In the material world of existence, human undertakings are
divided into two kinds universal and specific. The result of every universal
effort is infinite and the outcome of every specific effort is finite…
It is a general axiom that in the world of human endeavor,
every universal affair commands attention and its results and benefits are
limitless. Therefore, let us say that every universal cause is divine and every
specific matter is human. The universal light for this planet is from the sun
and the special light here tonight, which is electric, illumines this banquet
hall through the invention of man. In like manner the activities which are
trying to establish solidarity between the nations and infuse the spirit of
universalism in the hearts of the children of men are like unto divine rays
from the Sun of Reality, and the brightest ray is the coming of the universal
language. Its achievement is the greatest virtue of the age, for such an
instrument will remove misunderstandings from among the peoples of the earth
and will cement their hearts together. This medium will enable each individual
member of the human family to be informed of the scientific accomplishments of
all his fellowmen.
- ‘Abdu’l-Baha (From a talk given at Esperanto group, Paris,
France, February 12, 1913; Star of the West, vol. 4, no. 2, April 9, 1913)
