Amatu'l-Bahá Rúhíyyih Khánum, Bahá’í Hand of the Cause of God and wife of Shoghi Effendi (b. 1910)

A prominent figure in the Baháʼí Faith, Rúhíyyih Rabbání, born Mary Sutherland Maxwell on August 8, 1910, and passing on January 19, 2000, was widely recognized by her honorific title, Amatu'l-Bahá Rúhíyyih Khánum. This title, bestowed upon her by Shoghi Effendi, the Guardian of the Baháʼí Faith, translates from Arabic as 'Maidservant of Bahá'. Her life was profoundly intertwined with the spiritual and administrative development of the Baháʼí Faith throughout the 20th century.

Hailing from Montreal, Quebec, Canada, Rúhíyyih Rabbání's upbringing was deeply rooted in the Baháʼí community. Her mother, May Maxwell, was a distinguished early North American Baháʼí who had met ʻAbdu'l-Bahá, the son of Baháʼu'lláh, the founder of the Faith, during her pilgrimages to the Baháʼí holy land in Haifa, Israel. These early experiences, including her own two formative trips to the Baháʼí World Centre, fueled her engagement in various youth activities within the burgeoning Baháʼí community, laying the foundation for her future spiritual leadership and service.

The Guardian's Consort and a Pillar of the Faith

In 1937, Rúhíyyih Rabbání entered into a sacred union with Shoghi Effendi, who served as the Guardian of the Baháʼí Faith from 1921 until his passing in 1957. As his wife, she became an indispensable support and companion, sharing the immense responsibilities of guiding a rapidly expanding global religious community during a pivotal period. Their marriage symbolized a spiritual partnership at the heart of the Baháʼí administrative order.

Elevated to the Hands of the Cause of God

In 1952, Rúhíyyih Khánum was elevated to the distinguished rank of Hand of the Cause of God. This unique institution within the Baháʼí Faith comprises individuals appointed for life by the Guardian, tasked with the specific and vital missions of propagating the Baháʼí teachings, protecting the unity of the Faith, and preserving its integrity. In this capacity, she dedicated herself to a demanding schedule of global travel, attending to issues related to the worldwide expansion and protection of the Baháʼí Faith. Her extensive travels took her to over 100 countries, meeting Baháʼís from diverse backgrounds, encouraging local communities, and conveying the Guardian's directives and love. She played a crucial role in the implementation of the Ten Year Crusade (1953-1963), a global plan initiated by Shoghi Effendi for the systematic propagation of the Baháʼí Faith.

Navigating the Transition of Authority

Perhaps her most significant contribution came during the critical period following the unexpected passing of Shoghi Effendi in 1957. With no appointed successor as Guardian, Rúhíyyih Rabbání, along with her fellow Hands of the Cause, courageously stepped forward to assume the collective interim leadership of the Baháʼí Faith. This period, known as the Custodianship of the Hands of the Cause (1957-1963), saw them collectively manage the affairs of the Faith and meticulously prepare for the election of the Universal House of Justice, the supreme legislative and administrative body ordained by Baháʼu'lláh. Her instrumental role in this six-year interregnum ensured the preservation of the Faith's unity and its successful transition to its divinely ordained governing institution, fulfilling a critical prophecy within the Baháʼí writings. The election of the Universal House of Justice in 1963 marked the culmination of this painstaking and faithful stewardship, demonstrating the resilience and inherent strength of the Baháʼí administrative order.

Enduring Legacy and Literary Contributions

After Shoghi Effendi's death, Rúhíyyih Rabbání became for Baháʼís the last remaining direct link to the family of ʻAbdu'l-Bahá, who headed the Baháʼí Faith from 1892 to 1921 and was the eldest son of the Faith's founder, Baháʼu'lláh. This personal connection provided immense spiritual comfort and historical continuity for the global Baháʼí community during a period of significant change.

Beyond her administrative and spiritual service, Rúhíyyih Khánum was a prolific author and speaker. Her published works include:

• The Priceless Pearl: A poignant and intimate biography of her late husband, Shoghi Effendi, offering invaluable insights into his life, work, and the challenges he faced as the Guardian.

• Prescription for Living: A collection of her insightful talks and writings on spiritual principles and their practical application in daily life.

These books continue to inspire and educate Baháʼís and interested readers worldwide. Her impact extended beyond the Baháʼí community, as evidenced by her recognition in Canada; in 2004, CBC viewers voted her number 44 on the list of "greatest Canadians" on the television show The Greatest Canadian, a testament to her profound influence and the esteem in which she was held.

Frequently Asked Questions About Amatu'l-Bahá Rúhíyyih Khánum

Who was Rúhíyyih Rabbání?

Rúhíyyih Rabbání, born Mary Sutherland Maxwell, was a distinguished figure in the Baháʼí Faith, known by her title Amatu'l-Bahá Rúhíyyih Khánum. She was the wife of Shoghi Effendi, the Guardian of the Baháʼí Faith, and later a Hand of the Cause of God, playing a pivotal role in the Faith's global expansion and the critical transition of authority after her husband's passing.

What does the title "Amatu'l-Bahá Rúhíyyih Khánum" mean?

The title "Amatu'l-Bahá" translates from Arabic as 'Maidservant of Bahá', bestowed upon her by Shoghi Effendi. "Rúhíyyih" is a Persian name meaning 'spiritual' or 'of the spirit', and "Khánum" is an honorific Persian title for women, akin to 'Lady' or 'Madam'.

What was her role as a Hand of the Cause of God?

As a Hand of the Cause of God, Rúhíyyih Khánum was tasked with the propagation, protection, and preservation of the unity of the Baháʼí Faith. This involved extensive global travels to encourage Baháʼí communities, educate individuals on the Faith's principles, and safeguard its integrity during a period of significant growth.

How did she contribute to the transfer of authority in the Baháʼí Faith?

Following Shoghi Effendi's passing in 1957, Rúhíyyih Khánum, as one of the Hands of the Cause, played a central role in the collective interim leadership (the Custodianship) of the Baháʼí Faith. She was instrumental in guiding the community during this crucial six-year period, ensuring its unity, and meticulously preparing for the successful election of the Universal House of Justice in 1963, the supreme governing body of the Baháʼí Faith.

What are some of her notable literary works?

Her most well-known books include The Priceless Pearl, a biography of Shoghi Effendi, and Prescription for Living, a compilation of her talks and writings on spiritual subjects. These works offer valuable insights into Baháʼí history, administration, and spiritual principles.