SCANNED BY DUANE TROXEL; NOT SPELLCHECKED OR PROOFREAD THIS DOCUMENT IS PROVIDED ONLINE IN THE HOPE THAT A VOLUNTEER WILL PROOFREAD AND FORMAT IT. IF YOU CAN HELP, PLEASE CONSULT THE STYLE SHEET AT bahai-library.com/editors/style.sheet.html AND THEN WRITE TO JONAH WINTERS. THANK YOU, YOUR HELP IS GREATLY NEEDED! UNITY TRIUMPHANT THE CALL OF THE KINGDOM AN INTRODUCTION TO THE BAHAI TEACHINGS AND A TESTIMONY OF FAITH IN THE REVELATION OF BAHA'U'LLAH. BY ELIZABETH HERRICK THE UNITY PRESS, 21, WEST SIDE, CLAPHAM COMMON, LONDON, S.W.4. 1925 [first published London: Kegan Paul, 1923] All rights (including those of translation) reserved by 'the Author. Printed in Great Britain by KING & JARRETr, LTn., Blackfriars. London. S.R. CONTENTS. T 31 s ENTRANCE INTO JERUSALEM BAHA'U'LLAH'S MESSAGE TO CHRISTIANS a LORD OF HOSTS AND THE GREATEST BRANCH PROCLAMATION OF 'ABDU'L-BAHA . UNIVERS-AGL IBALL,0 TEMPLE . -,WORDS OF BAHA'U'LLAH FROM THE KITABU L- SATISFACTION- DIVINE PRINCIPLES THE FOUNDATION AND TRUTH OF ]BEING RELimus FmDom THE SPIRIT OF COMPETITION 'ABDU'L-BAHA ON INDUSTRIAL UNREST . 43 TIM BEwARE TAnLF.T . 56 'rim UNIVERSALITY OF ETEuxAt TuuTH . 54 UNIVERSAL PRINCIPLES OF 1BAIIA'U'LLAH . 57 A UNIVERSAL AuximARY LANGUAGE . 63 67 72 'AuDu'L-BARA IN PARIS THE, HEALING 1A13DU'L-BAHA TEMPLE 'ABDu'L-BAHA MINSTER . 'ABDU'L-BAHA IN LIVERPOOL . 'ABDU'L-BAHA TO THE JEWS . V. OF THE NATIONS IN LONDON, AT THE CITY AT ST. JOHN'S, WEST- 16. RELIGION AND SCIENCE INAccoRD wiTH REASON 17.' CHRISTMAS IN, LONDON WITH 'ABDu'L- h EAHA 18. 'ABDU'L-BAHA, WITH THE SOCIETY OF FRIENDS 19. THE RADIANCE OF- THE TWENTIETH CENTURY 20, THE SPIRIT OF INVESTIGATION. 21. UNIVERSAL HARMONY 22. UNITY TRIUMPHANT 23. UNITY MEETINGS . 24. SPIRITUAL SPRiNGTiMES. 25. NEED OF PERSONALMANIFESTATION 2 6. THE SUN OF TRUTH 27. TnE FEAST OFRiDVAN 28. -CHILDHOOD OF BAHA'U'LLAH 29. OUTSTANDING EVENT IN THE WORLD'S HISTORY 30. TABLET OFBAHVU'LLAH., 31. A CHRISTIAN MISSIONARY AND IBAHk MARTYRDOMS 32. BAiWl PRECEPTS 33. KINDNESS To ANIMALS 34. PURITY AND CLEANLINESS DIVINE LAWS OF THE MOST MERCIFUL 35. WORDS OF 13AHA'U'LLAI-I AND 'ABDU'L- 13AHA ABOUT THE'MASHRIQU'L-ADHX" 36. HISTORic NOTE 87. CENTRE OF THE COVENANT AMONG THE NATIONS 38. BAHA'U'LLAH, TnE NEW NAME 211 ILLUSTRATIONS. 1. -PICTURE OF 'ABDU'L-BAHA 2. PICTURE OF MAS_muQU'L-AD_HKAR ir 8. KIF FROM A CALENDAR IN CONSTANTI- NOPLE 4. MASURIQU'L-ADHKAR-AT AsIKHABAD FAGE PRAYER OF JESUS. "And all Mine are Thine, and Thine are Mine, and I am glorified in them. 4' Holy Father keep through thine own Name those whom Thou hast given Me, that they all may be One, as we are " Yf~ither pray I for these alone, but for them also which shall believe on Me through their word: " That they all may be One; as Thou Father, art in Me, and I in'Thee, that they also may be One in us." (John, Chap. xvii., vers. 10, 11, 20.) FOREWORD. testimony and introduction is vnitten under the impelling power of the Spirit, 77 to bearmitness to the Truth of the Reve Of BahA'U'I!Ah. V~th the desire to spread a knowledge of His h jill-w0hin- i the world, it is published as a thank- gs in Verin i dance with the directions of g, in ace-or t,-*Abdu I-Baha', and the kindly help and encourage- Mftt -of confirmed believers in, the BahA'i Cause. ch as it is an introduction, the Sacred of the BahA'i Revelation are quoted with iderence to those of previous Revelations, in order that readers may search for themselves, from those sources, and form their own conclu- sions. Those who do not wish to refer to Prophecy ire asked, for their own sake, and for the sake of the -world, to consider the righteousness of the BahA'i Teachings, and decide after just investiga- tion, whether they do not meet the extreme need of the present day, morally, intellectually, and -spiritually. -_.'--'--Whom say Ye that I am? " was the question which the Spirit put to the individual, througgh Jesus. And some were able to say: " Thou art the Spirit of the living God." Likewise, the Spirit puts that question to us, to-day, through Baha"u'llAh. It is the same ques- I tion, put by the same Spirit, and it is put to the in- dividual. The Spirit cannot be ignored. It comes with power to cast out evil spirits, which are not of It. It knocks at the door of the heart of every in- dividual,- and each one who is. wise will answer his own door to the Spirit, and not leave that to -any other. It is only the spirit within which can -answer the Visitation of the Spirit. For only Spirit can recognise Spirit; and only Reality re- spond to Reality. " All the ways of man are right in his own eyes; but the Lord weigheth the spirits." Spirit sees all and knows all. It does not depend on acquired g cumbersome knowledge which becomes rusty with age, and which is often used as a blind to veil the Truth. That lesser knowledge which only serves 'rime, should never be allowed to obscure the greatest of all know- ledge, which is the Knowledge of God. That is the eternal ' Well of everlasting Life. Whatever their outward privations-m~y be, those who drink from it never thirst. It has power to quench the fires of animosity"; for the hatred and animosity which crucified Jesus are to-day quenched. He is to-day honoured in -every language, and in all regions of the world. Enthroned in all hearts is He. His Teachings are a Standard of Judgment. 'His Life inspires the resurrection of the individual. He reigns in hearts the world over, and will ever reign in His own Station, the Well-Beloved Son of God. St. Paul says: The first-born among many brethren. " 2 be- asked: " Then what more is there to ? " Well, there are the " other things " to I which were not given to Him to say, the 'nine had not come for them to be God protects the-world against premature revelation. -Josus was only sufFered by the- elders to teach for three years. But -could they, by crucifying His body,~ and persecuting His Soul, extinguish the Light of the Spirit? -Apostles, Prophets, Saints and Martyrs answer: 66 NO! 19 Is it, then, to be believed that the elders in this Day can stifle, or ignore, or cover up with their own theories the knowledge of " those - other things," which the same Spirit has uttered so divinely through BahAu']]Ah? Twenty thousand Martyrs, in our own day, for- feiting their lives, have answered: " No! And some are even yet, in 1923, joyfully making191-5 the same reply, because some elders think they can extol themselves by putting God out of the Courts of His own world. If they believe they can, why are not all the history books burnt? Nay, they cannot, for all that the Spirit saith is confirmed, from everlasting to everlasting. And if history books do not teach that , what is the use of them? Spirit ever stands for ]Reality. 3 Many have testified, and are testifying, their faith in the Revelation of Bahi'u'llhh. And it ' that no one person, whatever will be readily seen his or her qualifications or worldly station may be, will ever be able to deal exhaustively, or ade quately, with so great a subject. That is some~ thing for which the world may be grateful, and it is mentioned in order to convey ihe understanding that this present endeavour, inasmuch as it is a testimony, is a testimony of faith, that the writer, after examining the Teachings of PahAVIIAh, and after investigating to some extent, by no means ex- haustively, the Prophecies relating to it, and after bringing the Teaching to bear upon the problems, spititual, moral, intellectual, and social, which to- day exercise her own mind and the mind of the, world - generally, has come to the joyful conclusion that Baha"u'llAh has brought Divine Light to the world, and in This Day is He Whom God hath sent, a Personal Manifestation of His Spirit, even as Jesus was. The pen fails to define the Signifi- cance of His Appearance.In brief, then, this testimony acknowledges Him to be what He claimed to be; as Jesus to-day ishacknowledged to hewhat He claimed to be. Whereas, in the begin- ning, His claim was not openly acknowledged, save by a few. It is hoped that this contribution, made by one without claim to any special ability, may, perhaps for that reason, reach others, who believing, will 4 forego their own, lest 11 the very stoUe$ CrY atio n to propagate the Teaebings Of a on- His disciples, What, we may ask, would be the state of the world, if instead Of spread- a knowledge of them, they had carefully con- hiddeng, and, idolised them? It is not the' lack of knowledge concerning His Teachings, but the failure to practise them, which has brought calamities upon the world. What its conditions would have been had they never been known is unimaginable. Those who ractised them have been the salt of the earth., have p Thisis undeniable. Jesus revealed the Fatherhood d; and throughout His life., which is from all of Go eternity, has prayed, and has taught men to pray,, for the 0 g of the Father's )Cingdom on earth, e c. min as it is in heaven. I The subject dealtwith, being of vital importance to the happiness of the whole world, should in- terest all people, whatever their Religion, - or Race, or Nation. And as this becomes evident, readers will know, that apology for not presenting it would be more in place than any explanation for doing so. A Revelation comprehending all previous Reve lations is given to the world by Bah u . The quintessence of which is : that all Revelations of the Truth, past and present, are in Harmony. '9 lllhh 5 Although many persecutions were heaped upon Him by worldly despots, Bahi'u'llih has, during 40 years of Exile and 'confinement, recorded the ut- terance of the Holy Spirit in the rich and melodious languages of Persia and Arabia. In face of all opposition He has bequeathed to the world the Treasury of the Divine Will for this New Age. And it is- very necessary that those within and with- out the* Churches, of every Religion, should know what the Spirit saith unto them To-day. The Divine Will for To-day is revealed in the Sacred Iffritings of BahA'u'llih, and expounded in the Tablets of the Greatest Branch. -Those Writ- ings are gradually being translated into English and other languages, and will be translated into -the Universal auxiliary language; and when the world becomes fully aware of them, they will be as eagerly read as the Holy Books preceding them; for they prescribe the Divine Remedy for the Re- ligious, Social, and Industrial troubles of our day. There are many in the world to-day who, while perceiving the need of Unity, are frankly confess- ing the lack of spiritual power so essential to it. To bring about Unity, even in any one Religion or Nation, seems to them a stupendous and impos- sible task. -Whereas, the reason for their depres- sion and failure is that their aim is not great enough. It is incomplete. For the Oneness of all is the Truth of the matter, and knowledge of that Truth, the only Key to Hannony: glimpses of 6 True have been revealed by theProphets and with the capa- ~~ations of God, in accordance t , - f the world's the Age, at different stages o as j~.w what Jesus thoughtof those wbo could read the "Signs of their own times- .9 9 Of what -tberefore, is it for us to read off ',~,,t rulers - and their kingdoms and o anci re to heed-the Prophets- '11iriough their failu ~stations of the if we. heed not the zr dayl Wild e I ssage of God in our own? To-day the test is Religion has been giVe-n to the world to te Unity; but ffirough the perpetuation of vain rtml i1twitions, superstitions, and blind dogmas, which given .-inthi course of time have obscured the Light --luccessive Revelation I s, Religion, through mis nding, has often been the cause of divi- ?.-iio j ns, persecutions, and strife. Even in this Cause, stands so clearly for the promotion of Unity 101d Brotherhood, some, as already mentioned, are sa - crificing their lives, because opposers in their blind desire to suppress it, instead of proving them- - to be temples of the living God. have become whited sepulchres," even as Jesus found in av, when through lack of spiritual insight, who should have welcomed, crucified Him. The world is largely unconscious of the Divine Drama which has been witnessed since the appear- &nee of the BAb and is still being witnessed by angels in heaven and on, earth, yet " He that watcheth over Israel slumbereth not, nor sleeps',f~ while to these things, many in the world, and of it, - are heedless,, or rushing to and fro after ephemeral things. There are millions of Jews, Christians, and Mu- bammadans in the world, and it is not possible, either'by argument, persuasion, or the sword, to get them to reject one Religion for another. But it is possible for them all to arrive at the under- standing that the aim of the Founders of all.these Religions is One and the same; and that they each serve specifically an Age in the progressive order of the Divine Plan to create Harmony in the world. They are the Supreme Concourse, moved by the Spirit, to promote Unity. How pitiful, then, are the misunderstandings which have blinded their followers to such an extent that they have perse- cuted each other most cruelly, believing it to be in theirn Names! Since each has given Light in accordance with the capacity of the Age, and has pointed to further Revelation in the fulness of time to come; surely it is the disposition to idolatrV which has blinded ihe world to the simple truth of the continuity of revelation. When it is seen and understood, all will cease to worship the Lamp, and abolishing prejudices, be able to walk in the Light of Oneness, and glorify God by " consorting with each other with fragrance," as to-day BahA'U' llAh exhorts them to do. 8 75 U-- So, coming in the power of-the Spirit, BaWL 4 4-h.-lends, the veils of supemtition aumder, fidEds Prophecy of Religion, -and revealing-- its Inner ing banishes religious - pre4oses the Harmony of the Divine -Plan. throw stones at each 11is is not a time for us to j~4&9 for "God's Mercy is our need, and our aid in wo rld and in the Day of Judgment."' We the Day of Judgment, -when ve iving now in J 41that which pertains to one I time cannot be extended -* t ~ m o another. But it is also the Day of Resurrec- 4a Vion and Reconciliation, and a " New heaven and n ew earth " will appear to the understanding. . th Stars of Certainty. For-the heavens of ~*a wi 99 W--the past are" rolled-up as a scroll,, andtheSpirit -th Lo, I make all things New." May the hearts and minds of the children of the om be quickened, that they may know of the 'My in which they live, and knowing it, be enabled t~ set aside all that would hinder them from enter -that for which they have now for a long time prayed : so that they may not stand with those who it. but be with those who lift up their voices gd drejoice in: The Glad Tidings of the coming of the Father's Kingdom on Earth." 