Ambassador to Humanity – Episode Seven: Servant to All Humanity

If a single word had to be chosen to encapsulate the entire life of Abdu’l-Baha, that word might be “service.” In fact, his very name means “the Servant of Glory.”  

This episode of Ambassador to Humanity describes how Abdu’l-Baha dedicated every waking moment of his life to serving those around him and how, through his example, he encouraged others to do the same.

Abdu’l-Baha’s sacrificial spirit and humility were among the most striking qualities for those that encountered him. In a world accustomed to religious leaders living privileged lives, Abdu’l-Baha spent his days caring for the lowliest and least privileged in society. For him, spirituality did not consist of shutting oneself off from the world, rather in dedicated efforts for the service of all humanity and the betterment of society. His service knew no bounds, extending to all people, dissolving barriers and paying no attention to entrenched social conventions. “Let your hurt burn with loving kindness,” said Abdu’l-Baha, “for all who may cross your path.”

This episode also explores a wider realm – how Abdu’l-Baha made service itself the touchstone for a new definition of human nature. He consistently praised service in others, saying it represented the highest expression of our human talents and capacities. 

So in a world preoccupied with self-interest, what can humanity learn about service from the example of Abdu’l-Baha?

Credits:

Narrated by Parisa Fitz-Henley and Rainn Wilson, with contributions from Hooper Dunbar, Nwandi Lawson, Wendi Momen, Robert Stockman, and Lesley Taherzadeh O’Mara

Featuring the voices of Anthony Azizi, Penn Badgley, Justin Baldoni, James Gillies, Beverley Evans Matthews, Adam Mondschein, Sarah Perceval, and Shirin Youseffian-Maanian

Written and produced by Rob Weinberg and Nathan Rainsford

Assistant Editor: Noah Matthews

Executive producers include Rainn Wilson, Shahin Sobhani, Steve Sarowitz, Maia Reneau, and Ford Bowers for Spring Green Media, in collaboration with 239Days.com and BahaiTeachings.org.