Chapter 9: True Civilization
O people of God! Be not occupied with yourselves. Be intent on the betterment of the world and the training of nations. - Baha'u'llah (87:1)

Religion the Basis of Civilization
According to the Baha'i view, the problems of human life, individual and social, are so inconceivably complex that the ordinary human intellect is incapable of itself of solving them aright. Only the Omniscient fully knows the purpose of creation and how that purpose may be achieved. Through the Prophets He shows to mankind the true goal of human life and the right path of progress; and the building up of a true civilization depends upon faithful adherence to the guidance of prophetic Revelation. Baha'u'llah says: - (87:3)

Religion is verily the chief instrument for the establishment of order in the world and of tranquillity amongst its peoples. The weakening of the pillars of religion hath strengthened the foolish and emboldened them and made them more arrogant. Verily I say: The greater the decline of religion, the more grievous the waywardness of the ungodly. This cannot but lead in the end to chaos and confusion.. (87:4)

Consider the civilization of the West, how it hath agitated and alarmed the peoples of the world. An infernal engine hath been devised, and hath proved so cruel a weapon of destruction that its like none hath ever witnessed or heard. The purging of such deeply- rooted and overwhelming corruptions cannot be effected unless the peoples of the world unite in pursuit of one common aim and embrace one universal faith.. (87:5)

O people of Baha! Each one of the ordinances We have revealed is a mighty stronghold for the preservation of the world of being. - Tablets of Baha'u'llah, Words of Paradise (87:6)

The present state of Europe and of the world in general eloquently confirms the truth of these words written so many years ago. Neglect of the prophetic commands and the prevalence of irreligion have been accompanied by disorder and destruction on the most terrible scale, and, without the change of heart and aim which is the essential characteristic of true religion, the reform of society seems an utter impossibility (87:7)

Justice
In the little book of Hidden Words, in which Baha'u'llah gives in brief the essence of the prophetic teachings, His first counsel refers to the individual life: "Possess a pure, kindly and radiant heart." The next indicates the fundamental principle of true social life: - (87:8)

O Son of Spirit!
The best beloved of all things in My sight is Justice; turn not away therefrom if thou desirest Me, and neglect it not that I may confide in thee. By its aid thou shalt see with thine own eyes and not through the eyes of others, and shalt know of thine own knowledge and not through the knowledge of thy neighbor. Ponder this in thy heart; how it behooveth thee to be. Verily justice is My gift to thee and the sign of My loving- kindness. Set it then before thine eyes (87:9)

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