chings among the various oriental nations
immediately renounced the spirit of strife and hostility and began to
associate in goodwill and fellowship. From extremes of animosity they
attained the acme of love and brotherhood. They had been warring and
quarreling; now they became loving and lived together in complete unity
and agreement. Among them today you will find no religious, political or
patriotic prejudice; they are friendly, loving and associate in the
greatest happiness. They have no part in the war and strife which take
place in the East; their attitude toward all men is that of goodwill and
loving-kindness. A standard of universal peace has been unfurled among
them. The light of guidance has flooded their souls. It is light upon
light, love upon love. This is the education and training of Baha'u'llah.
He has led these souls to this standard and given them teachings which
ensure eternal illumination. Anyone who becomes well versed in His
teachings will say, "Verily, I declare that these words constitute the
illumination of humanity, that this is the everlasting honor, that these
are heavenly precepts and the cause of never-ending life among men."

8 November 1912
Talk at Eighth Street Temple, Synagogue
Washington, D. C.

Notes by Joseph H. Hannen

God is one, the effulgence of God is one, and humanity constitutes the
servants of that one God. God is kind to all. He creates and provides for
all, and all are under His care and protection. The Sun of Truth, the Word
of God, shines upon all mankind; the divine cloud pours down its precious
rain; the gentle zephyrs of His mercy blow, and all humanity is submerged
in the ocean of His eternal justice and loving-kindness. God has created
mankind from the same progeny in order that they may associate in good
fellowship, exercise love toward each other and live together in unity and
brotherhood.

But we have acted contrary to the will and good pleasure of God. We have
been the cause of enmity and disunion. We have separated from each other
and risen against each other in opposition and strife. How many have been
the wars between peoples and nations! What bloodshed! Numberless are the
cities and homes which have been laid waste. All of this has been contrary
to the good pleasure of God, for He hath willed love for humanity. He is
clement and merciful to all His creatures. He hath ordained amity and
fellowship amongst men.

Most regrettable of all is the stat