Was Shoghi Effendi aware of his impending early death?

Absolutely, without a doubt!

This question is often raised by those Bahá’ís who, due to a lack of faith in the indestructibility of the Covenant of Bahá’u’lláh and the immutability of the Will and Testament of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá, have not taken the time to search for an affirmative answer. A thorough review of Shoghi Effendi’s actions and the historic messages he dispatched during the latter years of his ministry provides clear evidence. Had these individuals maintained unwavering faith in the Covenant and assurance that Shoghi Effendi remained faithful to every clause of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá’s Will and Testament, they would have found not only an undeniable answer but also the identity of his successor. Shoghi Effendi intentionally obscured this identity, knowing his passing was imminent and that it was crucial to veil this from the believers. Tragically, upon his passing, the Bahá’í world failed to recognize his successor and mistakenly believed the Guardianship had prematurely ended.

Further research could be limited to Shoghi Effendi’s message dated November 23, 1951. This message, issued eleven months after his proclamation of January 9, 1951, detailed his historic decision to establish the International Bahá’í Council as the first embryonic Universal House of Justice. In his March 2, 1951 message, Shoghi Effendi identified Mason Remey as the permanent President, highlighting Remey’s exemplary devotion and unique service record.

Bahá’ís are familiar with Shoghi Effendi’s Ten Year Global Crusade, initiated between Ridván 1953 and Ridván 1963. This plan aimed to establish the Faith worldwide, with specific goals for National Spiritual Assemblies. Shoghi Effendi’s November 23, 1951 message predicted an active role for the International Bahá’í Council, indicating that Mason Remey, as President, would inherit the Guardianship. Shoghi Effendi prophesied his passing during this crusade, which occurred on November 4, 1957.

Additionally, Shoghi Effendi appointed a successor almost a quarter-century older than himself, further evidence of his awareness of his imminent passing.