Greatest gift

Month, Day: Questions, Dominion (Perfection)

Questions is coming to an end, and there is still so much to consider. Fortunately, the cycles will continue, so we'll see this again.

Now, one question involves looking around for an explanation of what the 'science' might be that it can be compatible with religion. Well, this 'science' would have to arise from human efforts to know God's Creation; as well, it turns out that there are plenty examples from which we could build a definition.

So, what is the gift considered the greatest? Well, our intellect that allows science.

Of course, many views will not allow science to begin with a gift from God. So, part of the discussion here would start to lay out where the audacity to do such a thing is going to be required.

Remarks:

06/11/2009 -- Science and Religion.

Modified: 06/11/2009

We know

Month, Day: Questions, Questions (Independence)

Not only do we know, if we wish to accept it as so, there is an operational aspect that is unerring. One might even say that applied science, in the sense of engineering, uses this all the time. And, notions like dampening and centralizing are part of the knowledge.

On the other hand, even if we do not wish to accept it, it is. That is, the brights may have some limited or temporal influence; lastingness, though, is not impacted.

So, as said before, we know more than one way. And, the continued presence of Writings adds to the basis.

The Hidden Words summarizes what was said to that time: This is that which hath descended from the realm of glory, uttered by the tongue of power and might, and revealed unto the Prophets of old. We have taken the inner essence thereof and clothed it in the garment of brevity, as a token of grace unto the righteous, that they may stand faithful unto the Covenant of God, may fulfill in their lives His trust, and in the realm of spirit obtain the gem of Divine virtue.

The 7V4V combination addresses a lot about phylogeny of ourselves and knowledge.

Collectively, everything else in the Writings is vast, yet kernels are there for our use. How this is so is part of why we have Questions.

Remarks:

05/17/2011 -- Stephen gets press.

05/09/2011 -- We need a constructive re-look.

10/11/2009 -- Will, an operational imperative for science.

06/11/2009 -- Science and Religion.

12/27/2008 - Though we know, it may not appear so to others. That is a conundrum, to say the least. And, we all know that we all do, or can, err.

Also, we are alone in being judged, yet we are expected to team and collaborate. As mentioned, the 7V4V can be used to understand this.

Modified: 05/17/2011

Science by another Name

Month, Day: Questions, Mercy (Justice)

One might say that science has been interloped. Consider what might be an endeavor based upon a topsy-turvy view starting from Creation and what this might allow us to know. That is, a mathematics founded thusly for starters.

SAQ #37: Therefore, reflect that different peoples of the world are revolving around imaginations and are worshipers of the idols of thoughts and conjectures. They are not aware of this; they consider their imaginations to be the Reality which is withdrawn from all comprehension and purified from all descriptions. They regard themselves as the people of Unity, and the others as worshipers of idols; but idols at least have a mineral existence, while the idols of thoughts and the imaginations of man are but fancies; they have not even mineral existence. “Take heed ye who are endued with discernment.”

Remarks:

12/07/2009 -- Motivational musings, especially topology.

Modified: 12/07/2009

Questions and more

Month, Day: Questions, Splendour (Independence)
Month, Day: Questions, Beauty (Beauty)

This is a central theme, especially for science, both operationally and theoretically. Science (as the greatest gift) does not exist without questions.

Now, we have a whole month to contemplate and explore things related to the topic. Of course, one month is not sufficient, but the proper focus can bolster our audacity.

Part of the discussion will look at the growing role of the artificial in terms of what it might mean to us. Notice, for instance, the interests of the brights.

Another part of the discussion will look at how we know, such as through effort or intuitively. We can take this further in an useful way as we look at four ways of acquiring knowledge (SAQ #83) in terms of an operational approach to science. The following are the ways in the order as specified (much significance here).

• Senses - Not only would we need to consider that only a few things are directly available to ourselves, with limits by time and locale, our senses have been augmented in very many ways. In fact, looking at what the artificial (see above) there is really no end to how far we can push this. Though, at some point, any abstraction chain breaks away from reality. Yet, as we have already seen, the human race is capable of seeing far beyond the horizon (to wit, those things supporting cosmology) and beneath surface (that related to physics in the small) and everywhere in-between.
  
• Reason - Which then leads to the way of thought (see below) and, naturally, to mathematics and logic. The limit of reason has been extensively discussed in the last few centuries, but one important concept to remember in this case is quasi-empircisim. In actuality, reason encompasses much more than just thought as we have learned quite well due to our computer prowess.
  
• Tradition - In a sense, this is acquired knowledge as the first two involve more processing. This knowledge would include how the first two are handled and involve a myriad of issues, such as paradigms, practices, etc.
  
• Holy Spirit - Too much to cover here for this brief post, yet consider that the man-in-the-loop emphasis of some complex problem solving techniques make use of this reality, suggesting, of course, borgs and man-bots as we could expect from the 4th Valley.
  

We can also talk about how we tick, so to speak. These two lists can be mapped various ways and relate, to boot, to other Writings, such as the 7V4V. For now, here are the two lists (SAQ #56).

• "Five powers that perceive outer existences" (acknowledging, of course, the realness of existence SAQ #79) - seeing, hearing, smelling, tasting, and feeling
• "Spiritual powers" (see the chain of perception explained) - imagination, thought, comprehension, and memory.
• "Common to the outward and inward" (notice the 4th way of acquiring knowledge, above) - common faculty

This type of exposition can continue all across the Writings. Let's put one more which indicates that in/out and before/after are two intuitions that are of extreme importance.

Remarks:

03/17/2011 -- Just as St. Patrick carried the message, so too ought we act to bring forth a proper viewpoint.

08/16/2009 -- The Operational group is approaching, and ontology is primal. One area of focus, as suggested by this post, will be mind-body studies. Somehow, insights from the Writings ought to have importance, teleological and operational.

05/29/2009 -- The Transcendent baffles.

Modified: 03/17/2011

7 Valleys: True Poverty and Absolute Nothingness

Month, Day: Speech, Will (Justice)

Continuing with the series on the 7 Valleys that has these four entries.

• Search, Love
• Knowledge, Unity
• Contentment, Wonderment
• True Poverty and Absolute Nothingness
  

The original is a meditation from about 12 years ago. Comments are found in italics.

---

True Poverty and Absolute Nothingness --

Again, a big Valley.

Earlier, "camphor" was mentioned earlier in relation to the madonna/child experience. However, for adults, some who meditate know of this.