9 B CHRIST'S ENTRANCE INTO JERUSALEM: And when He was come nigh even now at the Mount of Olives, the whole multitude of the dis- ciples began to rejoice and praise God with a loud voice for all the migghty works which they had seen, saying: h " Blessed is the King that cometh in the Name of the Lord. Peace in heaven, and glory in the highest. " And some of the Pharisces from among the multitude said unto Him: "Master, rebuke Thy disciples. And He answered, and said unto them: If these should hold their peace, the stones would immediately cry out." Jesus to Jerusalem: 0 Jerusalem, JerusalemY which killest the Prophets, and stonest them that are sent unto thee; how often would I have gathered thy children together, as a hen doth gather her chickens, under her wings, and Ye would not! " Behold your house is left desolate: and verily .I say unto you, Ye shall not see Me, until the time come when Ye shall say, Blessed is He that cometh in the Name of the Lord. " (The Gospel according to Luke.) 10 'BAHA'U'LLAH TO CHRISTIANS: '~Proclaim: Surely the Father hath come and ih fidfilled that whereunto you were promised in Kingdom of God. - -This is the woTd which the veiled when He said to those around Him that could not bear it; but when the stated tiime ended and the Hour arrived, the Word shone from the Horizon of the Will-. Beware, 0 Concourse of the Son, cast it not Ye, but hold thereunto! . . . . This -Light hath appeared from the Orient and hath -journeyed toward the Occident until it came unto .thee in these Latter Days." , Verily,He the Son beareth witness to~Me,-and I bear witness to- Him Then tell Me: Do the, children know the Father and confess Him? Or do they contradict Him as the people contradicted Him before? "In this Day it behoveth you to proclaim in this Greatest Name among the Nations. Do you choose to be silent whilst trees and stones are call- ing out in the loudest voice Surely the Lord hath come, the Possessor of Great Glory ! Veri7y,. We have opened unto you the Gates of the Kingdom; Are ye closing the door of your houses before MY Face? " Lawh-el-Aqdas," Bahd'u'lld,h's Message to Christians.) 11 THE LORD OF HOSTS. ". THUS, SPEAKETH THE LORD OF HOSTS, SAYING, BEHOLD THE MAN WHOSE NAME IS THE BRANCH -. AND HE SHALL GROW UP OUT OF HIS PLACE, AND HE SHALL BUILD THE TEMPLE OF THE LORD: EVEN HE SHALL BUILD THE TEMPLE OF THE LORD; AND HE SHALL BEAR THE GLORY, AND SHALL SIT A." RULE UPON HIS THRONE: AND THE COUNSEL Of PEACE SHALL BE BETWEEN THEM BOTH." (Zechariah, Chap. 6, ver. 11) THE GREATEST BRANCH. " WHEN THE OCEAN OF MY PRESENCE BATH EBBED AND THE BOOK OF MY ]REVELATION IS COM- PLETED, TURN YOUR FACES TOWARDS HIM WHOM (' OD HATH PURPOSED, WHO HATH BRANCHED FROM THIS ANCIENT RoOT." (Bahd'u'lldh, Kithbu'l-Aqdas.) a 'ABDU'L-BAHA THE GREATEST BRANCH CENTRE OF THE COVENANT AMONG THE NATIONS. 'ABDU'L-BAHA PROCLAMATION OF I ABDU'L.BAHA. 0 PEOPLE! THE DOORS OF THE KINGDOM ARE OPENED! THE WATERS OF LIFE HAVE GUSHED FORTH. . TmsIS ANEW CYCLE OF IlumANPowER! ALL THE HORIZONS OF THE WORLD ARE LUMINOUS: AND THE WORLD WILL BECOME INDEED AS AGARDEN AND A PARADISE. IT IS THE HOUR OF THE'UNITY OF THE SONS OF MEN, AND THE DRAWING TOGETHER OF ALL CLASSES. THE GIFT OF GOD TO THIS ENLIGHTENED AGE, is THE KNOWLEDGE OF THE ONENESS -OF MANKIND, AND OF THE FUNDAMENTAL ONENESS OF RELIGION. THE LIGHT OF KNOWLEDGE HATH APPEARED BEFORE WHICH THE DARKNESS OF EVERY SUPERSTI- TIOUS FANCY WILL BE ANNIHILATED. THE WORLD WILL BE SEEN AS A NEw WORLD, AND ALL MEN WILL LIVE AS BROTHERS. WAR SHALL CEASE BETWEEN NATIONS, AND BY THE WILL OF GOD THE MOST GREAT PEACE SHALL COME. 15 THE UNIVERSAL BAHA'l TEMPLE THE FIRST MASFMQUgLADiiKkR WAS BUILT Al Ism-ABAD (CALLED BY THERussiANs AsKuABAD), IN RUSSIA. 0111 THE PAGE FOLLOWING IS A PICTURE OF THE SECOND BAnAl TEMPLE, OR MASH~ RIQU'L-ADIIKAR, TO BE BUILT ON THE SHORES OF LAKEMICHIGAN, CHICAGO, ILL.,U.S.A. DESIGN By Louis J. BOURGEOIS. " IN FORM THE 'fEMPLE IS NINE-SIDED. FROM DOME TO FOUNDATION IT IS A UNIQUE CREATION. IT IS SAID BY EXPERT ARCHITECTS TO REPRESENT THE FIRST ORIGINAL IDEA IN ARCHITECTURE SINCE THE 13TH CENTURY. IN GEOMETRIC ORNAMENTATION IT IS SAID TO CONTAIN ALL THE RELIGIOUS SYMBOLS OF THE WORLD. BUT MORE THAN ALL THIS, THE NOBLE SYMBOL OF THE SPIRITUAL ORE, OR SUN BEHIND TIM SAVIOUR OF MANKIND. THE WONDERFUL NINE- POINTED STAR, FIGURING IN THE STRUCTURE OF THE 'rEMPLE ITSELF, AND APPEARING AGAIN AND AGAIN IN ITS ORNAMENTATION, AS SIGNIFICANT OF THE SPIRI- TuALGLORY IN THE WORLD TO-DAY. THETEMPLE WILL BE A PLACE OF WORSHIP FOR ALL MANKIND. ITS DOORS WILL NEVER BE CLOSED. NoPRIESTROOD WILL EVER OFFICIATE WITHIN ITS WALLS. ABOUT IT WILL BE GARDENS AND FOUN- TAINS. BEYOND THESE, A SERIES OF BUILDINGS DEVOTED TO THE APPLICATION OFTRUE RELIGION To LIFE. ONLY WORSHIP AND PRAISE CAN BE VOICED IN THE TEmpix ITSELF." (-T,iterary Digest, Aug. 1920.) 1 16 THE FIRST MASFlRIQU'L-ADHK,~R TO BE BUILT IN AMERICA, WILLM-ETTE, CHICAGO, ILL. FOUNDATION STONE LAID f BY 'ABDU'L.BAHA, MAY Ist. 1912. MASHRIQU'L-ADHK~R. ttDS OF BAHA'U'LLAH FROM KITABUT-AWAS. AvONCOURSE OF CREATION! 0 PEOPLE 1 TSES) IN THE MOST STRUCT HOMES (OR 110t *-UFUL FASHION POSSIBLE IN EVERY CITY, IN IAND, IN THE NAME OF THE LORD OF RELI- ,a. ADORN THEM WITH THAT WHICH BE- OTH THEM-NOT WITH PICTURES AND PAINTINGS. 4-HEN COMMEMORATE THE LORD, THE MERCIFUL, CLEXIENT, IN SPIRIT AND FRAGRANCE. VERILY, ENTION, BY THIS COMMEMORATION, THE HALL BE DILATED, I'HE EYES GLADDENED, SHALL YE PRAY THE ORIENT OF PRAJSES A~HRIQU'L ADUKAR (I.E. THE SOURCE OF ACH YOUR CHILDREN WHAT HATH BEEN REVEALED BY THE SUPREME PEN. INSTRUCT TUM IN WHAT RATH DESCENDED FROM THE HEAVEN ok GREATNESS AND POWER. LET THEM MEMORIZE -THETABLETS OF THE- MERCIFUL AND CHANT THEM -WITH THE MOST MELODIOUS VOICES IN THE GAL- LERIE S BUILT IN TIIETE-MPLF, OF THE MASHRIQU'L : ':!JjW His M STS S &ND THUS M S E S) AILHKAR. THE PRAYERS OF THE LORD SHALL BE CHANTED IN A MANNER TO ATTRACT HEARTS AND SOULS. "BLESSED IS HE WHO LISTENS TO THE RIVER OF LIFE! " 19 ALLAH'U'ABHA! He who inviteth the people in My Name, he is of Me." (BahiVIUh.) YOU Shan put crowns on their heads: -crowns set with brilliant jewels-which shine like stars: crowns of everlasting gbrightness that will nat fall off." ( 'Abdu'l-1BahA.) THE REVELATION OF BAHAIU'LLAH IS UNITY TRIUMPHANT SATISFACTION. XYmay be assumed that in the different schools of Religious thought through which we have passed e hav in them all sought spiritual, satisfaction: and in our travels we have found at times that we have had to let some things go in order to receive the satisfaction which belongs to fuller pastures. Probably, in all fields of search we have found something we could not let go, because, being true, it belongs to them all. Truth is indivisible: And though our journey towards understanding necessitates separation from that which is not true, in the end we shall perceive it leads to Unity: for the things we have to let go are merely our prejudices-or the preju- dim of other people-against a further knowledge Of it. Truth is also satisfaction: And the utmost satis- factibn is to be found in the Teachings of w e 21 BahAVIIAh. They are a Lighthouse of Spiritual Guidance to those of all Religions, who are crying out for that promised Light, which is the special need of this Age: for many know, and confess, they have it n6t.. The Revelation' of BahA'u'llih is not exclusive. Coming to those who worship God under different Names, and to those who accept no Religion, it fulfils the Prophecies of God, and meets the highest social aspirations of Humani- tarianism. Securing all that is of the highest sight, Bahk'u'llAh saves Religion from drowning in the Sea of Names : and elevates the Host by distin- guishing the Light from the lamp which holds it, calling upon all to worship God only. " There is no God, but God," says Muhammad, and all the Prophets with one accord have ex- claimed: " Glory be-to God!" So the First Com- mandment of Moses is confirmed in every New Dispensation ofht-he Spirit, to keep mankind in the straight Path of accomplishment, away from the ruts of fruitless idolatry. In this Day of the Lord, BahAVIIAh brings essential Laws to establish the 'Kingdom of God, on Earthl in order that the Glory of God may be- come manifest before all eves. The Name of BahAVIIAh stands for the Glory of God. For this Jesus Fived, and He suffered crucifixion, because religious men took offence at His claim to be the Son of His Heavenly Father. 22 7Bahh'i Revelation is the Qiblih* of Salva- j~ the whole world, did the world but know it: ~vho do know it, be they Christians, ~:-Muslims, Zoroastrians, Buddhists, or those are at last finding that their preju- woi Re 1isap i the Light gof the Sun of Truth rear n has again arisen with great brilliance in the st Horizon of intelligence, in our own Day, bling all to meet in the Spiritual Heavens of ding' as friends and lovers, " of one nd in a house."' We have no great& Scriptural proof than that to be found in " Hidden Words " (Balift'u'llih), that not merely satisfaction is intended, but that Vur Creator bespeaks joy and gladness, for all who CO - -operate in the natural and spiritual laws of the universe. 's Laws are established in the God of things, have been expounded by His phets, and are written in the Sacred Scriptures all Religions, arid all the " free thought " in world cannot cha nge those Laws. The Truth cannot be 'Overt-hrowiil- and nobody is wise who thinks contrary to- it. BahAVIIAh assures each individual of God's Love, and of the ecstatic joy of life, which enables those who keep His Laws to A-1. rise triumphantly glorious, even over death itself. For fulness of life in God's Kingdom, on earth, and throughout eternity, is the prophecy of the Religion of God. .*"Qiblih," the Point to which devoted ones turn in reverence, as Christians to the East. 23 In an elementary Persian text book, used in schools, it is written, " Justice half Religion is." The same little book states as a proof of God's Love to individuals, that He gives to each " a Mother." This proof none can misunderstand, for it is not a mere matter of words. It is written 'in many Scriptures that " God is Love," and by the power of His Spirit, many have sacrificed their lives to prove that Faith. If then, Justice is half Religion, the other half must be Mercy and Generosity: for it is God the Merciful, the Generous, the Giver, Who through BaWu'llkh addresses each one of His children with the utmost Divine Love and Courtesy: - 0 SON OF SPMrr 1 Justice is loved above all. Neglect it not if thou desirest Me- By 1t thou wilt be strengthened to perceive things with thine own eyes and not with the eyes of men, to know them by thine own knowledge, and ~not by the knowledge of any in the world. Meditate on this-how thou oughtest to be. Justice is of My Bounty to thee, and of My Proavidence over thee; therefore keep it ever before thy si ht. Stg Seeing then, God's Love in the nature of things, hearing of it through His Holy Prophets, and each experiencing it through a Mother's love, should we be irresponsive to the wonderful bounty of God? Since Justice enables us to see things with 24 215 our own eyes, it should be clear to the fairminded that the satisfaction which we seek in God and in each other, is inh all things provided, and should be'met -with recognition, responsive generosity, and true thankfulness -on our part. Satisfaction, joy, and gladness will become indi- -vidual and universal experience, when all arise from the bed of indifference, and by the power of the Spirit of God, decide to take and to offer to others the overflowing Cup of Generosity which Bahi'u'llih offers toh Humanity, to-day. The Day of Grace' inaugurated by Jesus, has had a long spell of centuries and has suffered con- siderable abuse. And it will be r,6membered that He was aware it would be so ; for when it was suggested by His disciples that the goodly disposed should be separated from the evil doers, He re- -Plied: " Let- both grow together until the Harvest. " This Day is the Harvest of the seed-sowing of hMoSeS, Jesus, Muhammad, and of all the Mani- festations and Prophets of God before them, when the wheat will be gathered into the bam of reality, ~and the chaff scattered by the winds of circum- stance, or discarded as stubble. All that is not of reality will perish in the realms of forgetfulness, or God willing, become purified in the fires of remorse. The Call of the Kingdom is Now! Now is the accepted tignic 1 I DIVINE PRINCIPLES THE FOUNDATION -AND TRUTH OF BEING. XT is now over fifteen years since the writer of this grateful testimony was attracted by the Holy Fragrances of Bahh'u'llih, through a handful of His followers, who at that time, met at the Higher Thought Centre, in London. A room had been engaged there for the purpose of expounding the Bahk'i Teachings, and many were the questions put by earnest students to Miss Ethel J. Rosenberg, who had made the pil- griniage to Acca, and having sojourned in the home of the Master, had many beautiful stories to tell of His constant kinaness to all around Him, as - well as much important Teaching to impart, which she herself had received direct from Him. The beautiful and indefinable spirii peculiar to the llahA'i Dispensation was always evident in those gatherings, and through our persistent questioning some of us sought, and found, intellectual satisfac- tion, as well. Most of the Teaching given at the -Higher Thought Centre was of the nature of practical modern metaphysics, pertaining to healing, and individual and general welfare. It was based on the hypothesis of Divine Principles as the origin, foundation, permanence, and Truth of Being, and as aid to individual perception of Truth. 26 "Me Bahi'i Teachin 9, however, related to Pro is recognized as coming through a Personal .~Westation, a life-giving, -and unifying Spiritual or Revealer- of the Divine Will. It was pre- as coming through a Personal Revealer, as 0. ; Christian, Moammadan, and all the great ions have come ;-'but with the important, and G-Dine,, surprising claim, that'It comes to u~nite all! It, therefore, is a manifest spiritual ence, which can be known and experienced ,l qz- individual participation., So the bountiful of its claim to promote Unity may be a ience, a , of personal exper's well as'of intel -pouring tetual reeption; for it is a Divine out pe the. Spirit to meet the- needs of Humanity, and rs its own sacrificial proof to demonstrate its In. Coming io unite, it cannot proselytise. briefest aim being to enable all to perceive the eness of God, of Humanity, and of Religion, and to ensure to the world the Most great Peace. -This is not contrary to the clearest perception of- both ancient and modern Seers. It was natural that this magnanimous claim should excite persistent questions, for some were present who thought they had found Truth in a Measure delightfully entrancing in one or other -of' the differ gent presentations of Metaphysical teaching. We thought we bad found the " Truth of Being,"* and were happy in saying a joyful good-bye to the "worm," and "miserable sinner" * ("Truth of Being." Grace Western). 27 ideas which - had too long hampered our spirit in the name of theology. So being set free from all that, and believing the Truth had set us freep: w rejoiced in a study of Divine Principles, with th: understanding that they were for current expres- sion-in all personalities. There was no mere " divine immanence," or 44 spark " of divinity within us, not in our concep- tion of ourselves, such as is now conceded by theology, but potentially, the complete I I image and likeness " as stated in Scripture, which is natural and common between Father and Son, just waiting to be discovered and demonstrated, as bit by bit we unwrapped ourselves from the mental (4 swaddling clothes " which bound us; so it was with irth right, that we claimed our kinship with the Almighty."