his indeed is what is meant by this brief
yet highly significant and illuminating pronouncement of Baha'u'llah: "Of
old [Islamic Dispensation] it hath been revealed: 'Love of one's country
is an element of the Faith of God.'" This principle was established and
stressed by the Apostle of God, inasmuch as the evolution of human society
required it at that time. Nor could any stage above and beyond it have
been envisaged, as world conditions preliminary to the establishment of a
superior form of organization were as yet unobtainable. The conception of
nationality, the attainment to the state of nationhood, may, therefore, be
said to be the distinguishing characteristics of the Muhammadan
Dispensation, in the course of which the nations and races of the world,
and particularly in Europe and America, were unified and achieved
political independence.

'Abdu'l-Baha Himself elucidates this truth in one of His Tablets: "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 well-nigh
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.... 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--has 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."

"Behold," He further explains, "how its light is now dawning upon the
world's darkened horizon. The first candle is unity in the political
realm, the early glimmerings of w