• Why is it that there is no explicit discipline, within the Faith, oriented to attaining a spiritual life that makes use of "camphor"? Will these arise?
• It may relate to the Cave, see Second Valley page.
  
• However, we are told to pray, reflect, etc.

By the way, the higher brain (neural) activities come into play here, too. Since, only "Ecstasy alone can encompass this theme ... not utterance", we can only be short (Contentment says heart-to-heart).

• Consider, humans can demonstrate flow (physically, mentally, ...) that is extremely effective in which state being is of essence (poverty and nothingness, indeed).
  

But, consider the final part which mentions the chord aspect (single step). The Words on this contain "furthermost" and "first" which may suggest how we might view the 7 and the 4.

• Did I mention topology?
• Science is not, by necessity, heart-less.
  

Remarks:

12/23/2009 -- About the chordal.

Modified: 12/23/2009

7 Valleys: Contentment, Wonderment

Month, Day: Speech, Grandeur (Justice)

Continuing with the series on the 7 Valleys that has these four entries.

• Search, Love
• Knowledge, Unity
• Contentment, Wonderment
• True Poverty and Absolute Nothingness

The original is a meditation from about 12 years ago. Comments are found in italics.

---

Contentment --Contentment says "only heart to heart."

• What does this say about the markings that we use to converse about our findings?

What a short Valley. But, following the theme of ENT, words are handled physically on this side. Yet, we see too that they fall "short."

• Hence, do we have to let the message be between the lines?

The E part of ENT is related to the power of music and words. The Writings mention both of these. Too much misuse of music has wrecked havoc in certain areas. But, that experience can be used as an example of how science and experiment go hand in hand. One way that some one can serve is to be a guinea pig.

• Too many "inner significances" there for any elucidation, even though some views adamantly deny these.

Ah, and the N(ose) knows.
Wonderment --
This is another BIG Valley. Dreams! Along with the model alluded to in these posts is a new way to look at these experiences that can make sense in daily life. We can, many of us, cite interpretation and experience mappings to our own dreams that can occur just on waking, or a few minutes later, or even a few hours to days, all the way to a few years.

• Audacity says to be so bold as to propose the model due to reinforcement via this sign (one of the "signs in men, to the end that philosophers may not deny the mysteries of the life beyond nor belittle that which hath been promised them.")

But, there is always the chance of being the "spider" who cannot snare. How much like water flowing through the fingers are these waves on the ether. However, "reckon thyself only a puny form when within thee the universe is folded?"

• Yes. we must, and can, believe.

Do not the Eyes have it? As a reminder, we cannot propound; how can we when we get "flung into confusion" and "lost in awe at the works" and ...?

• What is there, in terms of attitude, that could be called more scientific?

Remarks:

01/25/2012 -- Yes, still at it. Ready to be more audacious. What we're looking for has to do with mind; at some point, it will be allowed by science that we can observe effects (actually, predict, to boot - one step forward will be a more insightful mathematics).

06/05/2009 -- Light very much is something to study in this context.

Modified: 01/25/2012

Belief and delusion

Month, Day: Speech, Beauty (Grace)

Aqdas #183: Say: This is the infallible Balance which the Hand of God is holding, in which all who are in the heavens and all who are on the earth are weighed, and their fate determined, if ye be of them that believe and recognize this truth. Say: This is the Most Great Testimony, by which the validity of every proof throughout the ages hath been established, would that ye might be assured thereof. Say: Through it the poor have been enriched, the learned enlightened, and the seekers enabled to ascend unto the presence of God.

So, if we choose to believe, then the Pascal challenge is fulfilled (that is, for us, there is the other side). We can take this a step further such that there can be knowledge and certainty despite the misgivings of the Brights, et al.

Audacity, then, becomes the mode, as, there are operational effects that we'll be able to demonstrate.

Some modern views (such as those represented by Dawkins, see The God Delusion) ought to be seen as very instructive to us in this regard. All arguments ought to be read and understood within their own framework.

There is much to consider, and the SAQ is a good place to start.

Too, it may be that what may appear as delusional may very well have substance behind it. That is something that cannot be addressed by science without a little paradigmatic shift. Of course, one question would be whether such a shift would have value.

Depends upon to whom you talk, in part.

Remarks:

01/25/2012 -- Yes, still at it. Ready to be more audacious. What we're looking for has to do with mind; at some point, it will be allowed by science that we can observe effects (actually, predict, to boot - one step forward will be a more insightful mathematics).

05/17/2011 -- Stephen gets press.

05/09/2011 -- We need a constructive re-look.

12/05/2010 -- Is it not true that extreme positions on the axis of the mindful can lead to a god-like state-fulness?

11/16/2010 -- What can science know?

09/06/2009 -- Essentially, more is undecidable than we like to admit, basically due to our talent for success (ergodicity, essentially) keeps the hubris refreshed (generation by generation).

05/29/2009 -- The Transcendent baffles.

05/06/2009 --We need to consider the contributions of the autodidact who has escaped abandonment.

Modified: 01/25/2011

7 Valleys: Knowledge, Unity

Month, Day: Speech, Glory (Perfection)

Continuing with the series on the 7 Valleys that has these four entries.

• Search, Love
• Knowledge, Unity
• Contentment, Wonderment
• True Poverty and Absolute Nothingness
  

The original is a meditation from about 12 years ago. Comments are found in italics.

---

Knowledge --

• “And thus did we show Abraham the Kingdom of the Heavens and of the Earth, that He might be established in knowledge.”

Unity --

Unity is where the heart, lungs, and the solar plexus have established themselves. Also as we get to the 7th and talk of camphor, consider how spiritually unified must be the infant/mother link (Hidden Words #29, Persian).

• Both of the genders have the opportunity to partake of such a sacramental union.

What else does Unity give us? Well, intellectually, it is full of ideas for the modern mind. We see some inklings about topology, for instance; and there is an emphasis on 4.

• First/last is just ripe with significances related to the arguments of "intuitionism" in the philosophy of mathematics.
  
• Seen/hidden has much to do with views that can come out of category theory. This is further seen as an important issue in computer science.

Yet, such associations being mentioned by no means should be taken as leave to put trivial bounds on these 4. Putting words to concepts, and linking them to known phenomenon, somehow begins to put bounds on usage and makes us begin to filter out what could be very important aspects. Soon, these filtered out things are denied.

