Extract from a Tablet of ‘Abdu’l‑Bahá

When that essence of holiness and reality of sanctity, her honour the Virgin Mary—upon her be salutations and praise—became purified and sanctified from all else save God, she brought forth such a luminous fruit that she became the shell for that divine Pearl and the target for the darts of infinite malice.

—‘Abdu’l‑Bahá