were these Indigenous peoples to be educated and guided, there is no doubt that they will become so enlightened that the whole earth will be illumined.”
While Divine Teachings are not explicitly named in this passage, ‘Abdu’l-Bahá compares to the transformation brought about by the Teachings of Muhammad. He explains how the inhabitants of the Arabian Peninsula were "like savages" before the light of the Divine Teachings transformed them, elevating their culture and civilization. This comparison implies that these same Divine Teachings—spiritual principles revealed by Manifestations of the Great Spirit—will guide and enlighten Indigenous peoples, leading to their potential to "illumine the whole earth."
In various other writings, ‘Abdu’l-Bahá refers to Divine Teachings as encompassing the oneness of humanity, the harmony of science and religion, universal education, the elimination of prejudice, and the establishment of justice and unity. These Teachings are essential for the moral and spiritual upliftment of all peoples, and this understanding appears to resonate with the Master's vision for the Indigenous peoples of the Americas.
This powerful prophecy has stirred my heart since I became a Baha'i in 1967. I have long pondered whether this prophecy, as expressed by the beloved Master, applies universally to all the Indigenous peoples of the Americas, regardless of their religious background, or applies only to those Indigenous peoples of the Americas who have embraced the Bahá'í Faith. I have always acted that it does apply to all the Indigenous peoples of the Americas, whether they are currently Baha'is or not.
Given the emphasis in the Tablets of the Divine Plan on the transformative power of the Divine Teachings, I respectfully seek clarification on whether these teachings must be explicitly recognized within the Bahá'í Faith or if they could also encompass the same spiritual principles and wisdom found in the sacred teachings of Indigenous peoples of the Americas and Manifestation of Wakan Tanka. This question is particularly pressing in light of the Bahá’í teachings on the oneness of humanity, the nobility of all peoples, and the sacred purpose of fostering unity in diversity.
Additionally, I respectfully ask: if ‘Abdu’l-Bahá’s prophecy applies to all the Indigenous peoples of the Americas, regardless of their faith, what is their potential role in manifesting the Lesser Peace, given the reality that the Baha'i Faith will not lead this step toward the Most Great Peace? Given the significant emphasis in the Bahá'í teachings on the Lesser Peace as a crucial step toward the Most Great Peace, how may Indigenous peoples contribute to this pivotal moment in human history, particularly in light of their profound connection to Mother Earth and their wisdom based on Divine Teachings?
I am deeply mindful of the importance of this inquiry, as it has significant implications for how Bahá’í’s might approach their relationships with Indigenous nations—whether Bahá'í or not—in fostering the fulfillment of this sacred prophecy. How can we best assist the Indigenous peoples of the Americas in contributing to humankind's spiritual and material advancement in line with this glorious vision?
I would be sincerely grateful for any guidance the Universal House of Justice might provide as I seek to continue contributing to advancing the Indigenous peoples of the Americas and all humanity within the framework of Bahá’u’lláh’s vision for the unity and prosperity of all humankind.
With prayers for your strength and wisdom and with deep love and gratitude for your sacred service,
Hereditary Chief Phil Lane Jr.,
Member of the Ihanktonwan and Chickasaw Nations
White Rock Baha'i Community, British Columbia, Canada
Chairperson
Four Worlds International Institute
Compassion Games International
Member~AISES Council of Elders
Co-Founder~United Religion Initiative (URI)
Member~Evolutionary Leaders
Four Worlds Global Impact Fund
Unite Humanity! Restore Mother Earth!