• Is this not what happens with any socialization, e.g. the attainment of scientific knowledge?
• Look at the message on how our perceptions can differ (paragraphs 2-7).

Valley accounts for a whole lot of Words from the Bahá’u’lláh. We see '' [], (], [), and () ", for instance. We see the 4 Loves, as another example. And, finally, "build thou a fire and burn all thoughts and words entire." As you ponder this, think about how the quantitative (to date, that is, as this is going to change) basis of mathematics pulls one down to fewer, more dense words.

• What we need is to get back up to those more ethereal regions, with audacity.
• How can this be done without the Writings?

---

Modified: 12/03/2008

7 Valleys: Search, Love

Month, Day: Speech, Splendour (Glory)

This evening starts Speech, without which we could not communicate.

Yesterday, closed out Power by starting to look at the 7 Valleys.

Through time, these Seven will be visited again: Search, Love, Knowledge, Unity, Contentment, Wonderment, True Poverty and Absolute Nothingness

We'll start with Search and Love. The original is a meditation from about 12 years ago. Comments are found in italics.

----------------

Search --

Start with your little toe, consider your glorious self as you have never before and see how your "feet" help you in your Search. It's interesting that we ended up out of the water. Many things would be something entirely different if we were still aquatic. Such as, if that was where we had stopped, we would not have known the opportunity to ponder the mysteries of air (or the qualities of the refinement).

• Our love of abstraction comes from the refinement
  

Love --

Now, Love is obviously associated (in parts) with our reproductive apparati. However, a look to within a living human body, opened to support an exploratory (pre a few technological advances) view is interesting. Yes, hands-on experience of such an intrusive search can be enlightening.

The female organs reach upward toward the heart, in a manner that I find hard to not equate with Knowledge. Whereas, the male is more dust oriented, dragging.

Now, some bio-wags might argue about temperature issues for the particular gamete on that side. Sure. But, looking from Love, one can go up or down. And any observer of the human condition can see the difference.

Let's try to put a spiritual face to it (sorry, gents, you have further to go in order to just break even).

• Love covers a lot of ground, would we not expect this from Search? Issues related to Anima/Animus.
  

---

Modified: 12/03/2008

Seven Valleys

Month, Day: Power, Loftiness (Beauty)

Tomorrow starts Speech, without which we could not communicate.

As Power winds down, we may want to look at a peaceful Power, such as we see with Sufi. The Seven Valleys is a good place to start.

Here is something resurrected from about 12 years ago.
---------------------------------------------
Respectful look at the 7 Valleys from a Sci/Rel view.
---------------------------------------------

Sublime ---
    Search -  ( ... long time coming ... ) 
    Love -  ( ... and how ... ) 
    Knowledge -  (Abraham - established in Knowledge) 
    Unity -  (Moses ... ) 
    Contentment -  (Jesus ... ) 
    Wonderment -  (Muhammad ...) 
    True Poverty and
             Absolute Nothingness -  (Bab ...)

---------------------------------------

Search -  ( ... long time coming ... ) 

feet, do your walking!; we intimately know how to move
bipedally in the material; "patience" and nor "should he ever
be downhearted" even if  "he strive for a hundred thousand years"
and "yet fail ... he should not falter"; "realm of being";
... much more, groundings, folks

Love -  ( ... and how ... ) 

gonads for the gents, elimination; what?, remember the
Woody Allen movie with "Sex" in the title, the sperm's viewpoint,
hilarious; even birth is an elimination of a matured (relative)
genetically-based system; of course, there is the waste
aspect we're all familiar with; ...

Sorry. Now let's get more sublime.

"the steed ... is pain"; "forsake thine outward eyes" for
"the eye of thine inward being"; "set thy foot into the
land of the lovers"; (notice the connection to the former Valley)
... much more, toward the inner

Knowledge -  (Abraham - established in Knowledge) 

gonads for the ladies; digestives; ...

More sublimely: "inner eyes will open"; "witnesseth the
mysteries of resurrection"; ah, the story of the lover;
"for these have passed over the world of names, and fled
beyond the world of attributes as swift as lightning";
"... the last plane of limitation";
... much more, notice the prediction of the nuclear age

Unity -  (Moses ... ) 

thoracic, heart, mammary (these migrated up in evolution);
"drinketh from the cup of the Absolute"; "heaven of
singleness"; "It is clear ... variations ... proceed
from his vision"; various remarks about being "veiled"
in your sight;
... and much more, not only the mams, think of how we
"unify" via the actions of our hands, ...

Contentment -  (Jesus ... ) 

ENT; ... "songs and secrets" ... *** but
"pen steppeth not", "only heart to heart can speak ... knowers"

Wonderment -  (Muhammad ...) 

vision; "the dream" ... "signs ... of the life beyond",
"bind not thy heart to the earth"

True Poverty and
 Absolute Nothingness -  (Bab ...)

cortex; ... "alas, He hath come to the town of the blind"

-----------------------------------------------------
Now, let's be teleological and look at these Valleys, starting with Search/Love, then Knowledge, Unity, Contentment, Wonderment, True Poverty and Absolute Nothingness.
-----------------------------------------------------

Remarks: Modified: 04/09/2016

04/09/2016 -- We had a triple day, earlier, due to the new definitions.

Dominion of Power

Month, Day: Power, Dominion (Independence)

One thing that an audacious approach will have to do is look at juxtapositions and to make these as acceptable as superpositions (et al).

We can start by listing, and starting some description of, categories and properties. In other words, an explanatory (mind you, not interpretative) effort will be required.

But, one fun way to start might be just to list areas that are apropos, and perhaps speculate (let's say, it's science fiction in the beginning). In the meantime, a couple of references are in order.

So, for number one, we'll use the dominion of power. As we see in SAQ #66: Some think that the body is the substance and exists by itself, and that the spirit is accidental and depends upon the substance of the body, although, on the contrary, the rational soul is the substance, and the body depends upon it.

And, again, from SAQ #66: The rational soul—that is to say, the human spirit—has neither entered this body nor existed through it; so 240 after the disintegration of the composition of the body, how should it be in need of a substance through which it may exist? On the contrary, the rational soul is the substance through which the body exists.

So much to say on this, Speech starts on 11/23.

Now, Power to one type of mind means guns and battleships, or the proverbial kick-em hard mindset. If we look around, we'll see that all cultures have their hawks and doves, to use a common metaphor.

