We explain… the meaning of Christ’s resurrection in the
following way: After the martyrdom of Christ, the Apostles were perplexed and
dismayed. The reality of Christ, which consists in His teachings, His bounties,
His perfections, and His spiritual power, was hidden and concealed for two or
three days after His martyrdom, and had no outward appearance or
manifestation—indeed, it was as though it were entirely lost. For those who
truly believed were few in number, and even those few were perplexed and
dismayed. The Cause of Christ was thus as a lifeless body. After three days the
Apostles became firm and steadfast, arose to aid the Cause of Christ, resolved
to promote the divine teachings and practise their Lord’s admonitions, and
endeavoured to serve Him. Then did the reality of Christ become resplendent,
His grace shine forth, His religion find new life, and His teachings and
admonitions become manifest and visible. In other words, the Cause of Christ, which
was like unto a lifeless body, was quickened to life and surrounded by the
grace of the Holy Spirit.
Such is the meaning of the resurrection of Christ, and this
was a true resurrection. But as the clergy did not grasp the meaning of the
Gospels and did not comprehend this mystery, it has been claimed that religion
is opposed to science, for among other things the ascension of Christ in a
physical body to the material heavens is contrary to the mathematical sciences.
But when the truth of this matter is clarified and this symbol is explained, it
is in no way contradicted by science but rather affirmed by both science and
reason.
- ‘Abdu’l-Baha (Table talks in Akka, authenticated by ‘Abdu’l-Baha;
‘Some Answered Questions’ – 2014 revised translation by the Baha’i World
Centre)
