… material civilization resembles a glass of the utmost
transparency and purity but divine civilization is like a shining lamp. When
these two combine, the utmost perfection will be realized. The light of the
oneness of humanity, of universal peace, of equality of human rights and of
divine morals will emanate from this country to all the regions of the world
and will illumine them all …
Provided they behave moderately, the more people advance in
the material realm, the more their capacity for attaining spirituality is augmented.
The sounder the body, the greater is the resplendency and manifestation of the
spirit. Truly, what impedes spirituality are the dogmas and imitations that are
contrary to true science and a sound mind.
- 'Abdu'l-Baha (Words of ‘Abdu’l-Baha, New York,
June 4, 1912, Mahmud’s Diary)
