In the Orient there were great differences among races and
peoples. They hated each other, and there was no association among them.
Various and divergent sects were hostile, irreconcilable. The different races
were in constant war and conflict. About sixty years ago Bahá’u’lláh appeared
upon the eastern horizon. He caused love and unity to become manifest among
these antagonistic peoples. He united them with the bond of love; their former
hatred and animosity passed away; love and unity reigned instead. It was a dark
world; it became radiant. A new springtime appeared through Him, for the Sun of
Truth had risen again. In the fields and meadows of human hearts variegated
flowers of inner significance were blooming, and the good fruits of the Kingdom
of God became manifest.
- ‘Abdu’l-Baha (From a talk, New York, 14 April 1912; ‘The
Promulgation of Universal Peace: Talks Delivered by 'Abdu'l-Bahá during His
Visit to the United States and Canada in 1912’)