The December Smithsonian Magazine has an article on the Sufi. It even juxtaposes them to the Taliban. Well, we know that the latter are hard-nosed authoritarians.

What are the former? Well, we would need to look at the 7 Valleys (actually, start at Unity and go upward) to get an idea.

Sufi is the antithesis of the hard-nosed.

Modified: 11/22/2008

Real Light

Month, Day: Power, Speech (Perfection)
For awhile, we'll let the Brights topics unfold as they may but with sufficient side-trips to be interesting and audacious. That is, there are many things that a Baha'i can ponder without any need for apologetics.

Each month has a day related to the Attribute of Light. So, we can expect to have periodic reflection on the topic so as to consider the myriad of possible aspects that are involved.

One audacious act is to know that the Light is a central theme in so many ways. Let's just name a couple. For one, the web/computer framework that is behind this blog's presentation is very much evidence of the operational effectiveness of our understanding of the physical phenomena of Light. Could we know more? Or, ought we know more? Certainly. We are exploiting, in the case of the WWW, electro-magnetics in both the large and in the small. But, potential deleterious properties may very well require some spiritual insight.

Which brings up the second subject, namely the dream as characterized in the Valley of Wonderment of the Seven Valleys. Consider that science actually extends beyond the grave. That is, the quest to know God and Creation has no limit. Since time and space are limits, then from whence would come any restrictions on scope. So, that would mean that tools would be common, too boot, say, like the computer.

What would we know more of Light if we did not have the limitations imposed by our natural selves? Gleanings LXXXII "Such a soul provideth, at the bidding of the Ideal King and Divine Educator, the pure leaven that leaveneth the world of being, and furnisheth the power through which the arts and wonders of the world are made manifest."
Remarks:

01/25/2012 -- Yes, still at it. Ready to be more audacious. What we're looking for has to do with mind; at some point, it will be allowed by science that we can observe effects (actually, predict, to boot - one step forward will be a more insightful mathematics).

11/16/2010 -- What can science know?

07/26/2009 -- The Operational times will be fun.

06/05/2009 -- Light very much is something to study in this context.

05/29/2009 -- The Transcendent baffles.

Modified: 01/25/2012

Blinded by the Brights

Month, Day: Power, Might (Majesty)

The web allows a better means for coherent, and broad, presentation on a subject than we have seen before. And, Wikipedia is an example of techniques that are involved with this presentation, yet it is not, necessarily, coherent.

Generally, there is a lot of information which, with the open edit framework, needs scrutiny. That is, the user really needs to be aware of the 'history' of a page.

Nevertheless, there is now a very good collection of material related to the naturalist's views. For instance, we find a description of the Brights movement which lends brainpower to the arguments. In discussions about teleology, the concept of God of the Gaps shows up.

All of the material is full of interesting thoughts that can bear scrutiny from the viewpoint of this blog. Too, we find a link to the free thinkers encyclopedia at which site is a discussion of the top ten arguments for God with a look at the premise and critique, for each.

Now, yesterday, there was mention that cognitive science ought to get some insights from the Writings. We'll touch on that as we go along; at the same time, we'll use the arguments from the Brights as a means to juxtapose their basis against the Writings.

In many cases, there will be a catch-22 moment. Perhaps, a better phrasing is possible; if so, we'll use it. Here is an example: We can listen to arguments against God and His Manifestations and worry about the speaker (just be patient here, as we'll go through the 10-most first before branching off with audacity into the issues related to the philosophy of science), yet we are also told to not look down on the sinner (assuming, of course, some mis-deed could be defined - by various means - one source would be the Ten Commandments, but we would be accused of arguing from authority) as we do not even know our own end (that is, the Writings source says that at the deathbed, the believer could become the unbeliever, and vice versa).

So, what this example catch-22 will tell us is that any of this discussion is only to clarify (mind you, didn't say interpret, etc.) some of the points.

Remarks:

10/17/2012 -- There is a lot to reflect on, about the trip, especially the western loop.

03/30/2012 -- Interesting video on self-transcendence. Pay attention to the last three minutes.

05/17/2011 -- Stephen gets press.

05/09/2011 -- We need a constructive re-look.

11/16/2010 -- What can science know?

10/11/2009 -- Will, an operational imperative for science.

07/07/2009 -- Ought we be thankful for the Brights?

06/05/2009 -- Light very much is something to study in this context.

05/29/2009 -- The Transcendent baffles.

05/06/2009 -- We need to consider the contributions by the autodidact who has escaped abandonment.

11/22/2008 -- One could talk about being as blind as a Bright, but that would not be fair. Despite all the arguments, those who go over eventually find out the truth of the issues brought up by the Brights. Unfortunately, those who have gone over do not have a means, or ought we say no easy means, to tell us what they learned. Yet, that function is performed by the periodic appearance of the Manifestation.

Sufficiency here is provided by the Valley of Wonderment. 
Modified: 10/17/2012

Names and Power

Month, Day: Power, Names (Justice)

For the Twin Days, we have Light of Knowledge (10/20) and Names of Power (11/12).

In terms of how we know, etc., some effort ought to go into understanding cognitive processes using insight from the Writings (SAQ #56); the Science/Religion Principle implies that such studies would be testable to enough extent for utility to those seeking sufficiency through Names

Remarks:

11/23/2009 -- The Great Festivals.

Modified: 11/23/2009

Knowledge and Power

Month, Day: Knowledge, Loftiness (Perfection)

Several recent changes to the Wiki page exhibit audacity. The added topics were: Creation, Nuclear power, and Transmutation of elements. These three joined the former triad of Evolution, Existence of ether, and Life on other planets.

As we know, many things need review in a search for describing sufficiency sufficiently, a difficult, but not impossible, task.

SAQ #65: ... the foundation of success and salvation is the knowledge of God ...

Several potential aspects related to technological development need some attention: borgs (humans augmented with the artificial), clones (humans duplicated, and perhaps, augmented), ...

Knowledge and Questions

Month, Day: Knowledge, Questions (Majesty)

Questions allow us to accumulate and to condition knowledge, thereby being a gift. But, do questions only apply to the second type of knowledge, that which is of effort?

Remarks:

10/17/2012 -- There is a lot to reflect on, about the trip, especially the western loop.

12/26/2011 -- We can ask as it has to do with science.

