Bahai Faith; Peace -- Religious aspects -- Bahai Faith
It behooves him to be the cause of human welfare, but inasmuch as
he glories in the savagery of animalism, it is an evidence that divine
civilization has not been established in human society. Material
civilization has advanced unmistakably, but because it is not associated
with divine civilization, evil and wickedness abound. In ancient times if
two nations were at war twelve months, not over twenty thousand men would
be killed; now the instruments of death have become so multiplied and
perfected that one hundred thousand can be destroyed in a day. In three
months during the Russo-Japanese War one million perished. This was
undreamed of in former cycles. The cause is the absence of divine
civilization.
This revered American nation presents evidences of greatness and worth. It
is my hope that this just government will stand for peace so that warfare
may be abolished throughout the world and the standards of national unity
and reconciliation be upraised. This is the greatest attainment of the
world of humanity. This American nation is equipped and empowered to
accomplish that which will adorn the pages of history, to become the envy
of the world and be blest in the East and the West for the triumph of its
democracy. I pray that this may come to pass, and I ask the blessing of
God in behalf of you all.
6 May 1912
Talk at Sanatorium of Dr. C. M. Swingle
Cleveland, Ohio
Notes by Sigel T. Brooks
This is a beautiful city; the climate is pleasant; the views are charming.
All the cities of America seem to be large and beautiful, and the people
appear prosperous. The American continent gives signs and evidences of
very great advancement; its future is even more promising, for its
influence and illumination are far-reaching, and it will lead all nations
spiritually. The flag of freedom and banner of liberty have been unfurled
here, but the prosperity and advancement of a city, the happiness and
greatness of a country depend upon its hearing and obeying the call of
God. The light of reality must shine therein and divine civilization be
founded; then the radiance of the Kingdom will be diffused and heavenly
influences surround. Material civilization is likened to the body, whereas
divine civilization is the spirit in that body. A body not manifesting the
spirit is dead; a fruitless tree is worthless. Jesus declares that there
is spiritual capacity in some people, for all are not submerged in the sea
of materialism. They seek the Divine Spirit; they turn to God; they long
for the Kingdom. It is my hope that these revered people present may
attain both material and spiritual progress. As they have advanced
wonderfully in material degrees, so may they, likewise, advance in
spiritual development until the body shall become refined and beautiful
through the wealth of spiritual potentiality and efficiency.
Public-domain text, read in full here on John Shaqi.
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