Bahai

At that moment, 'Abdu'l-Bahá’s own luncheon had just been served to Him. However, He immediately pushed His own food aside and spread the poor laborer’s gift out before Him. He ate the dry bread and the shriveled apple with great relish, breaking off pieces to share with His guests. He told them: Why This Story Matters

: The spirit behind a gift is far more important than its material worth. At that moment, 'Abdu'l-Bahá’s own luncheon had just

One afternoon, a friend arrived in the presence of 'Abdu'l-Bahá, having traveled from the city of ‘Ishqábád. He presented 'Abdu'l-Bahá with a simple cotton handkerchief tied in a knot. When 'Abdu'l-Bahá untied it, He found inside: A piece of . A single shriveled apple . He told them: Why This Story Matters :

This story is a classic example of , a core Baháʼí belief. It teaches that: When 'Abdu'l-Bahá untied it, He found inside: A piece of

: Despite His station, 'Abdu'l-Bahá prioritized the humble offering of a poor workman over a fine meal, showing that everyone is equal in the eyes of God.