|
If these signs did not occur literally, then Joel's prophecy was symbolic ,and we therefore have good cause to interpret Matthew 24:29 symbolically also. If Joel's prophecy was fulfilled in an outwardly literal way, then we know that the signs will be so unremarkable as to be unrecognized or easily forgotten. If this is the case, then we should not expect everyone to recognize them or to know what such signs signify. (113:2) Another similar prophecy can be found in the Book of Daniel where it is written:-- I was watching in the night visions, And behold, one like the Son of Man, Coming on the clouds of heaven! He came to the Ancient of Days, And they brought Him near before Him. (Dan. 7:13) (113:3) Here, Daniel may be speaking of the Second Advent. However, during His ministry, Jesus already indicates that He came from heaven (see John 3:13;6:38-42). Moreover, Baha'u'llah's explanation of the symbolism of the tribulation and the signs, such as stars falling, describes circumstances equally evident at the time of Christ - that is, the light of the Mosaic Revelation had become obscured, the true meaning of the Scriptures was not understood (2 Cor. 3:14), and corrupt religious leaders had authority over the congregations (Matt. 16:1-12; and ch. 23). As Baha'u'llah says, these signs occur in every dispensation before, and accompany, the appearance of a Prophet or Manifestation of God.
(113:4)
|