Ever since the seeking of preference and distinction came
into play, the world has been laid waste. It hath become desolate ... Indeed,
man is noble, inasmuch as each one is a repository of the sign of God.
Nevertheless, to regard oneself as superior in knowledge, in learning or
virtue, or to exalt oneself or seek preference, is a grievous transgression.
- Baha’u’llah (Cited in a letter of the Universal House of Justice dated 27
March 1978, included in an article titled: ‘Human Rights Discourses: A Baha’i
Perspective’, by Matthew Weinberg; ‘The Baha’i World 1996-1997’)
