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)
