Divine Philosophy - 'Abdu'l-Bahá
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Page 26 of  190

4. THE FOUNDATION OF ALL RELIGIONS IS ONE
The foundation underlying all the divine precepts is one reality. It must needs be reality and reality is one. Therefore the foundation of the divine religions is one. But we can see that certain forms and ceremonies have crept in. They are heretical, they are accidental, because they differ, hence they cause differences among religions. If we set aside all superstitions and see the reality of the foundation we shall all agree, because religion is one and not multiple. (26:1)

5. RELIGION MUST BE IN ACCORD WITH SCIENCE AND REASON
Religion must agree with science, so that science shall sustain religion and religion explain science. The two must be brought together, indissolubly, in reality. Down to the present day it has been customary for man to accept blindly what was called religion, even though it were not in accord with human reason. (26:3)

6. A UNIVERSAL LANGUAGE
A universal language shall be adopted and taught in the schools and academies of the world. A committee appointed by the national bodies shall select a suitable language to be used as a means of international communication. (26:5)

Every one will need but two languages, his national tongue and the universal language. All will acquire the international language. (26:7)

7. UNIVERSAL EDUCATION
Partaking of knowledge and education is one of the requisites of religion. The education of each child is obligatory. If there are no parents, the community must look after the child. It is suggested that the childless educate a child. (26:8)

It is incumbent on every one to engage in some occupation, such as arts, trades, and the like. We have made this -- your occupation -- identical with the worship of God, the true one. Reflect, O people, upon the mercy of God and upon his favors, then thank him in mornings and evenings. (26:10)

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