October 13

Concerning the third question (sale of alcoholic drinks at Bahá'í-owned premises and restaurants), the beloved Guardian has asked me to point out that this practice is highly improper and reprehensible and would be tantamount to encouraging acts that are forbidden in the Faith. It is indeed the conscientious duty of every true Bahá'í to abandon such practices. However, should a Bahá'í owner rent his property without himself taking any part whatever in the business, or giving aid to the tenant, then he would incur no responsibility. Nevertheless, the landlord should resort to every possible means to rid his premises of the defilement of this degrading business; how far more injurious if he himself were engaged in such repugnant affairs. (From a letter dated 6 November 1935 to a National Spiritual Assembly translated from the Persian; The Compilation of Compilations, vol. II, Prohibition on Drinking Alcohol)