With this historic Declaration the dawn of an Age that
signalizes the consummation of all ages had broken. The first impulse of a
momentous Revelation had been communicated to the one “but for whom,” according
to the testimony of the Kitáb-i-Íqán, “God would not have been established upon
the seat of His mercy, nor ascended the throne of eternal glory.” Not until
forty days had elapsed, however, did the enrollment of the seventeen remaining
Letters of the Living commence. Gradually, spontaneously, some in sleep, others
while awake, some through fasting and prayer, others through dreams and
visions, they discovered the Object of their quest, and were enlisted under the
banner of the new-born Faith.
- Shoghi Effendi (Chapter 1, ‘God Passes By)