h, which all the Prophets
have taught, have been applied to the problems which are facing the world
today--problems of the utmost complexity and difficulty, many of which had
not arisen in the days of former Prophets. It is evident that this full
record of authentic revelation must have a powerful effect in preventing
misunderstandings in the future and in clearing up those misunderstandings
of the past which have kept the various sects asunder.

The Baha'i Covenant

The Baha'i Revelation is unprecedented and unique in still another way.
Before the death of Baha'u'llah He repeatedly put in writing a Covenant
appointing his eldest son 'Abdu'l-Baha, Whom He often refers to as "The
Branch," or "The Most Great Branch," as the authorized interpreter of the
teachings, and declaring that any explanations or interpretations given by
Him are to be accepted as of equal validity with the words of Baha'u'llah
Himself. In His Will and Testament He says:--

Consider that which We revealed in Our Most Holy Book: "When the
ocean of My presence hath ebbed and the Book of My Revelation is
ended, turn your faces toward Him Whom God hath purposed, Who hath
branched from this Ancient Root." The object of this sacred verse
is none other except the Most Mighty Branch ('Abdu'l-Baha).

And in the Tablet of the Branch, in which He explains the station of
'Abdu'l-Baha, He says:--

Render thanks unto God, O people, for His appearance; for verily
He is the most great Favor unto you, the most perfect bounty upon
you; and through Him every mouldering bone is quickened. Whoso
turneth towards Him hath turned towards God, and whoso turneth
away from Him hath turned away from My Beauty, hath repudiated My
Proof, and transgressed against Me.

After the death of Baha'u'llah, 'Abdu'l-Baha had abundant opportunities,
both in His own home and on His extensive travels, of meeting people from
all parts of the world and of all shades of opinion. He heard all their
questions, their difficulties and objections, and gave full explanations
which were carefully recorded in writing. During a long series of years
'Abdu'l-Baha continued this work of elucidating the teachings and showing
their applications to the most varied problems of modern life. Differences
of opinion which have arisen among believers have been referred to Him and
authoritatively settled, and thus the risks of future misunderstandings