Universal Cycle
Bahá'u'lláh as the originator of this Universal Cycle[edit]
There were many universal cycles preceding this one (in which Adam was the first and Bahá'u'lláh the Universal Manifestation)[edit]
"Question: You have stated that we are living in a universal cycle, the first Manifestation of which was Adam and the universal Manifestation of which is Bahá'u'lláh. Does this imply that other universal cycles preceded this one and that all traces of them have been effaced--cycles in which the ultimate purpose was the divine spiritualization of man just as it is the creative intention in this one? ... Briefly, there were many universal cycles preceding this one in which we are living. They were consummated, completed and their traces obliterated. The divine and creative purpose in them was the evolution of spiritual man, just as it is in this cycle. The circle of existence is the same circle; it returns. The tree of life has ever borne the same heavenly fruit."
- ('Abdu'l-Bahá, Promulgation of Universal Peace, p. 218, 220 passim)
Each Dispensation is a cycle, repeating until a universal cycle is completed whereby important events occur and previous traces are effaced, and then the cycle continues indefinitely (and has no beginning)[edit]
"Each of the Divine Manifestations has likewise a cycle, and during the cycle His laws and commandments prevail and are performed. When His cycle is completed by the appearance of a new Manifestation, a new cycle begins. In this way cycles begin, end and are renewed, until a universal cycle is completed in the world, when important events and great occurrences will take place which entirely efface every trace and every record of the past; then a new universal cycle begins in the world, for this universe has no beginning. We have before stated proofs and evidences concerning this subject; there is no need of repetition.
- ('Abdu'l-Bahá, Some Answered Questions, pp. 160-161; also in Foundations of World Unity, p. 54)
A universal cycle signifies a long duration of time, with innumerable periods and epochs, with a supreme Manifestation bringing the world to maturity, and with subsequent Manifestations renewing material commandments but under His shadow[edit]
"Briefly, we say a universal cycle in the world of existence signifies a long duration of time, and innumerable and incalculable periods and epochs. In such a cycle the Manifestations appear with splendor in the realm of the visible until a great and supreme Manifestation makes the world the center of His radiance. His appearance causes the world to attain to maturity, and the extension of His cycle is very great. Afterward, other Manifestations will arise under His shadow, Who according to the needs of the time will renew certain commandments relating to material questions and affairs, while remaining under His shadow.
- ('Abdu'l-Bahá, Some Answered Questions, pp. 161; also in Foundations of World Unity, p. 54)
