It is not surprising that individual Bahá'ís hold and
express different and sometimes defective understandings of the Teachings; this
is but an evidence of the magnitude of the change that this Revelation is to
effect in human consciousness. As believers with various insights into the
Teachings converse -- with patience, tolerance and open and unbiased minds -- a
deepening of comprehension should take place. The strident insistence on
individual views, however, can lead to contention, which is detrimental not
only to the spirit of Bahá'í association and collaboration but to the search
for truth itself.
(From a letter dated 8 February 1998 written on behalf of the
Universal House of Justice to an individual believer)
