fire, whose violence none can quench. The
Hand of Divine power can, alone, deliver mankind from this desolating
affliction....

The utterance of God is a lamp, whose light is these words: Ye are the
fruits of one tree, and the leaves of one branch. Deal ye one with another
with the utmost love and harmony, with friendliness and fellowship. He Who
is the Day Star of Truth beareth Me witness! So powerful is the light of
unity that it can illuminate the whole earth. The one true God, He Who
knoweth all things, Himself testifieth to the truth of these words.

Exert yourselves that ye may attain this transcendent and most sublime
station, the station that can ensure the protection and security of all
mankind. This goal excelleth every other goal, and this aspiration is the
monarch of all aspirations. So long, however, as the thick clouds of
oppression, which obscure the day star of justice, remain undispelled, it
would be difficult for the glory of this station to be unveiled to men's
eyes....

Consort with all men, O people of Baha, in a spirit of friendliness and
fellowship. If ye be aware of a certain truth, if ye possess a jewel, of
which others are deprived, share it with them in a language of utmost
kindliness and good-will. If it be accepted, if it fulfil its purpose,
your object is attained. If any one should refuse it, leave him unto
himself, and beseech God to guide him. Beware lest ye deal unkindly with
him. A kindly tongue is the lodestone of the hearts of men. It is the
bread of the spirit, it clotheth the words with meaning, it is the
fountain of the light of wisdom and understanding....

CXXXIII: THE ORDINANCES OF GOD HAVE BEEN SENT...

The ordinances of God have been sent down from the heaven of His most
august Revelation. All must diligently observe them. Man's supreme
distinction, his real advancement, his final victory, have always
depended, and will continue to depend, upon them. Whoso keepeth the
commandments of God shall attain everlasting felicity.

A twofold obligation resteth upon him who hath recognized the Day Spring
of the Unity of God, and acknowledged the truth of Him Who is the
Manifestation of His oneness. The first is steadfastness in His love, such
steadfastness that neither the clamor of the enemy nor the claims of the
idle pretender can deter him from cleaving unto Him Who is the Eternal
Truth, a steadfastness that taketh no account of them whatever. The second
is strict o