* The study of Divine Principles had setus free from the meshes of theology, and given us a deeper insight into the Teachings of Jesus. We took Him to be the Word, the Light, the Truth, and the Way of Life, expressed Personally, to lighten the Path of His followgers throughout the Christian Era; sufficient, until the further Light which He promised in the fulness of Time, should Come. For the II Spirit within us " bore testimony to the fact, that He had demonstrated His Divine quali- ties to the utmost; and since we per-ceived, and con-ceived ourselves to be the children of the stefeld) The Bailder and the Plan." Ursula N. Ge 28 a 46 reverent recognition of our Divine 1) - Heavenly Father, we saw no reason why we also should -not grow in grace, " to the measure of the stature of the fulness of Christ," as Jesus did. of course, in His StationP or-in such exalted in history. That would be impossible! For wi~ ~ each have our own place, as -He said: " In Xy Father's House are many mansions: I go, to 9 prepare a place for you. How lovable and tender this assurance concern- ng the Heavenly Kingdom, into which, through His own mind, Jesus,so graciously permitted His disciples to peep! What sweet consideration, to 4ssure us of rich inheritance in the Father's Name! Have we another Friend, who doing for us what did., could leave us so tenderly, so nobly, and ivith such selfless fortitude to prepare a place for - - It would be sin -against the Holy Spirit, if did not answer " Yes,," as well as " NO." For s- Spirit has bome fruit in many lives. Others willingly suffered cruel death and torture for our sake, and for the sake of righteousness, because -the tree of God's planting must bear fruit, and the Manifestations of God in each Visitation are the growth of centuries, watered and strengthened by the Heavenly breezes of eternal Divine utter- -alice, and sustained by food some " know not of." always bear the fruits of reality, and they ,lever mock one by unacceptable propositions. So the children of the Kingdom have now a 0ace 6 9 prepared for them," and may no more be ,deceived or kept in ignorance of their Divine birth- 29 C right. ~ We find that in the heart of God there is a place for every one, and Glory be to Him I The His Kingdom, is Now! Call to The purpose of this endeavour is that Some who may read will become interested in that Call. For it is to those 'who know not of it these words are written, in the hope that their keen interest will be aroused in the Sacred Writings of their own Day, and in the Divine Laws revealed through the Supreme Pen Of Bahi'u'llhh- His Call to the Kingdom, is Now! I-lave we heard it? What is our reply? Do we pass it on, or remain deaf and dumb? The Kingdom of Heaven cannot be controlled by selfish seekers after their own glory. The most honourable places are filled-by those who can drink the Cup of Sacrifice. Let -us take a -time of reverent silence, alone, som / etimes, in remembrance of those who have drunk that Cup for us, if we cannot do so in the fellowship Remembrance, to which their Sacred Hearts invited us. . We may not abase ourselves before Them. That is not what They came for. Such abase- ment has been in the past one of the greatest religious mistakes, and contrary to the spirit of resurrection : for They have ever called us to fellowship with the Highest. There has never been any discourtesy from Them, to us. Quite the contrary. They are blind imitators who feign- ing obeisance, teach others to abase themselves; but the holy, loving, and devoted reverence which 30 understanding, and real cannot be sisters in-the Heavenly tIlviort -walked this earth He was known as the Son of God, and men gnashed their a claim. It was accounted blas- P otten -at- such .Amy in those dark days, but now, it is taken as ,!iwatter of course'. For the first word in the ~rd's Prayer changed all that, ' and now we know to deny the Heavenly Father, is Teal blas- ftat there should be children of the Spirit, was r :J hard for men to understand. Hence theologi .gth~i abrications and the interminable discussions who affirm, and those who deny, ivinity of Christ! immaculate conception takes place in the Wh -en we are born of the Spirit, and is the tion which we have of ourselves and each er. There is a little clarifying verse which run.,;: Though Christ in Bethlehem a thousand times be born, e nd, ncep -If Ile's not born in you, your hope is all for- lorn. a The example of Jesus is naturally and essen- tially the judgment, the resurrection, and the life 31 of us all. For by His life He brought us into con- scious active communion with the Father, proved the resurrection of His Spirit, and thus gave us. everlasting Life. Early acquaintance with- the Balia"i Teachings.. will naturally, in a Christian country, find many-so entranced by the beatific vision of Jesus, which makes clear such 'possibilities for the children of men, that they may hesitate to examine their own Scriptures concerning ihe present-day Revelation, which in them, is promised, 'Bugt it is hoped, that when they remember Jesus promised it, they can- not refrain from examining the matter. For surely, all must soon become aware that the Light of Divine Intelligence illumines the path of humanity with resplendent beauty, in our own day. To turn aside from it is to court disaster, and to become lost in the labyrinths and cross-currents of mental confusion; for it is the Be-appearance of that Spiritual Light, which lighteth the whole world. It awakens the individual consciousness to a knowledge of divine origin, and so con- firms the claim of Jesus, Plato, and Socrates; and is the Divine response in the nature of things-- to the need of this bewildered world. 32 RELIGIOUS FREEDOM. HROUGHOUT the 19th century " Free- dom was the -parrot cry of the unthink- ing majority, and the constant watchword high-minded men : yet this common cry did of itself bring about political freedom to 'women. Women had to claim it. With many, freedom became little more than a fetish, or a licence', a sort of beautiful doll which grown-up people liked to play with, and which often led them into chains; as idolatry of any kind ,always does. We know actually gone so far as to say, they would rather see England " free " than " sober " I Though it -is clear there will not be much freedom worth having for any country which does not get free from the ravages of strong drink. And good patriots of every land who have worked in the face of ignominy to set humanity free from it, will re- joice to know that it is a BahA'i -Precept that " alcoholic liquor shall not be used as a beverage"; for it has blighted many a brilliant career, and -wrecked the happiness of millions of homes. Notwithstanding the many blessings of freedom, which last century has bequeathed to this, the abuse of it bas left us with such an undesirable crop of conditions, that the special work of this 20th cen- tury which is the work of establishing Unity and 33 some statesmen have Harmony, is exceedingly difficult : so difficult, that without clear Spiritual Guidance, such a task could not be. accomplished. There are many organisations on foot to-day, which, representing only partial good, gather their armies together to attain supremacy and prefer- ence over organisations representing other partial good. The natural result being that there is chaos and unnecessary hardship for many good people in their efforts for religious, political, social and in- dustrial reform. Though as St. Paul told us, " all things work together for good to those that love God. " And Baha"u'llkh looking out on such a world of confusion, has declared in the Name of God, that Religious, Political, Social, and Indus- trial prejudices must be abolished. rhis will mean the abolition of much futile slavery on the part of those who wish to save the world from destruction by inadequate means. For those who advocate them have often in the past been known to be cynical concerning the efforts of other people, not knowino, that all good is One. Temperance societies, for instance, have ignored Industrial questions. Socialism has scorned Religion as fraudulent, and Relilgion repudiated Socialism as materialistic. And it cannot be denied that each has had a measure of truth in its objections. This only proves the impartiality of Truth, which can- not be seen with a biassed mind. When belong- ing to more than one organisation for reform, many a time have the hearts of some been stabbed 34 cynicism of personal friends, who showing ful prejudice have rendered conversation le. possib are no child of mine," have fathers been o say to their children, " if you do not be- -ve 9~ this, or that. Or, " out of my house'you 90, if you refuse to fetch my beer." And children o would have refused to go for beer, have had to h 90 to the tap room for their father, because their mother's heart was breaking. Such episodes do not help children to keep the Fifth Commandment 4, of Moses. Alas! the hopes of many fathers even to-day are centred on the turf, and their minds concentrated on the beer glass; because, as the late Venerable Dean of Peterborough (one time Vicar of St. 'Matthews, Leicester,*) used then so clearly to ex- plain with emphasis: "'Gambling is a desireJo VLoAC_4y_a_nothces loss. How can anybody keep the Commandments of God who claims the right of freedom in un- brotherly indulgences? Those who try can only supply instances of the folly of making a god of "Freedom," which like some other things, is good for good purposes and bad for bad ones. Many to-day regard the honour of the turf as in- violate, and dismiss God as fictitious, and Tre there- You wn t fore unaware of their duty to their own children or to the mother of them. It is amazing that self- respecting persons can turn away from that which *The Rev. William Clavell ingtami. 35 a I is really honourable, and belittle their own intelh- gence by gextolling honour which is a fictitious affair, and, with the enemies of society, dismiss all consideration of their solemn obligations made in the presence of witnesses, h to their own chosen partners in life. -I It is a pity there areboth men and women who so delude themselves. May the spirit of understanding open the eyes of any who have not seen the truth in such matters. 66 A man's only -bondage is his word," says the Prophet Jeremiah, and it is for each to decide to whom he gives his word. He can give it to the truest and best of Friends, or to the Tempter. His Creator is benign, -and it is ordained in theg nature of things that Man has, for a test, the freedom of choice. 36 E SPIRIT OF COMPETITION. "HERE has been in times past, and very properly, a great outcry against the fierce- ness of industrial competition. * Often it made many of us ask: " Are we on earth, or hell? And Kingsley, who was not him- tortured in the mills of industry, has wondered ehalf of his fellows, " if there will be any com- tition in hea ven? 9. of course, that heaven is a condition of mind, that it is essentially communal dividualistic., the reality within should nces without, and it would not then competition could have any place. The BahVi doctrine that work done faithfully in .9 spirit of service is acceptable as an act of worship, seems to dispose of the spirit of competition, -and .by giving a benevolent incentive to heavenlier graces, it suggests not only industrial harmony, but industrial delight, and the -possibility of bringing realisation the blessed benediction: Peace ils b FL:~anntd d not in , 9k, ow evi e m that into n earth, and Goodwill towards men. What- vi er one s religious, social, or political views may e, no one would object to that most desirable state _-of things. How much stronger, how much more capable we are, when happy in our work! Surely 37 such practicable demonstration of Religion would win the adherence of all men, and very soon make atheism, anarchy and rebellion obsolete; for -we are raised by our ideals, and such thoughts would then have no place in the common mind; therefore honest lovers of humanity should not scoff at idealists, for " High aims overleap the- bounds of low' successes." We are brothers and'sistersi and if we have not attained perfection, we shall inci- dently help each other by aiming at it. There are worlds of endeavour to conquer, which would give men a rest from conquering each other. Competition lets loose the wolf spirit, and though " all the ways of man are right, in his own eyes; the Lord weigheth the spirits." The spirit of envy, jealousy, and selfishness is engendered by competition; yet these are forbidden and despised, and incompatible with peace. Spiritually, em0- tionally and psychically, competition is unmerciful, unjust, vainglorious and unsound : a satanic de- vice to oppress the souls of men. It has resulted in riches being heaped up superfluously upon the few, and too often left many deprived of the bare means of existence. Even the young, in some countries, have been known to commit suicide, be- cause failure to pass examinations in " the clumsy dust of ancient knowledges " has doomed them to military service and despair. They have preferred not to live, rather than to live under such cruel and insane conditions. To do one's utmost in the way of service and attainment should satisfy 38 reasonable beings-but to be always wanting to other people is to rob life of its:courtesies ~graces. ndu strial competition savours too much of coni- Ision, takes the poetry out of life, and robs in- -duals of the right to serve each other peacefully their own free-will. It deprives them of their in making the very universe ring with joy. e joy of satisfaction-to be experienced by all : en we shall have no more pins without points, ~no matches that will not light, no pencils which break away refusing to be sharpened; and no boots and shoes which cripple us. Pure food and g.ino substitutes; beautiful fruit.' nuts, and other foods, which will make everybody forget ''aleoholic beverages without iegret. For, in seek7 ina first the Kinadom of God and His righteous- ness, we are told by Him in Whom we believe, "I that " all things which we need, will be added unto US, in measure pressed down and running over, be- d anything which we can think, or speak." -That, we g know, is the generous promise of ". - But alas! The ravages of competition have not only been evident in industry. In Science, Art, Literature, and even in Religion itself, the desire of the false to attain glory, and to dominate the true, has also been known. It is unnecessary to dwell upon it. But in this time of re-construction ive should see to it that the true, in all lines of activity, shall prevail. God is one. Humanity is One. The Founda- 39 tion of the Religion of God is One. - Therefore all efforht, whether it be religious, political, social, in- dustrial, or humanitarian-should be directed with due appreciation and regard to that , Divine Economy which has made all things One. Other- wise, heavenly zeal is consumed. Competitive effort is selfish, separative, unsatisfactory, and is not in accord with the Divine Policy which cares for all, provides for all, and comprehends all. For Truth being One and indivisible, spiritual values cannot be used in a spirit of rivalry and in- dependence under separate banners, through failure to appreciate their relation to each other and to the Source from which they spring; any more than fractions can be used without regard to their rela-. tive value to each other and to the Whole Number which governs them. But it is not all, we gratefully remember, who would trifle with the Oneness of natural and spiritual Law. Some there are who agonise even now in conflicting organizations which cry out like locusts for sustenance: ~vhile many are broken in the endeavour to support them. And this is bound to happen when that which is partly true does not relate itself with the whole. The wise and