It is certain that man’s highest distinction is to be lowly
before and obedient to his God; that his greatest glory, his most exalted rank
and honor, depend on his close observance of the Divine commands and
prohibitions. Religion is the light of the world, and the progress,
achievement, and happiness of man result from obedience to the laws set down in
the holy Books. Briefly, it is demonstrable that in this life, both outwardly
and inwardly the mightiest of structures, the most solidly established, the most
enduring, standing guard over the world, assuring both
the spiritual and the material perfections of mankind, and protecting the
happiness and the civilization of society—is religion.
(‘Abdu’l-Baha, ‘The Secret
of Divine Civilization’)
