The society for which certain of the
laws of the Aqdas are designed will come only gradually into being, and
Bahá’u’lláh has provided for the progressive application of Bahá’í law:
Indeed, the laws of God are like unto
the ocean and the children of men as fish, did they but know it. However, in
observing them one must exercise tact and wisdom... Since most people are
feeble and far-removed from the purpose of God, therefore one must observe tact
and prudence under all conditions, so that nothing might happen that could
cause disturbance and dissension or raise clamour among the heedless. Verily,
His bounty hath surpassed the whole universe and His bestowals encompassed all
that dwell on earth. One must guide mankind to the ocean of true understanding
in a spirit of love and tolerance. The Kitáb-i-Aqdas itself beareth eloquent
testimony to the loving providence of God.
- The Universal House of Justice (‘Introduction to Kitab-i-Aqdas’)
