In cycles gone by, though harmony was established, yet,
owing to the absence of means, the unity of all mankind could not have been
achieved. Continents remained widely divided, nay even among the peoples of one
and the same continent association and interchange of thought were wellnigh
impossible. Consequently intercourse, understanding and unity amongst all the
peoples and kindreds of the earth were unattainable. In this day, however,
means of communication have multiplied, and the five continents of the earth
have virtually merged into one. And for everyone it is now easy to travel to
any land, to associate and exchange views with its peoples, and to become
familiar, through publications, with the conditions, the religious beliefs and
the thoughts of all men. In like manner all the members of the human family,
whether peoples or governments, cities or villages, have become increasingly
interdependent. For none is self-sufficiency any longer possible, inasmuch as
political ties unite all peoples and nations, and the bonds of trade and
industry, of agriculture and education, are being strengthened every day. Hence
the unity of all mankind can in this day be achieved. Verily this is none other
but one of the wonders of this wondrous age, this glorious century. Of this
past ages have been deprived, for this century—the century of light—hath been
endowed with unique and unprecedented glory, power and illumination. Hence the
miraculous unfolding of a fresh marvel every day. Eventually it will be seen
how bright its candles will burn in the assemblage of man.
- ‘Abdu’l-Baha (‘Selections
from the Writings of ‘Abdu’l-Baha’)
