the economic relations of rich and poor. 'Abdu'l-Baha says:--

The arrangements of the circumstances of the people must be such
that poverty shall disappear, that everyone, as far as possible,
according to his rank and position, shall share in comfort and
well-being. We see among us men who are overburdened with riches
on the one hand, and on the other those unfortunate ones who
starve with nothing; those who possess several stately palaces,
and those who have not where to lay their head.... This condition
of affairs is wrong, and must be remedied. Now the remedy must be
carefully undertaken. It cannot be done by bringing to pass
absolute equality between men. Equality is a chimera! It is
entirely impracticable. Even if equality could be achieved it
could not continue; and if its existence were possible, the whole
order of the world would be destroyed. The Law of Order must
always obtain in the world of humanity. Heaven has so decreed in
the creation of man.... Humanity, like a great army, requires a
general, captains, underofficers in their degree, and soldiers,
each with their appointed duties. Degrees are absolutely necessary
to ensure an orderly organization. An army could not be composed
of generals alone, or of captains only, or of nothing but soldiers
without anyone in authority.

Certainly, some being enormously rich and other lamentably poor,
an organization is necessary to control and improve this state of
affairs. It is important to limit riches, as it is also of
importance to limit poverty. Either extreme is not good.... When
we see poverty allowed to reach a condition of starvation, it is a
sure sign that somewhere we shall find tyranny. Men must bestir
themselves in this matter, and no longer delay in altering
conditions which bring the misery of grinding poverty to a very
large number of people.

The rich must give of their abundance; they must soften their
hearts and cultivate a compassionate intelligence, taking thought
for those sad ones who are suffering from lack of the very
necessaries of life.

There must be special laws made, dealing with these extremes of
rich and want.... The government of the countries should conform
to the Divine Law which gives equal justice to all.... Not until
this is done will the Law of God be obeyed.

Pub