Know verily that Knowledge is of two kinds: Divine and
Satanic. The one welleth out from the fountain of divine inspiration; the other
is but a reflection of vain and obscure thoughts. The source of the former is
God Himself; the motive-force of the latter the whisperings of selfish desire.
The one is guided by the principle: “Fear ye God; God will teach you;” [Qur’án
2:282] the other is but a confirmation of the truth: “Knowledge is the most
grievous veil between man and his Creator.” The former bringeth forth the fruit
of patience, of longing desire, of true understanding, and love; whilst the
latter can yield naught but arrogance, vainglory and conceit.
- Baha'u'llah (The
Kitab-i-Iqan)
