> [!NOTE]+ Meta > Author:: Philip Koomen > Reference:: https://bahaiteachings.org/craftsmanship-as-spiritual-practice/ > Date:: 2024 > Tags:: #warp > WeftLinks:: [[Spiritual value of craft]] > Claim:: [[Claim - Craft gives meaning to life]] > [!SUMMARY] Summary > For this furniture maker, craft reflects the Baha'i commitment to excellence as a form of worship ### Highlights >I begin every day with a devotional and meditative practice. This act polishes the mirror of one’s heart. >The Baha’i teachings have elevated art and craft done in the spirit of selfless service for the betterment of the world to the station of worship. [Abdu’l-Baha](https://bahaiteachings.org/abdul-baha/) [said](https://www.bahai.org/library/authoritative-texts/abdul-baha/additional-tablets-extracts-talks/296513294/1#925134802): “The more thou strivest to perfect it, the closer wilt thou come to God. What bestowal could be greater than this, that one’s art should be even as the act of worshipping the Lord?” >The Bab wrote: “For each thing, within its own station, yearneth to attain unto the utmost height of excellence in its own level.” >“For verily one who perfecteth his handiwork indeed attaineth certitude in the perfection of the handiwork of God within his own being." > The source of crafts, sciences and arts is the power of reflection. Make ye every effort that out of this ideal mine there may gleam forth such pearls of wisdom and utterance as will promote the well-being and harmony of all the kindreds of the earth. Philip Koomen’s furniture is a creative response to the interconnectedness between craftsmanship, design and sculpture, inspired by the Baha’i teachings.