the honest relate themselves with the whole Truth. George Washington must have felt this, when he exclaimed: " Let us raise a Standard to which the wise and the honest can repair. The Event is in the hands of God." If memory serves correctly those words are inscribed on the Arch 40 which one passes from Washington uare, into Fifth Avenue, New York. There the -rich have repaired. And it is hoped that the iieh -in this world's goods will hasten to become the wisest and most honest of people, that they may the feat which the Lord Christ said: " is more difficult than the passing of a camel through a needle's eye.", There are rich in all lands.. even the poorest of lands. And when so many are in -,extreme need, this requires explanation. The Call of the Kingdorn is to all, rich and poor, to " Put their hands into God's Treasury Ahat He may lift His head radiantly above all their treasures." (Ba hk'u'llih, in " Hidden Words. When the rich cease to oppress the poor because all have inscribed George Washington's standard on heart and mind, we shall see the endeavour for one Financial standard throughout the world. Then, neither the dollar, nor the pound, the franc, the mark, or the rupee, will have advan- tage or disadvantage. For Life is One, and in their relation to each other they all represengt life values. The unfortunate will not always be sub- ject to further misfortune, by becoming the slaves of the money market as they are to-day. - There are different sorts of slave which need to be abolished. We know that many men, in other lands, have shared Washington's aspirations for honest standards in finance, morals, industry, religion, 41 and in all human relationships. But it is not enough to aspire separately. It is necessary for individuals- and nations to aspire together, in order to secure the refreshing fairness in these matters, which is their heart's desire. Melodious individual voices have reverberated through the centuries~, and are now blended into One Voice, which is -calling all to Unity. Jesus yearned in prayer for Unity. The Baha"i Teachings come in answer to that prayer, calling all to gather in thatwhich is the ripe Harvest of His seed-sowing. The Principles of BahA'u'HAh are Pillars of Strength, in establishing Unity. They enable us to see that to be free, is not enough; because Humanity is One Family, and an all-comprehend- ifig glance should enlist the practical-help of every one, in establishing Unity and Harmony the world over. The Human Ideal, should be Harmony and Oneness. Then will all see with God's Sight, and the effort for Unity, will incidentally set indi- viduals free from the greatest of all bondage-the bondage of self. 42 I 'ABDU'I,BAHA INDUSTRIAL UNREST. &J:JBDU'L_BAHA said: "You have ques- tioned me about strikes. This question is and will be the subject of great diffi- culties. Strikes are due to two causes. One is the extreme sharpness and rapacity of the capi- talists and manufacturers : the,other, the excesses, -the avidities, and ill-will of the workmen and arti- san~. It is therefore necessary to remedy these -two causes. But the principal cause of these difficulties lies in the Laws of the present civilization: for they lead to a small number accumulating incomparable -fortunes, beyond their needs, whilst the greater number remains destitute, stripped, and in the greatest misery. This. is contrary to justice, to humanity, to equity; it is the height of iniquity, the opposite to what causes divine satisfaction. g " This contrast is peculiar to the world of man: with other creatures, that is to say with nearly all animals, there is a kind of justice and equality. Thus in a shepherd's flock of sheep, in- a troop of deer in the country, among the birds of the prairie, of the hill, 'or the orchard, almost every animal 43 receives a just share based on equality. With them-such difference in the means of existence is not to be found: so they live in the most complete peace and joy." . " It is quite othenvise with the human species, which persists in the greatest effor, and in absolute iniquity. Consider an individual who has amassed treasures by colonising a country for his profit. He has obtained an incomparable fortune, and has secured profits and incomes which flow like a river, whilst a hundred thousand unfortunate people, weak and powerless, are in need of a mouthful of bread. There is neither equality nor brotherhood. So you see that general peace and joy are destroyed, the welfare of humanity is partly anni- hilated, and that collective life is fruitless. In- deed, fortune, honours, commerce, industry, are in the hands of some individuals, while other people are subject to quite a series of difficuffies and to limitless troubles; they have neithor advantages, nor profits, nor comfort, nor peace." " Then rules and laws should be established to regulate the excessive fortunes of certain private individuals and to limit the misery of millions of the poor masses; thus a certain moderation would be obtained. However, absolute equaliiy is just as impossible, for absolute equality in fortunes, honours, commerce, agriculture, industry, would end in a want of comfort, in discouragement, in disorganisation of the means of existence, and in universal disappointment : the order of the com- 4-1 munity would be quite destroyed. Thus, there is a i great wisdom in the fact that equality is not by law; it is therefore preferable for ion to-do the work. The main point is, by f laws and regulations to hinder the con- stitution of excessive fortunes of certain indi- viduals, and to protect the essential needs of the masses. For instance the manufacturers and the industrials heap up a treasure each day, and the poor artisans do not gain their daily sustenance; that is the height o ' f iniquity, and no just man can accept it.Therefore laws and regulations should be established which would permit the workmen to receive from the factory owners their wages and a share in the fourth or the fifth part of the profits, according to the wants of the factory, and the work and labour from the body of the workmen. In other words the workmen should receive wages Which assure them adequate support, and when they cease work, becoming feeble and helpless, they should receive from the owner of the factory a sufficient pension. The wages should be enough to satisfy the workmen with the amount they receive, so that they may be able to put a little agside for days of want and helplessness." " When matters are thus fixed, the owner of a factory will no longer put aside daily a treasure which he has absolutely no need of; and, the work- men and artisans will no longer be in the greatest misery and want, and will not be subjected to the greatest privations at the end of their life." 46 D Without taking into, consideration -that the fortune is disproportionate, the capitalist succumbs under formidable burdenst and gets - into the greatest diffl6ulties and troubles; the administra- tion of an excessive fortune is very difficult and exhausts man's strength.") " It is then clear and evident that the repartition of excessive fortunes amongst a small number of individuals, while the masses are in misery is an iniquity and an injustice. In the same way abso- lute equality would be an obstacle to life, to wel- fare, to order, and to the peace of humanity. In such a question a just medium is preferable. It lies in the capitalists being moderate in the ac- quisition of their profits, and in their having a consideration for the poor and needy; that is to say, the workmen and artisans -should receive ag fixed and established daily -wage, and have a share in the general profits of the factory." " It would be well,with regard to the social rights of manufacturers, workmen and artisans, that laws be established, giving moderate profits to manufacturers, and to workme n the necessary means of existence and security for the future. Thus, when they become feeble and cease working, get old and helpless, and die leaving children under age, these children will not be annihilated by excess of poverty. And it is from the income of the factory itself, to which they have a right to derive the means of existence." " In the same way, the workmen should no 46 longer rebel and revolt, nor demand beyond thei rights r they should no longe go out on strike, the should be obedient and submissive, and not ask fo impossible wages. But the mutual rights of bot] associated parties will be fixed and establishe according to custom by just and impartial laws. Ii case one Of the two parties should transgress, thE courts of justice would have to give judgment and by an efficacious fine put an end to the transgres- sion; thus order will be re-established, and the diffi- culties settled. The interference of courts of justice and of the Government in difficulties pending be- tween manufacturers and workmen is legal, for the reason that current affairs between workmen and manufacturers cannot be compared with ' ordinary affairs between private persons, which do not con- cern the public, and with which the -Government should not occupy itself. In reality, although they appear to be matters between private persons, these difficulties between e ' mployers and workmen produce general detriment: for commerce, -in- dustry, agriculture and general affairs of the country are all intimately linked together. if one of these suffers an abuse, the detriment affects the mass. Thus the difficulties between workmen and manufacturers become a cause of general detriment. " "The Court of Justice and the Government have therefore the right of interference. When a diffi- culty occurs between two individuals with refer- ence to private rights, it is necessary for a third to 47 settle the question; this is the part of the Govern- ment; then the question of strikes-which causes trouble to. the country and is often connected with the excessive vexations of -the workmen, as well as with the rapacity of manufacturers-how could it remain neglected? " " Good God! Is it possible, that seeing one -of his fellow creatures starving, destitute of every- thing, a man can rest and Eve comfortably in his luxurious mansion? He who meets another in the greatest misery, can he enjoy his fortune? Therefore, in the Religion of God, it is prescribed and established that wealthy men each year give a certain part of their fortune for the main- tenance of the poor and unfortunate. This is the foundation of the Religion of God, and the most essential of the Commandments." While man is not forced by the Government, whenever by the natural tendency of his good heart, and with the greatest mirituality, he makes provision for the poor, it is most praiseworthy, and well pleasing to God and man." " Such is the meaning of the good works in the Divine Books and Tablets."- The aboave discourse on " Strikes," is taken from an " Appendix," to the London 1908 edition of " Some Answered Questions," Collected and Translated from the Persian of 'Abdu'l-Bahd, by 48 Laura Clifford Barney. - It is contained in t4 American edition of 1918.9 but since industrial troubles are world-wide, it ts given here for the benefit of those who might not otherwise know of' the- Solution portrayed by 'Abdu'l-Baha', the Servant of God. 49 THE -BEWARE TABLET. HE Friends of God and Handmaidens of the Merciful must render service to the Oneness of the Human world, and show love and aTmity to all the children of men. They must deal with the utmost devotion, good- will, love, and kindness, towards all Humanity." His Highness, BahAVIIAh, addressing the World says: " Ye are all the leaves of One Tree, the fruits of One Branch." Therefore the law of relationship, brotherhood, kinship, fatherhood and motherhood, is established and proven amongst all the families of the Human Race. tndeavour Ye, with all your heart and soul, so that you may live and act in accordance with the Teachings of Bahh'u'llhh.' To become a shelter and an asylum to every oppressed one; To assist and uplift every vanquished one; To be a skilled physician to every sick one; To bestow a swift healing antidote to every wounded one; To inspire with confidence every fearful one; To grant tranquillity and composure to every agitated one; To gladden the heart of every depressed one; 50 To'bring mirthfulness to every weeping one; To become salubrious water to every thirsty one; To be the cause of glory to every. fallen one; And to be charitable to all the poor. Beware! Beware! Lest ye offend any heart! Beware! Beware! Lest ye hurt any soul! Beware! Beware! Lest ye deal unkindly to- ward any person! Beware! Beware! Lest ye be the cause of hopelessness to any creature! Should any soul become the cause of grief to any one heart.3a or of despondency to any one soul, it were better for him to hide himself in the lowest strata of the Earth, than to walk upon the Earth. Should any so ul desire the abasement of his Kind, undoubtedly nonentity were better for him: his nonexistence better than his existence, and his death better than his life." " Therefore my advice to you is: Endeavour as much as you can to show kindness to all men, to deal with perfect love, affection and devotion with all the individuals of Humanity. Remove from amongst yourselves, racial, patriotic, religious, sectional, political, commercial, industrial, and agricultural prejudices ; so that ye may become the founders of the structures of the Oneness of Humanity. All countries are One country; all nations are the children of One Father. The struggle for existence among the ferocious wolves has become the cause of all these differences, and 51 strifes; otherwise the expanse of the 'World is spacious, and the Table of the Bounties of the Almighty is spread'in all regions." Upon Ye, be Baha El Abha! (Signed) 'ABDU'L-BAuk ABB.As. One can scarcely read this Tablet of BahA'u'- RAh with concentrated attention without being Conscious hthat the Voice of God is calling, or without experiencing a baptism of the Holy Spirit. Some Bahais have called it 11 The Beware Tablet," not only for obvious reasons to be found in the Tablet itself, but perhaps also with an inner knowledge of the necessity of exercising constantly that divine kindness to which we have ever been called-by the Messengers of God, in every Age. To-day, that Call is again made clear by Bahh'u'llAh, the Nightingale of Significances. Divine kindness has been manifested by Him, and has been exemplified in the life of 'Abdu'l-BahA, the Greatest Branch. When that kindness which blends the human with the divine is manifested the world over, from each to all, in accordance with the Divine Exhortation, all will become conscious of the presence of the living God, for we shall in each other, see glimpses of God-likeness, face to face, * Translated by Mirza Ahmad Soltrab, Washington, D.C. Noy. 11, 1910. 52 and be assured of it, by evidences in the lives of each other. Then, indeed, will the Glory of God cover the earth." Have not the Prophets, of every Age proclaimed that " these things shall be ? " God 's Will is good-will to all mankind, and this knowledge should incline all to attune their hearts to the countless melodies of the Divine Message for To-day, and to recognize that the Spirit of THE LORD OF HOSTS -has been manifested in accordance with the ful- filment of Prophecy, and is calling all men to unite under the Banner of Universal Harmony. Divine kindness has been made manifest to the world through Baha'u'llah and I Abdu'l-Baha, the Greatest Branch, even as in former Time, it has - -been manifested by Jesus, the- Christ, Whose teaching and the teaching of the Prophets anticipated the appearance of Bahh'u'llah and 'Abdu'l-BahA in the world. It remains for each and all -of us to manifest good-will to each other by the power of the Spirit which gives life to us all, in order that the Kingdom of God may be realized on Earth. 