BB00685: Letter to Khal-i-Asghar II

Yazd, for the attention of Siyyid 228

He is the Most Exalted, the Most High, the Most Great

For a long time no news hath been received from that region, though the cause is but the heaviness of griefs accumulated. Yet the world possesseth no abiding substance that the transient accidents thereof should sadden the soul of man. God, exalted be His remembrance, hath said: If all things proceed from My decree and destiny, why then this sorrow?

Repeatedly was the journey of visitation, in accordance with the wish of the honoured friends, deferred—but such delay is unworthy, especially amid the press of these worldly afflictions, which have grown most severe upon them. Should it indeed be that further postponement is again intended, the sojourn of that revered one in Yazd would, in divers respects, be preferable. With their permission, let movement be made anew; for the changing of place from one station to another dispelleth somewhat the clouds of sadness. Let them show indulgence toward that soul, for his shortcomings are extreme.

Whatever their mother commandeth concerning the household allowance, let it be given, even if it be the whole thereof; for never, not by a mustard seed’s weight, have I desired or do I now desire her sorrow. May God bestow upon her a bountiful recompense.

These are days when the white death—that is, the pestilence—hath scattered as locusts among the dwellers of the villages. This page is therefore submitted to the honoured mother, that she may hear tidings and not be troubled. After perusal, let it be sent by Bashir to reach her presence, and let those who inquire after my condition—namely, Siyyid 92 and Siyyid 110—and whosoever is not a stranger but of the circle of friends, be kindly remembered.

In any case, let them intimate the essence of what hath transpired, for we say: We are content… and praise be to God, the Lord of the worlds.