There is no special physical significance in the remains of
the Prophets or relics of Their Persons. But there is a profound spiritual
significance in the sense that Their dust was the physical mirror of the
greatness of God. In other words we know God through His Prophets, Who have
bodies; these bodies -- Their very dust -- are precious through association. It
is natural for people to be touched by a lock of hair or some token of one they
loved; how much more should we treasure and feel moved by a relic of the
Beloved of God?…
The atoms of the Prophets are just atoms, like all others,
but the association of this great spiritual power with them leaves in the place
they are laid to rest a spiritual atmosphere, if one can use this expression.
They are, no doubt, endowed with a tremendous spiritual influence and
far-reaching power. But the physical character of their atoms are not different
from other people's, any more than their bodies and physical functions are
different.
- Shoghi Effendi (Directives from the Guardian)