53 THE UNIVERSALITY OF ETERNAL TRUTH. C','%w* OWARDS the end of His time on Earthl Jesus clearly said there were 6 'other things " which He had to say unto His disciples, which then, they could hnot bear: but that at a time when no man knoweth, " Another would come in the Spirit of Truth, and guide them into all Truth. " He also said when offering the Cup at the Feast of His own Passover, " I will not drink henceforth of this fruit of the vine, until that dhay when I drink it new with you in My Father's Kingdom." (Matt., Chap. 26, ver. 29.) Nearly 2,000 years have passed since those- words were spoken with a meaning which covered the Passing of the Son on the cross- of rejection, and the coming ofh the Father?s Kingdom to establish the Glory of God on Rarth. Yet, free as we have believed ourselves to be, Christians, in common with those of other Reli- gions, have confined themselves to the habit of not looking beyond the Teaching of the Founder of their own Religion-as that Teaching relates to individual salvation. This tendency, together with the disposition to idolatry and place-seeking rather than to obedience, creates a difficulty in accepting further Revelation now, when in accord- 54 V ance with the necessities of the Time it has become due, and the inclination to dismiss Prophecy with its broader scope as something belonging to the realms of uncertainty, has hidden the all-embrac- in'g Purpose of Religion from view. So we may not forget, that Truth is indivisible. We must know that it is the Spirit of Truth which moves the Prophets and Saviours of the world to deliver the IT iversal Messages of God. They _1 n always invite individual co-operation: therefore Prophecy cannot be dismissed, for it is laden with just and righteous Purpose for the whole of Humanity. The recognition of Divine Universal Principles is necessary to the happiness of individuals and Nations. This knowledge will incidentally bridge that painful difference of opinion between Christians of some dienominations concerning whether they should take an interest in the right- eous government of the world; for application ot the principles of Righteousness to national and international affairs will naturally make it easier for every one to live up to their Religion. Where- as unjust social relationship between individuals or nations deprives many of hope, either in this life or the life to come. Righteous Principles are all-comprehending and will put party politics out of court. To-Day, the commanding Voice of God speaks through BahA'u'lla, and we know it to be the same 'Voice of Righteousness which has spoken 55 through all the Manifestations of God Who have appeared under different Names: from Moses, Abraham, Jesus, or Muhammad, who all saw afore- time that Divine Event which has come to pass through the travail of their -Soul-the rising of the Sun of Righteousness in the world of Humanity to make all men One-the establishing of the Kingdom of God, on Earth. Bahh'u'llih comes in the Spirit of the Father, therefore aR we hold dear for the individual in the Name of Jesus, He gives in overwhelming measure. but His Teachings, fulfilling Prophecy, contain also further Revelation of God's Will con- cerning Universal affairs, and the Divine Will is clearly expressed in the Principles given to the world by Him. 'They are the Ropes of God given for the world's salvation in this time of difficulty and transition, and to which all who desire the ,protection of God should cling. For they are essential to establish on Earth, the Most Great Peace. Being PrincipleShof Righteousness, they are easy to understand, and should readily find a home in every heart. 56 UNIVERSAL PRINCIPLES OF BAHA'U'LLAH. HICH are Rays from the Sun of Right- eousness now penetrating the mind of Mankind, for they represent important Measures of Justice, now over-due, and are essen- tial to the establishing on Earth, -of THE MOSTGREAT PEACE. 1. THE ONENESS OF MANKIND. 2. INDEPENDENT INVESTIGATION OF TRUTH. 3. THE ONENESS OF THE FOUNDATION OF ALL RELIGIONS. 4. RELIGION MUST BE THE CAUSE OF UNITY. 5. RELIGION MUST BE IN ACCORDANCE WITH SCIENCE AND REASON. 6. EQUALITY BETWEEN MEN AND WOMEN. 7. PREJUDICES OF ALL KINDS MUST BE FOR GOTTEN. 8. UNIVERSAL PEACE. 9. UNIVERSAL EDUCATION. 10. SOLUTION OF THE ECONOMIC PROBLEM. 11. AN INTERNATIONALAUXILIARY LANGUAGE. 12. AN INTERNATIONAL TRIBUNAL. 57 A list of BahA'i publications will be appended for those interested in, further study of the Bahi'i Faith, and in the Sacred Writings of Bahi'u'l- lih and 'Abdii'l-Balik, seekers after Truth may find that which is more precious than rubies, be- cause it pertains to eternal life. This is to be found through the Holy Books of God's Revelation which have been given in the past, is found in the present Revelation of Bahi- 'u'llAh, and will be found in as many more Revela- tions as may be necessary to bring Mankind into complete rapport with the Laws of God, which pertain to general resurrection from the deadness of trespasses and error. The mines of wealth contained in God's Revela- tions to Mankind are now opened up to us afresh, and more than- they have ever been, through the penetrating Sight of Bahh'u'llhh, who, seeing their Inner Meaning to be One Harmonious Whole, courteously invites us to investigate and consider it for ourselves, that we may participate in His Vision of Eternal Truth which the all-compre- hending Generosity of our God has provided for US. Clearly, He shows, we are the inheritors of the Kingdom of Heaven. In Unity, we are rich indeed, but by separations and divisions we have made ourselves poor. The InnerMeaning of God's Revelation is the Cup of Oneness which BahA'u'llAh offers. And those who accept it with understanding are im- pelled to offer it to others; for the Friends of God 58 and Handmaidens of the Merciful are moved by the power of the Spirit coming through Bahh'u'llih~, (the same Christ Spirit which filled Jesus) to spread the knowledge of the Oneness of God and the Oneness of Mankind. As Jesus, an earnest student of the -Scriptures, recognising Himself in them was undoubtedly the best exponent of them, in His Day, so Bahi'u'IlAh in accepting Him, makes clear that the same Spirit is evident in all the Manifestations of God-that being one and the same Spirit, It proceeds from the only Source of 'Majesty. So He delivers tog us His Message , containing the greatest of all Knowledge, the Knowledge of God. It is obvious therefore, to those who see with the eye of the Spirit, that BahA'u'llAh is the very Sunrise of exposition. He expounds God's Laws for to-day, in clear and pristine purity, in order that His Covenant with God amongst the Nations may be fulfilled-, and that Heavenly Kingdom, which Jesus yearned for, be established on Earth. BahA'u'llAh, manifesting the Spirit of the Father, left, in accordance with Prophecy, His own Be- loved Son, 'Abdu'l-BahA, to be the Centre of His Covenant amongst the Nations, to establish the Kingdom of God on Earth. And by His hard and loving labour of delight, 'Abdu'l-]3ahh has be- queathed to the world wisdom and guidance, neces- sary to protect the Cause of God from error. 59 In the lives, and through the Sacred Tablets and Holy Writings of BahAVIIAh and 'Abdu'l-Bahk the Spirit earnestly'says to all: " Come!" And unless the world heeds this Divine Invitation, it is inevitable that great calamities will overtake it. Jesus was the clear exponent of the Sacred Writings before Him, and it will be seen that Bahh'u'lhih and 'Abdu'l-Bahi are clear exponents of the Divine Scriptures given before their appear- ance. Their own Sacred Writings are therefore as precious as the records concerning- Jesus; for they make His sayings perfectly plain-and fulfil the promise of further Divine Guidance. Jesus gave us a New Commandment. We have not kept it very well. He was the Corner Stone, which the builders of His Day refused. He prayed for the Kingdom of God to come. BahAVIIAh brings Laws and Principles of Gu-id- ance, of universal importance-which are essential to it. He, therefore, coming to proclaim the Glory of God, is the Desire of Nations to-day, and God's own Answer to the prayer of Jesus-" Thy King- dom come, Thy Will be done, on Earth, as it is in Heaven." Statesmen of many lands are assembling, and not knowing that He Who is the " Desire of Nations " has come to declare Universal Princi- ples which are the Will of God, they are acting on behalf of the Nations in a way which has not yet brought Peace. 60 They have made sincere attempts, but-without the Guidance which comes from God, Man can ' not bring Peace to the world. Ile has been trying ever since the world began, and has miserably failed. It will be seen by all who consider them thatll~ the Principles of BahA'u'llhh contain the very essence of Peace,: individual and universal. They are absolutely without prejudice. No selfish in- terest can be conserved when they are established. And with these Pillars of uprightness and guiding lines of construction-with Christ Jesus the magni, ficent Corner Stone, the rich giftof our Generous God-we can with perfect confidence proceed to establish the Kingdom of God on Earth. Bahh'u'llAh has Covenanted with God, for this. Gathering up the desires and aspirations of the -Heavenly Messengers Who have appeared before Him, He has made His Covenant with sacrifice, in order to establish the Most Great Peace. Therefore, in this Day, a New Dispensation of the Spirit of God has come to us through BahAVIIAh, and leaves from the Tree of Life are given for the Healing of suffering Nations. A brief historic note will be given on another page, indicative of the outline of this most thrilling Event of all Time-the Coming of the Kingdom of God on Earth. It will be seen that the BAb, blessed be His Name, the Door! through which Light came, bears the same relation to Bahh'u'llAh 61 a as John the Baptist bore to the Coming of Jesus. John, suffered martyrdom for that reason, and like- wise martyrdom happened to the BAb. But every calamity which has occurred in the history of the BahA'i Cause, has proved to be a great blessing fraught with benign consequence. What, for instance, could have seemed a greater misfortune to the English people, the French, the German, the Italian, or those of any country, than to have a Divine Revelation coming to the world in a t0*11gue unknown to them 1 How much trouble has arisen to Christians, because they have been unable to read exactly what Jesus said in the langu- age in which He spoke, or in which His sayings were first recorded! It is not impossible that some meanings have crept in which were not exactly His. So great is the power of His Spirit however, that it would have been-impos-sible for any recorder to conceal It. It is recognisable by the simple min:ded, and is something we can each know and be sure of, in spite of difficulties. Yet, neverthe- less, it would have been joyous to have been able to read His meanings in the tongue in which He spoke to His disciples, or even forh all the Nations to be able to read them in one and the same language. And indeed, we have the means for this at hand. I-low true it is, that " there is nothing which we may think or speak, which the Spirit has not power to accomplish!" 62 1, A UNIVERSAL AUXILIARY LANGUAGE T is written of men and nations that a little child shall lead them.-Yes; - and whether they manifest the spirit of the wolf, or the bear, or the leopard, or the cow, or the young lion or the lamb; they shall lie down together. They shall n ' ot hurt or destroy in all my Holy Mountain: Forthe Earth shall be filled with the knowledge of the Lord, as the waters cover the sea." And we know it is the word which the Lord hath spoken, for it is coming to pass. Even at the time when men repudiate simplicity for leader- ship it is significant that this is so, for "although the leaders of the people cause them to err, 91- " the zeal of the Lord of Hosts doth accomplish it..99 When BahA'u'llAh in the zenith of His Man- hood, was confined with His companions in prison, by despotic governments, and religious fanaticism,, with the heavy chains of persecution around their necks-for teaching in God's Name that the " bonds of afiFection and Unity between the sons of men should be strengthened; that diversity of 7eligions should cease, and difiFerences of race be annulled; and proclaiming that fruitless strife and 63 ruinous wars should pass away-that all men should live as brothers," and that the " most Great Peace shall come," God was preparing a little child (who listened at his mother's knee, in another part of the world)-to do a mighty work in furthering one of the Principles which the Divine Mind through Bahh'u'llkh was promulgating as essential to usher in, and secure, Universal Peace; That child after- wards became Dr. Zamenof, who is now ienowned for presenting to the world the International Auxi- liary language, known as Esperanto. Dr. Zamenof was born in 1859, at -Bielestock, in Poland. The inhabitants there consisted of four different elements: Russians, Poles, Ger- mans, and Jews: all speaking different languages, and living at enmity with each other. The young boy was strongly impressed with the fact that an alien language is a primary cause of international hatred, and at an early age he pondered over the strange difference between the creed his mother taught him, " the brotherhood of man," and the actual opposite of this, which he saw on all sides. Child as he then was, he acutely sorrowed for the world, and gradually became filled with an un- faltering ambition to change,all this. From this determination he never swerved, although of course, he found as he grew up, that the boy's idea of unlimited power was exaggerated. Never- theless, while at school and at college, he still. persevered in his endeavour to unite all men in a common tongue . . . . 64 ot "In 1879, when he was 19 ye 9 ars of age, the language was more or less ready, and Zanienof and his colleagues celebrated its birth in a college festival; but the author was still too young to publish his work, and decided to wait five or six years. While attending the univer- sity he gave all his spare time in those most precious years of youth to the study and perfection of his invention. - After many disappointments, he suc- ceeded in publishing it at his own cost, in 1887. " " Thus we see Esperanto is the outcome of years Of patient perseverance on the part of a man of genius. Now, it can be learned at the cost of a few hours pleasant study ring a period . per week, du i of six months. Of what national language can this be said?" How good- it is to have, in the face of such apparently overwhelming difficulties, this practical assurance that there is, as Shakespeare wrote, " A Divinity which shapes our ends." And without doubt many could point to other events, events which have contributed to " The One far-off Divine Event," of which Tennyson sang, and to which " the whole Creation," has now moved: For, even in the darkness of the night which the world has, known, it has approached us so nearly as to have taken place in our own.Day! Now He, Bahh'u'llhh, the Desire of Nations, has Come, of necessity bringing with Him Divine (Margaret L. Jones. Esperanto Manual.") 