Were it not for the love of God, the contingent world would
be plunged in darkness. Were it not for the love of God, the hearts of men
would be bereft of life and deprived of the stirrings of conscience. Were it
not for the love of God, the perfections of the human world would entirely
vanish. Were it not for the love of God, no real connection could exist between
human hearts. Were it not for the love of God, spiritual union would be lost.
Were it not for the love of God, the light of the oneness of mankind would be
extinguished. Were it not for the love of God, the East and the West would not
embrace as two lovers. Were it not for the love of God, discord and division
would not be transmuted into fellowship. Were it not for the love of God,
estrangement would not give way to unity. Were it not for the love of God, the
stranger would not become the friend. Indeed, love in the human world is a ray
of the love of God and a reflection of the grace of His bounty.
- ‘Abdu’l-Baha (Table talks in Akka, authenticated by ‘Abdu’l-Baha; ‘Some Answered Questions’ –
2014 revised translation by the Baha’i World Centre)