11/03/2008 -- The first type is epitomized by the Manifestations and those who do not question (Aqdas #161: “He shall not be asked of His doings”). The second is the ordinary intelligence of the rest of us and our artificially intelligent creations.

Modified: 10/17/2012

Knowledge of Knowledge

Month, Day: Knowledge, Knowledge (Perfection)

SAQ #46 deals with a topic related to evolution. We see this: To a man who examines the world of existence what we have said is sufficient.

Yes, we need to look at sufficiency and a related subject, audacity, in terms of re-establishing a framework for a scientifically bolstered worldview that is respectful of the full capability of man.

It may be that a re-look at advancing knowledge over the cycles (as defined by the Manifestations) may very well identify some type of progression with each occurrence. The Writings allude to this (see the Iqan, for example, where concepts related to 'return' are covered).

Part of the continuing analysis would look closely at the ontological basis for mathematics versus intuition, with no implied (or otherwise) claim here that these are disjoint.

Remarks:

05/17/2011 -- Stephen gets press.

05/09/2011 -- We need a constructive re-look.

12/21/2009 -- More on the diagonal or square'd days.

09/06/2009 -- Essentially, more is undecidable than we like to admit, basically due to our talent for success (ergodicity, essentially) keeps the hubris refreshed (generation by generation).

05/29/2009 -- The Transcendent baffles.

Modified: 05/17/2011

Knowledge and Words

Month, Day: Knowledge, Words (Justice)

Words are more than things thought and spoken, ignoring, of course, Words as LOGOS since this is beyond our comprehension. Modern words can be mathematical or computational.

Now, in terms of knowing constructively and with effort, words build upon one another. It's a recursive thing as we saw with Church, Turing, et al. Somehow Creation works similarly, as we see from quasi-empirical analysis. Yet, there is more that will need to be described and applied so as to have an effect on the foundational issues of science and mathematics.

But, the Writings are not constructive in the above sense. Even with the sequences implied in the 7 and 4 Valleys, what the Words do is describe some aspect of Being. To be taken as axiomatic, something else is needed.

That would be a human talent yet to be uncovered.

In total, the Writings are hugely existential and beyond grasp; the wonderful metaphor of the sea is very much apropos.

But are there operational aspects to the Writings that we can apply? Well, there is meditation, prayer and action. It would be interesting to hear about such having direct influence on some scientific ponders.

Are there other uses? Well, given that we are dealing with Creation, one would think so.

Has anyone yet proposed such use successfully?

7V4V: Obey Me and I will make you like unto Myself. I say Be and it Is. You will say Be and it will be.

Remarks:

08/16/2009 -- The Operational group is approaching, and ontology is primal. One area of focus, as suggested by this post, will be mind-body studies. Somehow, insights from the Writings ought to have importance, teleological and operational.

Modified: 08/16/2009

From Whence

Month, Day: Knowledge, Beauty (Glory)

We know that knowledge is from God, and that there are two main ways to know (SAQ).

Humans seems to want one over the other; the science side is constructive, requires work and is testable; on the other side, Revelation is a function of time and is not testable, in the usual sense.

There are many constructs of science to discuss, however the construct named 'meme' can be used for issues related to knowledge, to how generations progress in development, and so forth. Yet, those who postulate the meme cannot bear to accept that God can be part of the equation, to boot.

How? Well, that is our challenge; there are many avenues that are possible, including using the Writings prepositionally (even propositionally, or do we need a different concept for this application issue?).

On the Revelation side, we know that the Manifestation is periodic; between those events, what we might call small 'r' revelation is from the Manifestation. Nevertheless, this more spiritual side needs attention, albeit through action many times. The main challenge is how spirit and science ought to interplay.

For one thing, a new look at mathematics will be on the table. Some statements in the SAQ are very much topological in nature.

Remarks:

12/07/2009 -- Motivational musings, especially topology.

Modified: 12/07/2009

Will and will

Month, Day: Will, Will (Grace)

Ends having means has to do with several things, such as how audacious we might want to be as we go about establishing the basis and more.

We can start by talking about whence comes knowledge.

Remarks:

10/02/2011 -- More on means.

06/25/2011 -- There are also days where the week day and the month day coincide. Like today, Glory, Glory of Mercy. And, tomorrow, Beauty, Beauty of Mercy.

12/21/2009 -- More on the diagonal or square'd days.

10/11/2009 -- Will, an operational imperative for science.

09/26/2009 -- An issue for the Operational view.

06/11/2009 -- Science and Religion.

Modified: 10/01/2011

Ends and means

Month, Day: Will, Grandeur (Grace)
Month, Day: Will, Perfection (Glory)

Aqdas, #160: We have assigned to every end a means for its accomplishment; avail yourselves thereof, and place your trust and confidence in God, the Omniscient, the All-Wise.

This relates to a lot, even to the teleological contributions to evolution.

We can also use it to think about sufficiency.

Remarks:

10/02/2011 -- More on means.

09/26/2009 -- An issue for the Operational view.

12/27/2008 -- We know because of Questions.

11/22/2008 -- What is sufficient to see the means? The ends?

Modified: 10/02/2011

Evolution

Month, Day: Might, Dominion (Majesty)

SAQ #50 puts the proper wrinkle: All that we can say is that this terrestrial globe at one time did not exist, and at its beginning man did not appear upon it. But from the beginning which has no beginning, to the end which has no end, a Perfect Manifestation always exists. This Man of Whom we speak is not every man; we mean the Perfect Man. For the noblest part of the tree is the fruit, which is the reason of its existence. If the tree had no fruit, it would have no meaning. Therefore, it cannot be imagined that the worlds of existence, whether the stars or this earth, were once inhabited by the donkey, cow, mouse and cat, and that they were without man! This supposition is false and meaningless. The word of God is clear as the sun.

One can think of the ways that evolution was influenced spiritually; though, we are not to look back too far (4th point); that is, the progressive unfolding of the Manifestations has physical impacts.

Is not studying these to be part of science (broader connotation, of course)?

Remarks:

01/25/2011 -- What would be a comprehensive view of this phenomenon?

01/26/2010 -- Of note: Twin duties, Free will, Return, Operational time.

08/16/2009 -- The Operational group is approaching, and ontology is primal. One area of focus, as suggested by this post, will be mind-body studies. Somehow, insights from the Writings ought to have importance, teleological and operational.

05/29/2009 -- The Transcendent baffles.