65 i Laws and Principles which-will make all men One. Is not this that.to which all Ages have aspired? - Let us read how His -Beloved - Son, 'Abdu'l- BahA, being set free from the bonds of oppression, laboured throughout the world to promulgate those Principles of salvation, and- decide, when we have read, what we are going to do, now He has left us, toward spreading a knowledge of them, and what part we shall take in getting them establishedia and what support and encouragement we shall give to those who are bent on.this great Purpose? We know we can do nothing of ourselves. It is, as Bahh'u'llAh has taught us, " the gexecutive Power of God's Spirit, which enables His servants to perform His orders." 66 'ABDU'L.BAH)k IN PARIS. DDRESSING the Paris Esperanto Group, February 12th, 1913J. at a banquet given in his honour at the Hotel Modern in that city, after a brief introduction by M. Bourlet, the President of the Paris Esperanto Society, 'Abdu'l-BahA said: " One Pf the revealed Principles of the Universal Religion is the establishing of a Universal Language. "In the material world of 'existence, human undertakings are divided into two kinds~universal and specific. The result of every, universal effort is infinite, and the outcome of every specific effort is finite. In this age, those human problems which create a general interest are universal; their results are likewise universal, for humanity has become illiterdependerit. The international laws of to-day are of vast importance since international politics are bringing nations nearer to one another. It is a general axiorn that in the world of human endea- vour, every universal affair commands attention and its results and benefits are limitless. There- fore let wlis say that every universal cause is divine, and every specific matter is human. The universal light for this planet is from the sun; and the special light here to-night, which is electric, illumines 67 this banquet hall through thhe invention of man. In like manner the, activities which endeavour to establish solidarity between nations and to infuse the spirit of universalism in the hearts of the chil- dren of menare like unto divine rays from the Sun of Reality, and the brightest ray is the coming of the Universal Language. Its achievement is the greatest virtue of the age, for such an instrument will remove misunderstandings from amongst the peoples of the earth and unite their hearts. This medium will enable each individual member of the human family to be informed of the scientific accomplishments of all his fellow men. " The basis of knowledge and the excellencies of endeavour in this world are to teach and to be taught. To acquire sciences and to, teach them in turn depends upon language, and when the inter- national auxiliary language becomes universal, it is easily conceivable that the acquirement of know- ledge and instruction will likewise become universal. " No doubt you are aware that in the past ages a common language shared by various nations created a spirit of solidarity amongst them. For instance 1300 years ago, there were many diver- gent nationalities in the Orient. There were Copts in Egypt, Syrians in Syria, Assyrians and Babylonians in Baghdad and Mesopotamia. There existed among these peoples rank hatred but as they were gradually brought nearer through common protection and common interests, .68 the Arabic language grew to be the means of inter-commumeation, and they became as one nation. They all speak the Arabic language to -this day. In Syria if you ask any one of them he Will say., ' I am an Arab,' though in reality he- is not. Some are Greeks, others Jews, etc. We gsay., ' This man is a German, the other an Italian, a Frenchman, an Englishman, etc. All. belong to the great human family, yet language is a barrier between them. The greatest working basis for bringing about Unity and Harmony amongst the nations is the teaching of a universal tongue. Writing on this subject, 50 (now 60) years ago, Ms Holiness Bahh'u'llAh said that complete union between the various sections of the world would be an unrealis-ed dream as long as an international language was not established." 11 Misunderstandings keep people from mutual association and these misunderstandings will not be dispelled except through the medium of a common ground of communication. Every intel- ligent man will bear testimony to this." " The people of the Orient are not fully in- formed of the events in the West, and the West cannot put itself into sympathetic touch with the East. Their thoughts are enclosed in a casket. The Universal language will be the key to open it. Western books will be~ translated into that language and the people of the East will be in- formed of the contents : likewise Eastern lore will become the property of the West. Thus also will 6 9 -1-e - those misunderstandings which exist between the different Religions be, dispersed. Religious preju- dices. play havoc among the peoples and bring about warfare and strife, and it is impossible to remove.them. without a language in common." "I am an Oriental and on this account I am shut out from your thoughts and you likewise from mine. A mutual language will become the mightiest means of universal progress towards the union of East and West. It %viH make the earth one home, and become the divine impulse for human advancement. It will upraise the Standard of Oneness of the world of Humanity and make the earth a universal commonwealth. It will be the cause of love between the children of men and create good fellowship between the various creeds." Praise be to God that Dr. Zamenof has con- structed the Esperanto language. It has all the potential qualities of universal adoption. - All of us must be grateful to him that in his noble efforts in this matter he has served his fellow men well. He has constructed a language which will confer divine benefits on all peoples. With untiring effort and self-sacrifice on the part of its devotees- it gives promise of universal acceptance. " Therefore every one of us should study this language and make every effort to spread it, so, that each day it may receive a wider recognition, be accepted by all nations and Governments of the world, and become a part of the curriculum in all the public schools. I hope that the business of 70 the future conferences and congresses will be car- ried on in Esperanto. In the future two languages will be taught in the schools, one the native tongue, and . the other the International Auxiliary Language. "Consider to-day how difficult is human commu.- nication. One may study fifty languages and yet travel through a country and be at a loss. I myself know several of the Oriental languages but know no Western tongue. Had this Univer- sal language pervaded the globe, I should have studied it, and you -would have been directly in- formed of my thoughts,g and I of yours, and a special friendship would have been established between us. " Please send some Teachers to Persia, if you can, so that they may teach Esperanto to the young people. I have written asking some of them to come here to study it. "I hope that it will be promulgated very rapidly, then the world of humanity will find peace. All the nations will associate with each other like mothers and sisters, fathers and brothers, and each member of the body politic will be fully in- formed ofi the thoughts of all. "I am extremely grateful to you, and thank you for these lofty efforts, for you have gathered at ithis banquet to further this language. Your hope is to render a mighty service to Humanity and for this great aim, I congratulate you from the bottom of my heart." I 71 THE HEALING OF THE NATIONS. WORLD made up of contending factions is a world diseased and suffering; because, it a -house divided against itself cannot stand." Physically, this round globe is " One Rome " for Mankind; a generous gift of the Creator, containing wonder upon wonder, and bounty upon bounty, yet to be discovered. All the Designs of God are generous above the con- ception of men, and His Ideal Man, who reflects His, Glory, the most glorious gift of all. The reader now knows the Principles of BahA' U'Uhh, which come as God's gift To-day for the Healing of ihe Nations, and we are all aware of the unrest in the world, and of the need for re-con- struction, even in our own country. But there are other countries suffering more, and bearing things which have long been too unbearable- through religious, political, racial, social, agricul- tural, industrial, commercial, and other prejudices. Therefore, every Nation would, if aware of it, welcome with a "loud voice," and with "glad hosannas," Him Who comes, in the Name of God, to tell us that in this Day, "Prejudices of all kinds must be forgotten." When we hear that whole nations are from time to time well nigh massacred, or occasionally some 150 villacres demolished," because of prejudices in 72 k Met 00V 11 ";ropoo V V a% 30 AIIPxmd I qe=Prm 30 A11PIA10Z ,H 'Jyla xal Her6lri UNIPI%L - Z1%'U%Z;1W41+ t ILLWq N. ME 8AJ. 028161- t"clulla: RL ba. 1). IWG~. AVRIL ox Jeudi Sainte Agn6s Lever du Soleil - 5. 11 Coucher a 6.42 12 h. d la Turque: 6. 4 9 npD p,.JA 22 TPI) 5671 110 6c""s &ZI[Lue" NIL& -QQ4SV"T6Q0VLx @I"=S65 73 of one kind or another, we clearly see that nothing short of the abolition of prejudices could remedy such unhappy conditions; conditions which -were more familiar to BahAVIIAh., and others who live in the East, than they are to us, to whom they only become known through those who have travelled and sojourned in those regions. Let us take note of some of the differences Which tend to perpetuate them, bearing in mind while we do so that " Order is Heaven's first law." " A striking instance of the confusion arising from conflicting chronologies and modes of reckon- ing time appcars on the previous page. ltgis the replica of a leaf taken in 1911 -from an ordinary tear off " calendar in every-dayguse in business houses at Constantinople." " A glance will suffice to show that it is not the simple affair to which we are accustomed at home; but a closer examination reveals complexities to which the six languages in ~vhich it is printed are but the threshold. " "At the top of the page we are living in the year 1329 ; half-way down in 1911 ; and at the foot in 5671. This bewildering anachronism is followed by another. In the section printed in French it is the 20th of April, and in the Greek section on the left it is the 7th, for the Greeks adhere to the Old Style. The narrow strip across the middle of the leaf is Bulgarian. Turning to the Turkish section at the top, the confusion increases, for on the left hand we find that the month is Nisan., 74 and the large figure below tells us it is the 7th. The right section gives the name of the month as Rebi-ul-Akir, and the date as the 21st. These indicate respectively the official year and the ordinary Moammadan year. We also learn that the month of Nisan has 30 days, and Rebi-ul-Akir 29. The small characters beneath the large 21 tell us that it is the 164th day of Kassim. This is the reckoning of the Turkish peasant, who knows nothing of months. The year for him has two divisions, Kassim, which begins on the 8th of November, and Hidrelis, on the 8th of May. The Hebrew characters at the foot of the page inform us that it is Thursday 22 Nisan 5671. Thus our indicator has four- dates for the year, four names for the month, and six numberings of the day for this particular Thursday. But we have not pene- trated all its mysteries. In the French section we meet with the startling assertion that noon is 11 minutes past 5 to the Turks, and that 12 o'clock Turkish time is 49 minutes past 6 with us. This is accounted for by the fact that the Turkish day begins at sunset, and is divided, like ours, into two periods of 12 hours each. Hence on the 30th of June, noon and midnight are 24 minutes past 4, whilst on the loth of December they are 29 minutes past 7." " All this may look like an ingenious puzzle, but it is a serious necessity to the man of business. In transactions with the Government on this parti- cular Thursday, 20th of Apffl, 1911, he has to be 75 careful that documents were dated 7th of Nisan-9--_ 1327. In those with a Turkish merchant, a bill of --exchange'or cheque had to be dated 21st Rebi- ul-Akir, 1329. In buying produce from a farmer his receipt or -order was 164th Kassim. In deal- ings with-a Greek firm it was important to remem- ber that it was the 7th, gnot the 21st, whilst in making an appointment with a Turk for I o'clock in the afternoon it was necessary to write I I minutes past 6. As the time of sunset varies every day, clocks and watches must be altered constantly. Some people carry two watches, one marking European, the other Turkish time; but many use one watch with two dials. " We have not exhausted the information con- tained in the leaflet. For the Greeks the day is Great Thursday (Megale' Pempte'), for the Armeniansg it is the Annunciation of the Holy Mother of Jesus (Avedis Soorp Asvadzazin), and the Washing of the disciples' feet (Vadnaluvacen). Therefore, the man of business must remember that Greek and Armenian establishments are closed. " " There are newspapers at Constantinople in Turkish, Greek, Armenian, Arabic, and Persian. One constantly hears in the streets Skipetar and Vlach, the former the speech of the Albanians, the latter of the Wailachians. The babel is increased by various European tongues, with an occasional dash of Kurdish or Georgian. Among the news- papers is one in Hebrew characters, not in Hebrew, 76 i - bu '-t' udveo-Spanish. This is, perhaps, the acme of Ingu al confusion." if we who know and speak only one tongue do not always understand each other, we may well believe that the suspicions Pnd hatreds and mur- derous outbreaks we read of from time to time must, in a- great measure, be due to misunderstand- ings consequent on such confusion; and not alto- gether because the hearts of those who live in those regions are less human than our own, as we have been prone to believe. What, then, is the Divine Remedy? We have seen, from a perusal of the Principles of Bahi'u'- IlAh, that a Universal Auxiliary Language is part .of it. And a mere glance; at the leaf of this calendar would make it impossible for anyone to i nore such merciful remedy. How could- a 9 Universal Teacher be under-stood without it? Only with great difficulty. Some would die before they knew Him, for it takes devoted men of learning and enthusiasm to translate a Message into every tongue. The Message of Bahh'u'llAh inspires many to undertake this difficult service. Other- wise we should not be able to read of it in English. The conditions of the world and the Time in which we live undoubtedly require a Universal Auxiliary Language. And, equally, the appli- cation of a77 the Principles of BahA'u'llhh is essen- tial for the Healing of the Nations. As already remarked, there could be no (See " Turkey and the Turks," by Z. Duckett Ferriman. 1911 Mills & Boon). 