Bahai ●

This story is a classic example of , a core Baháʼí belief. It teaches that:

In the Baháʼí Faith, stories are often used to illustrate spiritual principles like , generosity , and detachment . One of the most famous and heartwarming stories from the life of 'Abdu'l-Bahá (the son of the Faith's founder, Baháʼu'lláh) took place during His time in Baghdad. The Story of the Black Bread and the Shriveled Apple This story is a classic example of , a core Baháʼí belief

: Despite His station, 'Abdu'l-Bahá prioritized the humble offering of a poor workman over a fine meal, showing that everyone is equal in the eyes of God. The Story of the Black Bread and the

The friend explained that as he was leaving, a poor Baháʼí laborer had come to him, saying: "I hear you are going into the presence of our Beloved. I have nothing to send Him but this, my dinner. I pray you offer it to Him with my loving devotion" . I pray you offer it to Him with my loving devotion"

One afternoon, a friend arrived in the presence of 'Abdu'l-Bahá, having traveled from the city of ‘Ishqábád. He presented 'Abdu'l-Bahá with a simple cotton handkerchief tied in a knot. When 'Abdu'l-Bahá untied it, He found inside: A piece of . A single shriveled apple .