Likewise, the divine religions of the holy Manifestations of
God are in reality one, though in name and nomenclature they differ. Man must
be a lover of the light, no matter from what dayspring it may appear. He must
be a lover of the rose, no matter in what soil it may be growing. He must be a
seeker of the truth, no matter from what source it comes. Attachment to the
lantern is not loving the light. Attachment to the earth is not befitting, but
enjoyment of the rose which develops from the soil is worthy. Devotion to the
tree is profitless, but partaking of the fruit is beneficial. Luscious fruits,
no matter upon what tree they grow or where they may be found, must be enjoyed.
The word of truth, no matter which tongue utters it, must be sanctioned. Absolute
verities, no matter in what book they be recorded, must
be accepted. If we harbor prejudice, it will be the cause of deprivation and
ignorance. (‘Abdu’l-Baha, excerpt from a talk, 28 May 1912, New York; ‘The Promulgation of Universal
Peace’)