77 F greater trial to those who are earnestly waiting for a Divine Message whatever language they speak,. or to whatever country they belong, than for it to be given in a tongue unknown to them. Yet so it is; for the Heavenly Fragrances from the Ridva'n (Garden of Paradise) find Utterance in this Day, in the rich and melodious languages of Persia and Arabia. This seems strange at first, yet the Wisdom -of it clearly coincides with the Divine Purpose. It will test the- sincerity of seekers after Truth, serve to abolish prejudice, and incline all to a Universal tongue more quickly and more easily learned, and remain a Sacred Treasury for all time, which em- brawees and is complementary to earlier Sacred Utterances. *The BahA'i Teachings advocate the adoption of a -universal calendar- in which the--year is divided into 19 months of 19 days each, with 4 or 5 " inter- calary " days between the 18th and 19th months, the New Year commencing at the Vernal Equinox, and the years being numbered from the, date of the Proclamation of the BAb in A.D. 1844. 'Abdu'l-BahA interpreted the 1,335 days spoken of at the end of the Book of Daniel as meaning 1,335 solar years after the Hegira, i.e., A.D. 1957. And said: " By that time the BahA'i Teachings will be Universally spread; a Universal Language .-dopted And the MOST GREAT PEACE inaugurated." Given through Dr. Rsslernont on his visit to Acca, Jan.-Feb., 1920. 78 _t 'ABDU'L.BAHA IN LONDON AT THE CITY TEMPLE. After enduring, in company with His Father Baha"u'llhh, persecution, confinement, and Exile, under the Persian and Turkish Governments for a period of forty years, when the Turkish Constitu- tion was formed-'Abdu'l-Bahh,, being regarded as a political prisoner-was set free. In 1911 He visited England, coming first to London, where He addressed large audiences of different denominations through His interpreters. He afterwards visited Paris, Stuttgart, Switzer- land, and Buda-Pest. " On September I ith, the first Sunday after His arrival in - England, He spoke from the City Temple pulpit to the evening congregation -at the special desire of the Pastor, the Rev. R. J. Campbell. Though 'Abdu'l-BahA's coming had not been advertised, the Church was filled ~to its utmost capacity. Few who were there will ever forget the sight of that venerable figure clad in His Eastern garb, ascending the pulpit stairs to address a public gathering for the first time in His life. T'hat this should be a Christian place of worship in the West has its deep significance. I " Mr. Campbell introduced the visitor with a few simple words, in the course of which he said: " We as followers of the Lord Jesus Christ, 79 Who is to us, and will always be, the Light of the World, view with sympathy and respect every movement of the Spirit of God in the experience of mankind,- and therefore we give greeting to 'Abdu'l-BahA in the name of all who share the Spirit of our Master and are trying to live their lives in that Spirit. " The Bahi'i Movement is very closely akin to, I think I might say identical with, the spirituat purpose of Christianity." " 'Abdu'I'BahA said: " 0 Noble Friends, seekers after God! Praise be to God! To-day the Light of Truth is shining upon the world in its abundance. The breezes of the Heavenly Garden are blowing throughout all regions. The Call of the Kingdom is heard in all lands, and the breath of the Holy Spirit is felt in all hearts that are faithful. The Spirit of God is giving Eternal Life. In this wonderful Age, the East is enlightened, the West is fragrant, and everywhere the soul inhales the holy perfume. " The Sea of the Unity of Mankind is lifting up its waves with joy, for there is real communication between the hearts and ininds of men. The Banner of the Holy Spirit is uplifted, and men see it, and are assured with the knowledge that this is a New Day. . . . " In the days of old an instinct for warfare was developed in the struggle with wild animals. This is no longer necessary. Nay, rather co-operation and mutual understanding are seen to produce the so a greatest welfare of Mankind. Enmity is nogw the result of prejudice only. " In the 'Hidden Words,' BahA'u'llhh --says: Justice is- to be loved above all.' Praise be to God, in this country the Standard of Justice 'has been raised. A great effort is being made to give all souls a true place. This is the desire of all noble natures. This is to-day the Teaching for the East and for the West. Therefore the East and the West will understand and reverence each other, and embrace like long parted friends who have found each other. There is One God. Mankind is One. Let us worship Him, and give praise for all His great Prophets and Messengers, who -have manifested His brightness and glory." " INSCRIPTION IN THE OLD BIBLE." WRITTEN BY 'ABDU'L-BAHA IN PERSIAN. This is the Holy -Book of God, of Celestial in- spiration. It is the Bible of Salvation, the noble Gospel. It is the mystery of the Kingdom and its Light. It is the Divine Bounty. The sign of the Guidance of God." 'ABDU'L-B.A,HA ABBAS. C' 'Abdu'l-Baha in London," pp. 3-5.) 81 lp 'ABDU'L.BAHA AT ST. JOHN'S, WESTMINSTER. " On September the 17th,, 'Abdu'l-Bahk at the request of the Venerable Archdeacon of West- minster addressed the congregation of . St. John the Divine after the evening Service. it With a few warm words characteristic of his whole attitude Archdeacon Wilberforce intro- duced the revered Messenger from the East, who had crossed seas and,countries on His Mission of Peaceg and Unity for which He had suffered forty years of captivity and persecution. " The Archdeacon had the Bishop's chair placed for his Guest on the Chancel steps, and standing beside Him read the translation of 'Abdu'l-BahA's address himself. " 'AbduTBahA said: " 0 Noble Friends! -0 Seekers after the King- dom of God! Man all over the world is seeking for God. All that exists is God: bui the Reality of Divinity is Holy above all understanding. " The pictures of divinity which come to our mind are the product of our fancy; they exist in the realm of our imagination. 71ey are not ade- quate to the Truth. Truth in its essence cannot be put into words. " Divinity cannot be comprehended because it is comprehending. " Man, who has also a real existence, is compre- hended by God: therefore the Divinity which man 82 can understand is partial. It is -not complete. Divinity is actual Truth and Real existence, and not any representation of it. Divinity it-sOf con- tains all, and is not contained. Although the mineral, vegetable- animal and man all have actual being, yet the mineral has no knowledge of the vegetable. It cannot apprehend it. It cannot imagine or understand it. " It is the same with the vegetable. Any pro- gress it may make, however highly it may become developed,5 it will never apprehend the animal nor understand it. " It is the same with the animal. However much it may progress in its own kingdom, how- ever refined its feelings may become, it will have no real notion of the world of man or of his special intellectual faculties. " The animal cannot understand the roundness of the earth, nor its motion in space, nor the cen- tral position of the sun, nor the power of electri- city; nor can it imagine such a thing as the all- pervading ether." " Although the mineral, vegetable, animal, and man himself are actual beings, the difference be- tween -their Kingdoms prevents members of the lower degree from comprehending the essence and nature of those of superior degree. This being so, how can the temporal and phenomenal compre- hend the Lord of Hosts ? " It is clear that this is impossible! " But the essence of Divinity, the Sun of Truth-, 83 shines forth upon all horizons and is spreading its rays upon all things. Each creature is the re- cipient of some pokionof that power, and man, who contains the perfection of the n-tineral, the vegetable, and the animal, as well as his own dis- tinctive qualities, has become the noblest of created beings. It stands written that he is made in the image of God. Mysteries that were hidden he discovers. And secrets that-were concealed he brings into the light. By Science and by Art he brings hidden powers into the region of tiie visible world. Man perceives the hidden law in created things and co-operates 'With it. 1 4; 4; Lastly, the perfect man, the Prophet, is one who is transflgured, one who has the purity and clearness -of a perfect mirror-one who reflects the Sun of Truth. Of such a one-of such a Prophet and Messenger-we can say that the Light of Divinity with the heavenly perfections dwells in him. " If we claim that the Sun is seen in the mirror, we do not mean that the Sun itself has descended from the holy heights of his heaven and entered into the mirror! This is impossible. " The Divine, Nature is seen in the -Manifesta- tions and its Light and Splendour are visible in extreme glory. " Therefore men have always been taught by the Prophets of God. The Prophets of God are the Mediators of God. All the Holy Prophets and Messengers have come from one Holy Spirit 84 and bear the Message of God, fitted to the Age in which they appear. The One Light is in them all, and they are One with each other. I But the Eternal does not become phenomenal: neither can the phenomenal become Eternal. " Saint Paul, the great Apostle, said: 'We all with open face, beholding as in a mirror the glory of God, are changed into the same image from glory to glory, as by the spirit of the Lord.' " PRAYER. 0 God the Forgiver! 0 Heavenly Educa- tor! This assembly is adomed with the mention of Thy Holy Name. Thy children turn their face towards Thy Heavenly Kingdom, hearts are made happy, and -souls are comforted. Merciful God! Cause us to repent of our shortcomings! Accept us in Thy Heavenly King- dom and give unto us an abode where there shall be no error. Give us Peace. Give us Know- ledge. And open unto us the gates of Thy Heaven. " Thou art the Giver of all! Thou art the Forgiver! Thou art the Merciful. Amen." "'The congregation was profoundly moved, and fbllowing the Archdeacon's example knelt to re- ceive the Blessing of the Servant of God-Who stood with extended arms-His wonderful voice rising and falling in the silence with the power of His invocation. 85 As the Archdeacon said: 'Truly the Bast and the West have met in this sacred place to- night., The li~mn '0 God our help in-Ages past I was sung by the g entire, congregation stand- ing, as 'Abdu'l-Bahh and the Archdeacon pa I ssed down the aisle to the vestry hand in hand. - - " Outside the Church, Salvationists were hold- ing their Meeting and 'Abdu'l-Bahk was deeply impressed and touched at the sight of the menia women and children, gathered together in the night, at the street comer praying and singing." ('Abdu'1-Bahd in London.) 86 ERPOOL. _6ABDUT-BAHA IN LIV the United States In 1912 'Abdull-Bahi toured of America, addressing assemblies Of every Reli- gious denomination, Ethical Societies, Socialists, and Agnostics. And after that most successful tour, meeting with welcome everywhere, on amv- ing in Liverpool, found also, in that city, assem- blies awaiting Him, eager to give ear to the mes- sage of Peace He had to deliver to the world. Engagements in London, Edinburgh, Bristol, and elsewhere, made it impossible for Him to stay long in Liverpool. He addressed the Theosophists there, and also the Baptists at Pembroke Chapel. On Sunday evening,, December i5th, 1912, after being introduced by the Minister, Rev. Donald B. Fraser, he made courteous reply, saying how delighted he was to meet such a large congregation,, in a Church so re- Downed for its high social endeavour, and faith in God. Many had arrived from surrounding dis- tricts and Manchester, long before the gates were .opened. On that happy occasion, speaking in Persian, Ahmad Sohrab interpreting, 'Abdu'l-Bahh said - " The greatest prize this world holds is the con- sumination of the Oneness of Humanity. All are the children of God. God is the Creator, the Pro- i vider, the Protector of all. He educates all of us, and is compassionate towards men. His grace en- compasses all Mankinid. The Sun of God, shines upon all Mankind. The rain of God falis for all. The gentle breeze of God wafts for all. Hum anity at large is- sitting around the Divine Table of the Almighty. Why should we engage in strife? Why should we ever engage on the battlefield to kill each other? God is kind is He not? Why should we be unkind? What is the reason? How ,are we benefited by being unkind? To-day, the chief means of dissension amongst the Nations is Religion; while in Reality, the Religion of God, is One. Differences lie in 'blind imitations which have crept into Religion after its foundation. Reli- gion is Reality, and Reality is One. It does not permit of multiplicity. His Holiness Abraham was the Herald of Reality. His Holiness Moses was the Spreader of Reality. His Holiness Jesus was the Founder of Reality. His Holiness Muhammad was the Spreader and Promulgator of Reality. The Reality of Religion, is One. Funda- mentally there is no difference. The Reality of Religion consists in the Love of God, in the Faith of God, in the virtue of Humanity, and in the means of communication between the hearts of men. The Reality of Religion is the Oneness of the Whole of Humanity. " What is the Wisdom of Religion may we ask? There is no doubt whatever that the Wisdom of Religion is love and amity amongst the people; _4 that it establishes fellowship between the various organizations of man. The Religion of God is for Peace not for War. Why should we ever make it a cause of separation and alienation?'It is a remedy to bestow health and recovery. Why should we nd sickness ever make it a cause of disease a We are all the children of God, all are His--ser- vants. The glances of His Mercy, encircle us all. He has bestowed Religion that it may be the means of bringing together the various members of His Family. Yet in the Orient such a means of illumination has become the cause of rancour between the people of various Religions. They -shed the blood of one- another. They pillaged each other's property, they sacrificed each other's chil- dren. There was great commotion and constant warfare going on. Darkness had encircled the Radiance of Religion. The Horizon of- Reality was bidden by clouds of imitations and dogmas, and no rays of the Sun could penetrate these clouds." " At such a time His Holiness BahA'u'llhh appeared in Persia. He summoned the people of various Religions to love and friendship. At this time in Persia, the Jews, the Christians, the Mus- lims, the Zoroastrians, the Buddhists, all of con- tending Religions, were ever fighting each othei. Having heard the words of Bahh'u'llhh, many are now living in the utmost unitv. What harm can accrue if such amity becomes permanent through- out the eivilised and uncivilised world? " Bahh'u'llAh declared International Peace. In 89 Persia, many years ago, He declared Internationa. Peace, amongst Religions and Nations, and be- tween the Races of every clime. With -the greatest power and penetration did He arise to spread prin- ciples of Peace. For this, He was thrown into prison, and suffered great hardships. His proper- ties were pillaged. His friends were martyred. More than, 20,000 souls sacrificed their lives, so that the Oneness -of the World of Humanity might be realized. All His life Bahh'u'llih endured great calami- ties and hardships. Often He was in chains. Sometimes He was living in Exile. Often He was incarcerated in barracks. Notwithstanding these stumbling blocks, ever He strove, ever He worked, so that He became able to establish amity among the people of contending Religions. Religion must become the cause of Love. If it becomes the cause of enmity, what use is there for it? Religion must become the cause of prosperity. Alas 1 A thousand times -alas! that it should have become the cause of rancour! Consider, ignorance