Modified: 01/25/2011

Ether by any other name

Month, Day: Might, Names (Grace)

In SAQ #48, we see a reference to ether: If we wish to deny everything that is not sensible, then we must deny the realities which unquestionably exist. For example, ethereal matter is not sensible, though it has an undoubted existence. The power of attraction is not sensible, though it certainly exists. From what do we affirm these existences? From their signs. Thus this light is the vibration of that ethereal matter, and from this vibration we infer the existence of ether.

Some apologize for this use of the word. Why? Well, using it nowadays opens one up to much derision.

But, consider that `Abdu'l-Bahá may have known about that which he was talking. SAQ #48 explains the differences between plants and animals, as well as those between animals and man. Earlier, in SAQ #16, concern was raised about how symbols are required "to convey intellectual conceptions" which 'ether' in a sense is, a symbol, that is.

Lately, the Economist used 'ether' in a review of Frank Wilczek's book; the Economist had this to say about what Wilczek calls a 'grid': "What is perceived as empty space turns out to be a new kind of ether, a patchwork of quantum fields teeming with spontaneous activity, and the fundamental building block of nature."

The wit of the Economist notwithstanding, there are many other expositions, based upon very respectable worldviews, that dance around this subject that was briefly covered in SAQ #48; actually, no apology is necessary.

Remarks:

08/01/2012 --Ether, in a manner that is unavoidably true. Our task? Show how to handle the matter from a scientific (the wise interpretation, okay?) framework. And, audacity is not necessary.

01/25/2012 -- Yes, still at it. Ready to be more audacious. What we're looking for has to do with mind; at some point, it will be allowed by science that we can observe effects (actually, predict, to boot - one step forward will be a more insightful mathematics).

08/23/2009 -- I'll make it a little stronger. `Abdu'l-Bahá knew what he was talking about (SAQ #48): For example, ethereal matter is not sensible, though it has an undoubted existence. This is fairly definite.

06/05/2009 -- Light very much is something to study in this context.

11/17/2008 -- Consider Light and other topics for an extended science.

Modified: 08/01/2012

Mercy of Might

Month, Day: Might, Mercy (Glory)

From the Tablet of the Seven Questions (Lawḥ-i-Haft Pursish) p3.8: If thou desirest to be freed from affliction, recite thou this prayer which hath been revealed by the Pen of the All-Merciful: “O God, my God! I testify to Thy unity and to Thy oneness. I beseech Thee, O Thou Possessor of names and Fashioner of the heavens, by the pervasive influence of Thine exalted Word and the potency of Thy supreme Pen, to aid me with the ensigns of Thy power and might, and to protect me from the mischief of Thine enemies who have violated Thy Covenant and Thy Testament. Thou art, verily, the Almighty, the Most Powerful.” This invocation is an impregnable stronghold and an indomitable army. It conferreth protection and ensureth deliverance.

Some may see the use of Might and Mercy together as a contradiction, however there are several ways of looking at these two. For instance, why would not the epitome of Might show Mercy? Would not a solely destructive Might be anathema to any type of progression or construction (sorry for bordering on the tautological)?

One place where Mercy is not shown is in science (or, scientism, if you would), and this probably goes along with the strong leaning toward evolution and what it entails in conceptual terms, such as the notions like 'the survival of the fittest and others. Even in mathematics, many get the idea that a single false case can completely trash a theorem; generally, the more constructive attitudes allow that errors can be corrected and weaknesses shored up.

But, in the winner-take-all framework of the modern age, any would have to be fairly audacious when venturing outside the mainstream of thought, indomitable indeed. Of course, questions about operational foundations and methods would continue, hopefully augmented by UHJ participation in establishing the proper philosophical view. And, do we not know that there will be more Manifestations?

Remarks:

08/14/2009 -- We're starting the Operational, soon.

Modified: 08/14/2009

True wealth

Month, Day: Might, Glory (Grace)

The last post mentioned that a major focus of the world is 'pocket lining' which applies even to an egocentric attitude in science.

SAQ #15 discusses this topic of true wealth including defining this for the plant and the animal.

For humans, wealth does not involve acquisition of lofty assets or of statuesque accumulations, rather true wealth concerns: the divine appearances, the heavenly bounties, the sublime emotions, the love and knowledge of God; universal wisdom, intellectual perception, scientific discoveries, justice, equity, truthfulness, benevolence, natural courage and innate fortitude; the respect for rights and the keeping of agreements and covenants; rectitude in all circumstances; serving the truth under all conditions; the sacrifice of one’s life for the good of all people; kindness and esteem for all nations; obedience to the teachings of God; service in the Divine Kingdom; the guidance of the people, and the education of the nations and races.

Questions, again

Month, Day: Names, Questions (Justice)

Earlier, there were posts related to the ubiquity of Questions (as the BASIS for science), to the fact that we cannot be thankful enough for the gift, and to associated ways and methods. As an aside in the discussions about the Writings and science, we can point out numerous items that relate directly; even if we did not want to consider a direct tie, there is still the issue that the item is relevant to defining some 'value' position that is more than mere relativism.

An example deals with the continual strife for pocket lining, as a few accumulate mountains of assets while the many are without. How can that be?, is asked in the SAQ #78. As well, there is this suggestion: It would be well, with regard to the common rights of manufacturers, workmen and artisans, that laws be established, giving moderate profits to manufacturers, and to workmen the necessary means of existence and security for the future.

The use of 'moderate' is telling; too, there is no mention that capitalists, as they have emerged in the gaming ontology currently in vogue, ought to have their hands in the pot. Related to this is the diminishing of the use of 'usurious' which applies in many situation; Islam's no-interest model ought to be a little more attention than it has to date.

This was a necessary aside since science is very much a human affair.

Remarks:

10/04/2010 -- Friction can beget progress.

10/11/2009 -- Will, an operational imperative for science.

09/13/2009 -- Economics requires additional attention.

03/19/2009 -- Science and knowing are key.

Modified: 10/04/2010

Sufficiency thrice

Month, Day: Names, Speech (Grace)

In Kitáb-i-Aqdas #172, we find this: We, of a certainty, have had no purpose in this earthly realm save to make God manifest and to reveal His sovereignty; sufficient unto Me is God for a witness. We, of a certainty, have had no intent in the celestial Kingdom but to exalt His Cause and glorify His praise; sufficient unto Me is God for a protector. We, of a certainty, have had no desire in the Dominion on high except to extol God and what hath been sent down by Him; sufficient unto Me is God for a helper.

