rmation. Abraham heralded this
reality, Moses promulgated it, and Jesus Christ established it in the
world of mankind. All the divine Prophets and Messengers were the
instruments and channels of this same eternal, essential truth.

The second kind of ordinances in the divine religions is those which
relate to the material affairs of humankind. These are the material or
accidental laws which are subject to change in each day of manifestation,
according to exigencies of the time, conditions and differing capacities
of humanity. For instance, in the day of Moses ten commandments in regard
to murder were revealed by Him. These commandments were in accordance with
the requirements of that day and time. Other laws embodying drastic
punishments were enacted by Moses--an eye for an eye, a tooth for a tooth.
The penalty for theft was amputation of the hand. These laws and penalties
were applicable to the degree of the Israelitish people of that period,
who dwelt in the wilderness and desert under conditions where severity was
necessary and justifiable. But in the time of Jesus Christ this kind of
law was not expedient; therefore, Christ abrogated and superseded the
commands of Moses.

In brief, every one of the divine religions contains essential ordinances,
which are not subject to change, and material ordinances, which are
abrogated according to the exigencies of time. But the people of the world
have forsaken the divine teachings and followed forms and imitations of
the truth. Inasmuch as these human interpretations and superstitions
differ, dissensions and bigotry have arisen, and strife and warfare have
prevailed. By investigating the truth or foundation of reality underlying
their own and other beliefs, all would be united and agreed, for this
reality is one; it is not multiple and not divisible.

The second principle or teaching of Baha'u'llah is the proclamation of the
oneness of the world of humanity--that all are servants of God and belong
to one family; that God has created all and, therefore, His bestowals are
universal; and that His providence, training, sustenance and
loving-kindness surround all mankind.

This is the divine policy, and it is impossible for man to lay the
foundation of a better plan and policy than that which God has instituted.
Therefore, we must recognize and assist the purpose of the glorious Lord.
Inasmuch as God is kind and loving to all, why should we be unkind? As
this human world is one