Bahai Faith; Peace -- Religious aspects -- Bahai Faith
The central purpose of the divine religions is the establishment of peace
and unity among mankind. Their reality is one; therefore, their
accomplishment is one and universal—whether it be through the essential or
material ordinances of God. There is but one light of the material sun,
one ocean, one rain, one atmosphere. Similarly, in the spiritual world
there is one divine reality forming the center and altruistic basis for
peace and reconciliation among various and conflicting nations and
peoples. Consider how the Roman Empire and Greek nation were at war in
enmity and hatred after the Messianic day, how the hostilities of Egypt
and Assyria, though subdued in intensity, still flamed in the warring
element of these ancient and declining nations. But the teachings of Jesus
Christ proved to be the cement by which they were united; warfare ceased,
strife and hatred passed away, and these belligerent peoples associated in
love and friendship. For strife and warfare are the very destroyers of
human foundations, whereas peace and amity are the builders and safeguards
of human welfare. As an instance, two nations which have remained at peace
for centuries declare war against each other. What destruction and loss
befalls both in one year of strife and conflict—the undoing of centuries.
How urgent their necessity and demand for peace, with its comfort and
progress, instead of war, which blasts and destroys the foundation of all
human attainment.
The body politic may be likened to the human organism. As long as the
various members and parts of that organism are coordinated and cooperating
in harmony, we have as a result the expression of life in its fullest
degree. When these members lack coordination and harmony, we have the
reverse, which in the human organism is disease, dissolution, death.
Similarly, in the body politic of humanity dissension, discord and warfare
are always destructive and inevitably fatal. All created beings are
dependent upon peace and coordination, for every contingent and phenomenal
being is a composition of distinct elements. As long as there is affinity
and cohesion among these constituent elements, strength and life are
manifest; but when dissension and repulsion arise among them,
disintegration follows. This is proof that peace and amity, which God has
willed for His children, are the saving factors of human society, whereas
war and strife, which violate His ordinances, are the cause of death and
destruction. Therefore, God has sent His Prophets to announce the message
of goodwill, peace and life to the world of mankind.
Public-domain text, read in full here on John Shaqi.
Reviews
Reviews
No reviews yet
Be the first to share your thoughts on this work.
Elsewhere in the archive
Join the Discussion
Join the discussion
Sign in to leave a comment or review.
Sign InorCreate an account