down in the Book by God, the Mighty, the Bountiful.

43 Lament not in your hours of trial, neither rejoice therein; seek ye the
Middle Way which is the remembrance of Me in your afflictions and
reflection over that which may befall you in future. Thus informeth you He
Who is the Omniscient, He Who is aware.

44 Shave not your heads; God hath adorned them with hair, and in this
there are signs from the Lord of creation to those who reflect upon the
requirements of nature. He, verily, is the God of strength and wisdom.
Notwithstanding, it is not seemly to let the hair pass beyond the limit of
the ears. Thus hath it been decreed by Him Who is the Lord of all worlds.

45 Exile and imprisonment are decreed for the thief, and, on the third
offence, place ye a mark upon his brow so that, thus identified, he may
not be accepted in the cities of God and His countries. Beware lest,
through compassion, ye neglect to carry out the statutes of the religion
of God; do that which hath been bidden you by Him Who is compassionate and
merciful. We school you with the rod of wisdom and laws, like unto the
father who educateth his son, and this for naught but the protection of
your own selves and the elevation of your stations. By My life, were ye to
discover what We have desired for you in revealing Our holy laws, ye would
offer up your very souls for this sacred, this mighty, and most exalted
Faith.

46 Whoso wisheth to make use of vessels of silver and gold is at liberty
to do so. Take heed lest, when partaking of food, ye plunge your hands
into the contents of bowls and platters. Adopt ye such usages as are most
in keeping with refinement. He, verily, desireth to see in you the manners
of the inmates of Paradise in His mighty and most sublime Kingdom. Hold ye