There is no reason to think that any sufficiency set ought to be of cardinality one which some viewpoints, looking for a grand scheme, might seem to propose. On the other hand, we may want to argue for a minimal set as this is necessary for operational, and even ontological, effectiveness. Yet, that minimality would be conditional.

So, discussing such issues is the task at hand.

Remarks:

08/05/2009 -- We'll look at SAQ #37 more in the context of how the Teleological influences.

05/29/2009 -- The Transcendent baffles.

Modified: 08/05/2009

Names are

Month, Day: Names, Power (Perfection)

We'll keep the sufficiency discussion going by taking a meandering path for awhile. The road to truth may be straight, yet some side-trips are allowed (that we're given science as a means to know necessitates such [ah, Independence, for us, free will]).

In the progression of months, there has to be some meaning embedded in the sequence. Why? Nothing is random, essentially, though there are quasi-random processes that keep us within our limits. Now, whether or not we can discern what the meaning might be is one issue.

Another support for this notion is the Valley of Contentment (they eat of the endless bounties of inner significances) using the knowledge that we are part of and do not encompass Creation.

So, we can use the myriad potential permutations as inspiration to contemplate the Oceans that have been opened to our exploration with the advent of the Baha'i Revelation.

So, that Words and Names are symmetric around Perfection is very interesting. Of course, the former leads to ponder LOGOS and much more. The latter, from one viewpoint, is very much related to that world view that arises out of mathematical and computational efforts. How to show this is very much on the plate, and the topic does relate to the notions about sufficiency.

In our trek toward abstraction, which we can see this type of thinking as growing from way back in the past and accelerating from the works of 17th century minds onward to now, we loft ourselves, essentially, into a growing maze of groundless speculation. Okay, perhaps that is too strong; yet, that the epitome of thinking pushes us toward the loose mindset (relativity, unstructured) has to be explained somehow.

And, criticism without some notion of alternatives is as worthless as the groundless speculation. That is where Names comes in; but, Names, as we see in it being part of a collective, is not alone, nor sufficient. Names brings structure in several ways; such is imperative to our foundations.

Even though Creation-oriented thinking leads to a change is foundations, use of this respects the notions raised by the arguments of the quasi-empiricists and is operationally sound. The aforementioned audacity would be necessary due to the current climate that mocks any but the most extreme materialistic viewpoints.

The main question to ask is, how is it necessary that abstractionistic thinking leads to materialistic outcomes? Would not the spaces and structures that are the most powerful rest better on something that was revealed?

Ad hominen attacks against those struggling to turn the divinely inspired into the understandable demonstrate more the weakness of those lofting the attacks than it undermines the source motivating the studies to found a better ontology.

By the way, the motivation of all this is not to found some spiritual-based science; rather, it is to put a firmer foundation under our tenuous structures which are shaky from several sides (that things are not as firm as they could be is arguable, however it cannot be refuted); and, it might be said that some of the shakiness is in the design (Perfection has been misconstrued which will be part of the sufficiency discussions).
Remarks:

08/14/2009 -- We're starting the Operational, soon.
Modified: 08/14/2009

Audacity

Month, Day: Names, Light (Beauty)
What type of audacity would it take to propose what might be needed for a proper foundation for the sciences? Well, all that probably depends upon several things which we'll look at including what might 'suffice' enough to be so bold (sufficiency will always be of interest).

Yet, consider this from the Advent of Divine Justice, Pages 43-72: gr6: “Peter,” ‘Abdu’l-Bahá has testified, “according to the history of the Church, was also incapable of keeping count of the days of the week. Whenever he decided to go fishing, he would tie up his weekly food into seven parcels, and every day he would eat one of them, and when he had reached the seventh, he would know that the Sabbath had arrived, and thereupon would observe it.” If the Son of Man was capable of infusing into apparently so crude and helpless an instrument such potency as to cause, in the words of Bahá’u’lláh, “the mysteries of wisdom and of utterance to flow out of his mouth,” and to exalt him above the rest of His disciples, and render him fit to become His successor and the founder of His Church, how much more can the Father, Who is Bahá’u’lláh, empower the most puny and insignificant among His followers to achieve, for the execution of His purpose, such wonders as would dwarf the mightiest achievements of even the first apostle of Jesus Christ!
There are many ways to approach the necessary changes; that we are given the Attributes to ponder ought to be important; the current month's Attribute suggests many things.

Remarks:

05/29/2009 -- The Transcendent baffles.

Modified: 05/29/2009

Sufficiency, by necessity

Month, Day: Names, Grandeur (Glory)

Earlier, a post pondered sufficiency as it might relate to the Writings as a BASIS for science. There would still be the observational framework to which the modern mind has become attached. Yet, we could look at problems such as this one.

In the Second Valley, we find this: If a man could know what lieth hid in this one verse, it would suffice him. Wherefore, in praise of such as these, He hath said: “Men whom neither merchandise nor traffic beguile from the remembrance of God….”

Essentially, we would find a world view that is not shakeable, even if provisional in the true sense (discussed below). Is not such a view sought by many?

So, let's look at the referenced verse from the Second Valley:

• The mystery treasured in this plane is divulged in the following holy verse from the Súrih of THE CAVE:
• “And thou mightest have seen the sun when it arose, pass on the right of their cave, and when it set, leave them on the left, while they were in its spacious chamber. This is one of the signs of God. Guided indeed is he whom God guideth; but for him whom He misleadeth, thou shalt by no means find a patron.”

We see, firstly, that the verse references the Quran Sura of the Cave (Sura XVII, Rodwell's translation). Secondly, there have been many traditions (hadiths) dealing with this Sura over the years, including special powers. Thirdly, much discussion has gone on over the years about the motivation for the Sura which covers a wide-ranging area, including that of the Dhul-Qarnayn.

Fourthly, ..., but, we have been counseled to not look too much to the past. So, there must be some key there that does have some operational power but that is easy to overlook.

Well, this could be several things. We can start by asking some questions and by trying to review these in coming posts.

What about the notion that there is something that could be called, by analogy, a principle vector (sun movement depicting facing north) that suggests other than a relativistic view of the universe (and universes)? How could this come into play?

Could there be, for instance, a change to mathematics and computation where actual physical entities (Creation) provide the foundational framework? Ah, but is not that already partly understood by some?

