In Memoriam : Dr Ali Muhammad Varqa

Little known outside the membership of the Baha'i Faith, Dr Varqa passed away earlier this month. I met him on several occasions, and remember him as a quiet, self-effacing person, a true 'gentleman'. He was appointed one of the Hands of the Cause in the Baha'i Faith - tasked with spreading the teachings of the Faith. He was also responsible for Huquq'u'llah - a voluntary donation made by Bahai's. Unlike taxes or tithes in other religions, Huquq'u'llah is given only after basic living costs have been taken care of.

The Baha'i Faith has no clergy and has an elected administration at local, national and international levels. There are also positions of advice, guidance and counselling which are appointed but who have no administrative authority. These are the Hands of the Cause and the Counsellors. The first Hands of the Cause were appointed by Baha'u'llah the founder of the Baha'i Faith. Dr Varqa was the last surviving Hand, appointed by the Guardian of the Faith. I have met several of the Hands and without exception found them to be humble servants of humanity. Dr Varqa will be sadly missed.