Religion the Basis of Civilization

According to the Baha'i view, the problems of human life, individual and
social, are so inconceivably complex that the ordinary human intellect is
incapable of itself of solving them aright. Only the Omniscient fully
knows the purpose of creation and how that purpose may be achieved.
Through the Prophets He shows to mankind the true goal of human life and
the right path of progress; and the building up of a true civilization
depends upon faithful adherence to the guidance of prophetic Revelation.
Baha'u'llah says:--

Religion is the greatest instrument for the order of the world and
the tranquillity of all existent beings. The weakening of the
pillars of religion has encouraged the ignorant and rendered them
audacious and arrogant. Truly I say, whatever lowers the lofty
station of religion will increase heedlessness in the wicked, and
finally result in anarchy....

Consider the civilization of the people of the Occident--how it has
occasioned commotion and agitation to the people of the world.
Infernal instruments have been devised, and such atrocity is
displayed in the destruction of life as has not been seen by the
eye of the world, nor heard by the ear of nations. It is
impossible to reform these violent, overwhelming evils, except the
peoples of the world become united upon a certain issue or under
the shadow of One Religion....

O people of Baha! Each one of the revealed Commands is a mighty
stronghold for the protection of the world.--Words of Paradise.

The present state of Europe and of the world in general eloquently
confirms the truth of these words written so many years ago. Neglect of
the prophetic commands and the prevalence of irreligion have been
accompanied by disorder and destruction on the most terrible scale, and,
without the change of heart and aim which is the essential characteristic
of true religion, the reform of society seems an utter impossibility.

Justice

In the little book of Hidden Words, in which Baha'u'llah gives in brief
the essence of the prophetic teachings, His first counsel refers to the
individual life: "Possess a pure, kindly and radiant heart." The next
indicates the fundamental principle of true social life:--

O Son of Spirit!

The best beloved of all things in My sight is Justice; turn not
away therefrom if thou desirest Me, and n