
[Extract from a Tablet of 'Abdu'l‑Bahá]
When that essence of holiness and reality of sanctity, her honour the Virgin Mary---upon her be salutations and praise---became purified and sanctified from all else save God, she brought forth such a luminous fruit that she became the shell for that divine Pearl and the target for the darts of infinite malice.
---'Abdu'l‑Bahá