In any group,
however loving the consultation, there are nevertheless points on which, from
time to time, agreement cannot be reached. In a Spiritual Assembly this dilemma
is resolved by a majority vote. There can, however, be no majority where only
two parties are involved, as in the case of a husband and wife. There are,
therefore, times when a wife should defer to her husband, and times when a
husband should defer to his wife, but neither should ever unjustly dominate the
other. In short, the relationship between husband and wife should be as held
forth in the prayer revealed by 'Abdu'l-Baha which is often read at Baha'i
weddings: "Verily, they are married in obedience to Thy command. Cause
them to become the signs of harmony and unity until the end of time."
- The Universal Hosues of Justice (From a letter date 28 December 1980 written on behalf of the Universal House
of Justice to NSA of New Zealand)