has reached such a degree of folly, that it is the duty of Humanity to investigate Reality. No one must be satisfied -with mere traditions. Traditions differ, and cause misunderstandings to~ remain. These misunderstandings have created direful eonditions. " 90 I 'ABDU'L.BAHA TO THE JEWS. ONTINUING, at Pembroke Chapel, 'Abdu'l-Bahh said: I I While in America I spoke in a Taber- nacle of the Jews, 1. sai d in that Synagogue, that the misunderstandings which exist between the. Jews and Christians have been the cause of their separation and their hatred of each other. If the Israelite investigates Reality there is no doubt that he will come to the conclusion that he must associ- ate with, and love his brother Christian. Hatred must not linger any longer because the Jews to-day imagine, and in former times imagined, that Christ was the opposer, or enemy of Moses, that His Holi- ness Christ was against Moses. To the Jews, I further said: You think Chhrist destroyed the foundation of Moses; but let us be fair, let us be just, and investigate Reality. The Cause of Moses, the Religion of Moses, for 1,500 years was circum- scribed within the boundary of Jerusalem. The Bible was only found in that small locality. Other parts of the world never heard the name of Moses. Even the people of Persia never heard the name of Moses. They had never seen the Book of Moses until His Holiness Christ appeared. He raised the Name of Moses. His Holiness Christ Pro- mulgated the Old Testament throughout the Orient and the Occident. During the Mosaic Dis- 91 -A pensation, the Bible was only translated in to one language. h'. But through'the blessing of Christian- ity,- the Bible was trhnslated into many languages -and 'spread throughout the world. Consider what love - Christ had for Moses. His Holiness Christ promulg a-ted the fundamental Principles of Moses. The h, Ten Commandments He spread throughout the -world. He made famous all the Israelitish- Prophets. Were it not for the appearance of Christ, -how -could the people of America ever have heard the name of Moses? How could the Bible have become a household Book? All these ser- vices were rendered by Jesus Christ. Now let us fin&out, after these statements, whether Christ wa's the enemy of intoses,g or His best Friend? Be just. His Holiness Christ was the spreader of the Mosaic Movement. He spread the Old Testa- ment. Notwithstanding this, you are thinking He was the enemy of Moses. Why not abandon these prejudices? The Christians believe that Moses was the Prophet of God, that the Bible is the Book of God, and that all the israelitish Prophets were the mouthpieces of God. What harm would there be, if you came out and said : ' Christ is the -Word of God,' so that this dissension may cease? And so that fellowship may be established eternally be- tween the Jews and the Christians? If you just say these words: ' Christ is the Word,' it will show that you have investigated Reality, and dissension will be left behind. " When we are not investigating Reality there 92 is dissension between Religions. For instance, in the Book of the Quran, His Holiness Mubammad mentions the Name of His Holiness the Christ. It is from the itext of the Quran, that Christ is called the Word of God, the Spirit of God. It is theg record of the Quran that Mary the mother of Christ was living in the Holy of Holies, that she had the fellowship of the Almighty, and that food descended from Heaven for her. It is written in the Quran that the Holy Spirit, addressing Mary, said: ' Oh, Mary! be faithful to God, for He hath created thee pure and sanctified, and hath made thee superior over all the women of the world. And again, it is written in the Quran that ' Christ ascended into Heaven, and that He will again return from Heaven.' Again, that ' Christ is Pure, and Unique.' So most of the praises and Commands of Christ are recorded in the Book which is considered Sacred by 300 millions of Muslims. Just think of the present misunder- standing between these two Religions! The pre- sence of misunderstanding has caused the warfare of the last 1,300 years between Christians and Mus- lims. Think of one Crusade which lasted 200 years! Yet Religious warfare continues!, There are more than 260 million Muhammadans through- out the world. You cannot destroy this colossal number. Therefore if there is love and fellowship among the Jews, the Christians, and the Muham- madans, the Orient and the Occident will find the greatest composure and Peace." 93 G \a Referring to the Balkan War, 'Abdu'l-Bahi said: " God is- not pleased with.the horrible events which have been transpiring in the Balkans. - They are hated by Him. Every lover of Humanity is dis pleased with them. g There, people are killing. each other like so many wolves. They tear each other to pieces. They shed each other's blood. They kill each other's innocent children. Just consider, the ferocious beasts do not treat their kith- and kin like this. The wolf may tear to pieces one animal, for food, which it does. But wolves never tear each other in thousands! Are men more ferocious than wolves? Are they not more umjust than birds of prey? What are the causes of all this strife? The Foundation of the World of God, is Love. But Nations say, 'we want to increase our dominions.' " I will make one more statement, and close, and I want your careful attention. What is this land, this earth? Is it not this : That for a short time we live on this earth; then it becomes our grave, our cemetery? Now is it beneficial to en- gage in War, and in strife? Many generations have come, have lived for a short time on this Earth, and have gone under it. It is the Universal Graveyard of Humanity. Is it praiseworthy that we engage in warfare, shedding blood, destroying houses, pillaging the wealth of Nations and killing little children beneath the boofs of horses? Is it 94 worthy that we sacrifice eternal hfe, and the ever- lasting soul of man, for the sake of a. little dust? Justice. and Equity do n got permit it. g I hope that you will strive with all Your might to ~ raise - the Standard of the OnenE-~s of Humanity, and unfurl the flag of International Peace, over all regions of the earth. Alas! since those words were spoken, we have been engaged in the fiercest Warfare the world has ever known-. Is Mankind to be subject to such, folly for ever? Divine Wisdom has decreed Ahrough BahA'u'llhh, that Religion must be -in accord with Science and Reason. Therefore, since individuals,, by Divine Wisdom, as we have seen, can do great things, without Divine Guidanewe they can go astray into actions of diabolical fool- ishness and insanity.- It is necessary that merciful guidance should protect humanity against insane onslaughts. ' BahA'u'llAh brings to the World that Merciful Guidance.. 95 I RELIGION IN ACCORD WITH SCIENCE AND REASON. 0 %mPHERE is no opposition between Religion and Science. They are the two wings upon which man's Intelligence can soar into the heights; with which 'the Human Soul can progress. It is impossible to fly with one wing alone." If Religion were contraryg to logical h Reason then it would cease to be a Religion and be merely a tradition. " . " There is no- contradiction between True Reli- gion and Science. When Religion is opposed to Science it becomes mere Superstition; that which is contrargy to Knowledgeg is Ignorance." - " How can a man believe to be a fact, that which Science has proved to be impossible? If he be- lieves in spite of his reason, it is rather superstition than faith. The True Principles of all Religions are in conformity with the teachings of Science." " The Unity of God is logical, and this is not antagonistic to the conclusions arrived at by scien- tific study." 96 Religion has two main parts. The Spiritiz-a-1 and the Practical. The Spiritual - part never changes. All the Manifestations of God and His Prophets have taught the sdme Truth-andgiven the same Spiritual Law. There is no division in the Truth. The Sun of Truth-has sent forth many rays to illumine Human Intelligence., The Light is always the same." We are familiar with the phrases - Light anl Darkness', 'Religion and Science.' But the Reli- gion which does not walk hand in hand with Science is itself in the Darkness of Superstition and ignor- ance. " ('Abdu'l-BahA in " Paris Talks.") One of ihe charms of Creation is individuality. Without it there could be no freedom, no unity, and no life. Whatever theories, from time to- time have been prevalent, concerning the origin.- nature, shape, size, duration, or position of thii planet, both -Religion- and Science have been responsible for error concerning it: error due to partial knowledge, sometimes, and sometimes to an unkindly and dominating disposition. It is, however, obvious to all of us, that the World of Humanity is- made up of individuals. Therefore individuals must have been in the Mind of the Creator before they became visible to each other. The fact that we are visible to each other, should incline us to revere the Intelligence of our Creator; the All-Wise, Bountiful, and Supreme Intelligence. 97 it 'we do I not think A beautiful picture an acci- dent, or -a consequence of blind nature, why slid uld anyone presume to slippose, we ourselves, are created without any special purpose or design? Ile highest - ambition of artists, is to portray truthfully what is visible'already-with such power, that not only the outer view is portrayed-but the inner meaning revealed. To whom the Glory? From whence do they derive their capacity? - They inherit it htruly, but do they, inherit it from flesh, or from Spirit? Suppose we say both. It is even then Spirit which gives the capacity to perse- vere. The capacity for what the world calls genius is inherited from the One Supreme Spiritual Power we name God because the Manifestations of that Power are Good. We are assured by the Founder of Christianity, Who is supported in that assurance by all the Prophets and Messengers of God who heralded Him, that the care of Our Heavenly Father is such, that not one sparrow falls to the ground without 11is knowledge, and that His care for us is such, that even the hairs of our head are numbered." If He, Whom we all love and honour, could give such assurance, we may reasonably question by what authority, and at what point in the 'History of Religion, did Christianity get so into the hands of a dominating power, that in the past, indi- viduals have been put to death and cruelly tor- tured fWr exercising their reasoning faculties? Or, because their exploring nature prompted them to ~9s face the greatest dangers, and endure unspeakable sufferings (even rejoicing in them when they have been testimony to the Truth)-in order to dis- cover more about this fascinating planet'- which a bountiful Creator -has designed to. -be g a Paradise for Mankind! Even atheists want Paradise. Science and Reason bespeak -it. Humanitarianism demands it. And we may be sure the Creator likes to hear that demand. It is in harmony with the assurance, and the Loving Kindness of Jesus. And, before any branch of human knbh%vledge bad become sufficiently mature to echo the Truth of such possibility-the opening Chapters of Genesis stated it. Truth is echoed to-day, from all branches and fields of knowledge to be One, to be reasonable, to be scientific, and satisfaetory. Abraham called Mankind to recog- nise, and worship the One True God. The first point of view is the last. For the last was first. It is the Eternal; the Divine; the Revealed Truth, MX Y Eternity is My Creation. I have created It for thee. illy Oneness is illy Design, I have Designed It for thee" says our Creator, through His Messenger, BahA'u'llAh. (" Hidden Words.") h One does not point to past errors and limitations for the purpose of condemnation. We have all erred; yet the Spirit of God beckons, and gives us wings, beyond our human limitations. 46 1 came not into the world to condemn the world, 99 but that ye might have life, and have it more a.bundantly; and to the end that he that believeth on Me, (the Christ Spirit in Jesus) might have life everlasting." The Primal Word of the Almighty is some- times called the water of Life, for it quickens the dea h d souls in the desert of -ignorance with the spring of intelligence." . . . " The seen and the unseen fail to attam the measure of His Under- standing. The world of being and whatever has issued from it bears witness to this utterance. 9' To-day, the best fruit of Science and Know- ledge is that which benefits mankind and improveg his condition." " The pulse of the universe is in the hands of the skilful Physician. He diagnoses the illness and wisely prescribes the remedy. Every day has its own secret and every tongue a melody. The ill- ness of to-day has one cure and that of to-morrow another. Look ye, upon This Day. Consider, and discuss its needs. One sees that existence is afflicted with innumerable diseases compelling it to lie upon the bed of suffering. Men who are in- toxicated -with the wine of self-contemplation pre vent the wise Physician from reaching it. Thus have they made the world and themselves to suffer. They know not the ailment nor recognise the cure. They take the wrong for the right, the crooked for the straight, the enemy for the Friend." 100 I ",The Heavenly Wise One proclaimeth: "A harsh word is like a sword, but gentle speech is like unto 'Milk. - The children'of the world attain- to betterment through this." The Tongue of Wisdom says: Whosoever possesses Me not, has nothing.h Pass by whatever exists in this world and find Me. I -am the Sun of Perception and the Ocean of Science. I revive the withered ones and quicken the dead. I am that Light which illumines the Path of In-sight. I am the Falcon of the Al- mighty. I bear healing in My wings and teach the Knowledge of soaring to the Heaven of Truth. How often has proven the weakness of human strength -and the -feebleness and impotence ,Df the material' and phenomenal against the Heavenly power of His Prophets, a manifest sign of His Chosen Ones, a clear standing light of His Road and Pathway and an accurate standard for recognising the proof and argument of His Truth. The people of the world long resisted it; but were finally dismayed; nations both of the East and West wrestled with it, but were overthrown. This power was opposed, at the appearance of Moses, by the Pharaohs; at the manifestation of Christ, by the Jews and emperors; at the rise of Muhammad by the Persian kings and Arabs. It has also been opposed by false prophets, who have * See "Tablet of BahA'VUah.- p. 161 101 attempted to found a religion without the permis- sion of God; falsely and presumptuously, laying claim to prophethood, as is'testified and recorded in history. The histories of Mazdak, in the days of King Ko'bad; of the Jew, 'Sad Dawlah; of Ar- goon-Khan, the Mongol, in Persia; 'Ala'adin El Khaledge, in India; and the French Philosophers during the revolution of 1792, are all warnings and admonitions to the prudent. These'philosophers, -wise men, kings and g statesmen attempted, through their great ingenuity and the abundance of their science and learning, to institute a religion -of simpler laws, regulations, doctrines and princi- ples - within the range of average capacities and minds, suitable to all tastes and conformable to the time and circumstances. Conditions proved favourable to their desires, and the g civil and mili- tarv leaders submitted to their opinions and plans. " But God frustrated their ideas, disappointed their