Fifthly, the Surah of the Cave brings in the fact that one cannot predict tomorrow's outcome (Say not thou of a thing, " I will surely do it to-morrow;" without , "If God will." And when thou hast forgotten, call thy Lord to mind; and say, "Haply my Lord will guide me, that I may come near to the truth of this story with correctness." 23)

What could that say about risk management and some other modern processes dealing with uncertainty?

Remarks:

05/26/2011 -- A 'super' position can have merit.

04/04/2011 -- We'll be looking at things like foreknowledge.

02/24/2010 -- Ascendant to Transcendent.

12/07/2009 -- Motivational musings, especially topology.

10/11/2009 -- Will, an operational imperative for science.

10/02/2009 -- World embracing, at its best.

08/05/2009 -- We'll look at SAQ #37 more in the context of how the Teleological influences.

05/29/2009 -- The Transcendent baffles.

Modified: 05/26/2011

Names on

Month, Day: Names, Splendour (Justice)

The next post will deal with sufficiency, again, with a focus toward economics and more.

Meanwhile, lets continue with the Attribute theme. Light starts summer in the northern climes. And, as we know. summer differs by one's position going north. So, what is summer can be thought of ideally, yet each location and year brings us something new, as do the months.

So, after Light, we had the progression that led to Names which is the last full summer month.

Now, why might this be interesting? Well, we know that the Manifestation (SAQ #42) brings a spiritual springtime. And, from this type of metaphor we would expect that a summer would follow. We can look at prior cycles to talk about the transitions, yet we're counseled to not look back (SAQ #41) too much (as we cannot).

So, the coming analysis will limit itself to a small delta backward from 1844. What we'll see is a rush of new ideas and methods that started and grew (the Age of Enlightenment can correlate to pre-Bab era), such that marvels abound everywhere one looks, of both Creation and our creations.

How long will that progression continue at a high rate? Which leads to another question, where are we in the summer of Baha'i? Are we even in the summer yet? If so, is it late summer?

Of course, what follows summer is the fall and winter. Are there things that we could do to have a lingering fall, the proverbial 'indian' summer, so to speak?

Remarks:

10/04/2010 -- Friction can beget progress.

09/13/2009 -- Economics requires additional attention.

08/14/2009 -- We're starting the Operational, soon.

05/29/2009 -- The Transcendent baffles.

Modified: 10/04/2010

Toward Names

Month, Day: Perfection, Loftiness (Grace)

Names is up next which can lead to all sorts of operational thoughts, related to categories, abstract types, and the like.

A final Perfection entry for the year might be this topological notion.

SAQ #37: We affirm these names and attributes, not to prove the perfections of God, but to deny that He is capable of imperfections. ... If the attributes are not identical with the Essence, there must also be a multiplicity of preexistences, and differences between the attributes and the Essence must also exist; and as Preexistence is necessary, therefore, the sequence of preexistences would become infinite. This is an evident error.

Remarks:

12/07/2009 -- Motivational musings, especially topology.

08/05/2009 -- We'll look at SAQ #37 more in the context of how the Teleological influences.

05/29/2009 -- The Transcendent baffles.

Modified: 12/07/2009

No flaws

Month, Day: Perfection, Sovereignty (Beauty)

The Valley of Knowledge: The wayfarer in this Valley seeth in the fashionings of the True One nothing save clear providence, and at every moment saith: “No defect canst thou see in the creation of the God of Mercy: Repeat the gaze: Seest thou a single flaw?”

One has to wonder how this relates to evolution and discussions thereof. In the SAQ #62, we hear that perfections are without limit, implying that being able to progress is an attribute of the contingent.

One stumbling block, in the discussions, seems to be around the issue of species modification (SAQ #46) that does not account for the effects of Unity and higher on the condition of man. Are these ever going to be 'scientifically' demonstratable? Yes, with a proper science.

Remarks:

05/29/2009 -- The Transcendent baffles.

Modified: 05/29/2009

Perfection

Month, Day: Perfection, Sovereignty (Beauty)
SAQ #28: Before appearing in the human form, the Word of God was in the utmost sanctity and glory, existing in perfect beauty and splendor in the height of its magnificence.

Month, Day: Perfection, Speech (Majesty)
SAQ #46: When man looks at the beings with a penetrating regard, and attentively examines the condition of existences, and when he sees the state, the organization and the perfection of the world, he will be convinced that in the possible world there is nothing more wonderful than that which already exists.

Month, Day: Perfection, Perfection (Independence)

SAQ #39: Verily, from the beginning that Holy Reality is conscious of the secret of existence, and from the age of childhood signs of greatness appear and are visible in Him. Therefore, how can it be that with all these bounties and perfections He should have no consciousness?

Remarks:

08/27/2012 -- Today, we have another type of double day.


12/21/2009 -- More on the diagonal or square'd days.

08/05/2009 -- We'll look at SAQ #37 more in the context of how the Teleological influences.

05/29/2009 -- The Transcendent baffles.

Modified: 08/27/2012

Words and more

Month, Day: Words, Sovereignty (Justice)

The Seven Valleys And the Four Valleys

Pg 29: The tongue faileth in describing these three Valleys, and speech falleth short. The pen steppeth not into this region, the ink leaveth only a blot. In these planes, the nightingale of the heart hath other songs and secrets, which make the heart to stir and the soul to clamor, but this mystery of inner meaning may be whispered only from heart to heart, confided only from breast to breast.

Pg 50: The story is told of a mystic knower, who went on a journey with a learned grammarian as his companion. They came to the shore of the Sea of Grandeur. The knower straightway flung himself into the waves, but the grammarian stood lost in his reasonings, which were as words that are written on water.

Pg 54: The denizens of this plane speak no words -- but they gallop their chargers. They see but the inner reality of the Beloved. To them all words of sense are meaningless, and senseless words are full of meaning.

The Hidden Words of Bahá’u’lláh Part II -- From the Persian

#69: O CHILDREN OF ADAM! Holy words and pure and goodly deeds ascend unto the heaven of celestial glory.

#76: O SON OF MY HANDMAID! Guidance hath ever been given by words, and now it is given by deeds.

Remarks:

Meditation on Words, and all related aspects, during this month has been fruitful in terms of how blogging can be used to support truth. Yet, the blog is never sufficient, not unlike prayer needing action.

Modified: 07/31/2008