ties! Is it possible that that need
has remained stationary while the world has been advancing in every other
condition and direction? It is impossible.

Therefore, we must invoke and supplicate God and strive with the utmost
effort in order that the world of human existence in all its degrees may
receive a mighty impulse, complete human happiness be attained and the
resuscitation of all spirits and emanations be realized through the
boundless favor of the mercy of God.

26 August 1912
Talk at Franklin Square House
Boston, Massachusetts

Notes by Edna McKinney

Among the teachings of Baha'u'llah is the principle of equality of man and
woman. Baha'u'llah has said that both belong to humankind and that in the
estimation of God they are equal, for each is the complement of the other
in the divine creative plan. The only distinction between them in the
sight of God is the purity and righteousness of their deeds and actions,
for that one is preferred by God who is most nearly in the spiritual image
and likeness of the Creator. Throughout the kingdoms of living organisms
there is sex differentiation in function, but no preference or distinction
is made in favor of either male or female. In the animal kingdom
individual sex exists, but rights are equal and without distinction.
Likewise, in the plane or kingdom of the vegetable sex appears, but
equality of function and right is evident. Inasmuch as sex distinction and
preference are not observed in these kingdoms of inferior intelligence, is
it befitting the superior station of man that he should make such
differentiation and estimate, when as a matter of fact there is no
difference indicated in the law of creation?

In ancient times and medieval ages woman was completely subordinated to
man. The cause of this estimate of her inferiority was her lack of
education. A woman's life and intellect were limited to the household.
Glimpses of this may be found even in the Epistles of Saint Paul. In later
centuries the scope and opportunities of a woman's life broadened and
increased. Her mind unfolded and developed; her perceptions awakened and
deepened. The question concerning her was: Why should a woman be left
mentally undeveloped? Science is praiseworthy--whether investigated by the
intellect of man or woman. So, little by little, woman advanced, giving
increasing evidence of equal capabilities with man--whether in scientific
research, political ability or any other s