94. QUESTION: Concerning mosques, chapels and temples.
ANSWER: Whatever hath been constructed for the worship of the one true God, such as mosques, chapels and temples, must not be used for any purpose other than the commemoration of His Name. This is an ordinance of God, and he who violateth it is verily of those who have transgressed. No harm attacheth to the builder, for he [pg 135]hath performed his deed for the sake of God, and hath received and will continue to receive his just reward.
95. QUESTION: Regarding the appointments of a place of business, which are needed for carrying on one’s work or profession: are they subject to the payment of Ḥuqúqu’lláh, or are they covered by the same ruling as the household furnishings?
ANSWER: They are covered by the same ruling as the household furnishings.
96. QUESTION: Concerning the exchange of property held in trust for cash or other forms of property, to guard against depreciation or loss.
ANSWER: Regarding the written question on the exchange of property held in trust to guard against depreciation and loss, such exchange is permissible on condition that the substitute will be equivalent in value. Thy Lord, verily, is the Expounder, the Omniscient, and He, truly, is the Ordainer, the Ancient of Days.
97. QUESTION: Concerning the washing of the feet in winter and summer.
ANSWER: It is the same in both cases; warm water is preferable, but there can be no objection to cold.
98. QUESTION: A further question on divorce.
ANSWER: Since God, exalted be His glory, doth [pg 136]not favour divorce, nothing was revealed on this issue. However, from the beginning of the separation until the end of one year, two people or more must remain informed as witnesses; if, by the end, there is no reconciliation, divorce taketh place. This must be recorded in the registry by the religious judicial officer of the city appointed by the Trustees of the House of Justice. Observance of this procedure is essential lest those that are possessed of an understanding heart be saddened.