| Kitáb-i-Íqán | 31 |
above the divine decree, have renounced
resignation unto the will of God, busied themselves
with selfish calculation, and walked in the way of
the hypocrite. With all their power and strength
they strive to secure themselves in their petty pursuits,
fearful lest the least discredit undermine
their authority or blemish the display of their
magnificence. Were the eye to be anointed and illumined
with the collyrium of the knowledge of
God, it would surely discover that a number of
voracious beasts have gathered and preyed upon
the carrion of the souls of men.
What "oppression" is greater than that which
hath been recounted? What "oppression" is more
grievous than that a soul seeking the truth, and
wishing to attain unto the knowledge of God,
should know not where to go for it and from whom
to seek it? For opinions have sorely differed, and
the ways unto the attainment of God have multiplied.
This "oppression" is the essential feature of
every Revelation. Unless it cometh to pass, the Sun
of Truth will not be made manifest. For the break
of the morn of divine guidance must needs follow
the darkness of the night of error. For this reason,
in all chronicles and traditions reference hath been
