War

War, Jihad, Ethnic Cleansing

There is a fallacy to this whole concept of jihad, and what the jihadists are actually doing to the rest of humanity in this day and time; and the things they are doing and the reasons they are giving for the things they are doing to their fellow human brothers and sisters are steeped in dense veils of complete, manmade human fallacy and lies!!! Their book, The Qur’an, does not teach or state the things they are saying it is telling them to do, but teaches and tells Muslims to do just the opposite of what these extremely fanatical, monstrous people are doing to the rest of humanity; in-fact the Qur’an warns them and tells them to do just the opposite of the things they are stating and doing to the innocent people they are attacking and killing!!!      

Deuteronomy: 20:10 When thou comest nigh unto a city to fight against it, then proclaim peace unto it. 20:11 And it shall be, if it make thee answer of peace, and open unto thee, then it shall be, that all the people that is found therein shall be tributaries unto thee, and they shall serve thee. 20:12 And if it will make no peace with thee, but will make war against thee, then thou shalt besiege it: 20:13 And when the LORD thy God hath delivered it into thine hands, thou shalt smite every male thereof with the edge of the sword: 20:14 But the women, and the little ones, and the cattle, and all that is in the city, even all the spoil thereof, shalt thou take unto thyself; and thou shalt eat the spoil of thine enemies, which the LORD thy God hath given thee. 20:15 Thus shalt thou do unto all the cities which are very far off from thee, which are not of the cities of these nations. 20:16 But of the cities of these people, which the LORD thy God doth give thee for an inheritance, thou shalt save alive nothing that breatheth: 20:17 But thou shalt utterly destroy them; namely, the Hittites, and the Amorites, the Canaanites, and the Perizzites, the Hivites, and the Jebusites; as the LORD thy God hath commanded thee: 20:18 That they teach you not to do after all their abominations, which they have done unto their gods; so should ye sin against the LORD your God.

 

(King James Bible, Deuteronomy)

 

12:14 Follow peace with all men, and holiness, without which no man shall see the Lord:

 

(King James Bible, Hebrews)

 

Do not take the initiative in fighting, let them begin it. It is because by the Favour of Allah you are on the side of truth and justice. Leave them until they begin their hostilities and then you are at liberty to take to fighting. Their keenness to begin a battle will be another proof of your sincere belief in the orders of Allah .

 

(Ali b. Abi Taalib, Letters from Nahjul Balaagh)

“The Prophet said, ‘He who follows the ways and traditions of the Days of Ignorance is not one of us.”’ And, “The most hated persons to Allah, is a person who deviates from the right conduct, a person who seeks the traditions of the Pre-Islamic Period of Ignorance, and a person who seeks to shed somebody’s blood without any right .” (Islam, Hadith, Bukhari Vol 2, Book 23, # 382 and Vol 9, Book 83, # 21)

No matter what you call it

“The purpose underlying the revelation of every heavenly Book, nay, of every divinely-revealed verse, is to endue all men with righteousness and understanding, so that peace and tranquillity may be firmly established amongst them. Whatsoever instilleth assurance into the hearts of men, whatsoever exalteth their station or promoteth their contentment, is acceptable in the sight of God. How lofty is the station which man, if he but choose to fulfill his high destiny, can attain! To what depths of degradation he can sink, depths which the meanest of creatures have never reached! Seize, O friends, the chance which this Day offereth you, and deprive not yourselves of the liberal effusions of His grace. I beseech God that He may graciously enable every one of you to adorn himself, in this blessed Day, with the ornament of pure and holy deeds. He, verily, doeth whatsoever He willeth.”

 

(Baha’u’llah, Gleanings from the Writings of Baha’u’llah, p. 205)

 

“Beware lest ye shed the blood of any one. Unsheathe the sword of your tongue from the scabbard of utterance, for therewith ye can conquer the citadels of men’s hearts. We have abolished the law to wage holy war against each other. God’s mercy hath, verily, encompassed all created things, if ye do but understand.”

 

(Baha’u’llah, Epistle to the Son of the Wolf, p. 24)

 

“O Rulers of the earth! Be reconciled among yourselves, that ye may need no more armaments save in a measure to safeguard your territories and dominions. Beware lest ye disregard the counsel of the All-Knowing, the Faithful.”

“Be united, O Kings of the earth, for thereby will the tempest of discord be stilled amongst you, and your people find rest, if ye be of them that comprehend. Should any one among you take up arms against another, rise ye all against him, for this is naught but manifest justice.”

 

(Baha’u’llah, The Proclamation of Baha’u’llah, p. 12)

 

“We pray God — exalted be His glory — and cherish the hope that He may graciously assist the manifestations of affluence and power and the daysprings of sovereignty and glory, the kings of the earth — may God aid them through His strengthening grace — to establish the Lesser Peace. This, indeed, is the greatest means for insuring the tranquillity of the nations. It is incumbent upon the Sovereigns of the world — may God assist them — unitedly to hold fast unto this Peace, which is the chief instrument for the protection of all mankind. It is Our hope that they will arise to achieve what will be conducive to the well-being of man. It is their duty to convene an all-inclusive assembly, which either they themselves or their ministers will attend, and to enforce whatever measures are required to establish unity and concord amongst men. They must put away the weapons of war, and turn to the instruments of universal reconstruction. Should one king rise up against another, all the other kings must arise to deter him. Arms and armaments will, then, be no more needed beyond that which is necessary to insure the internal security of their respective countries. If they attain unto this all-surpassing blessing, the people of each nation will pursue, with tranquillity and contentment, their own occupations, and the groanings and lamentations of most men would be silenced. We beseech God to aid them to do His will and pleasure. He, verily, is the Lord of the throne on high and of earth below, and the Lord of this world and of the world to come. It would be preferable and more fitting that the highly honored kings themselves should attend such an assembly, and proclaim their edicts. Any king who will arise and carry out this task, he verily will, in the sight of God, become the cynosure of all kings. Happy is he, and great is his blessedness!”

 

(Baha’u’llah, Epistle to the Son of the Wolf, p. 30)

 

JUDAISM: Ezekiel 37:26 “Moreover I will make a covenant of peace with them; it shall be an everlasting covenant with them: and I will place them, and multiply them, and will set my sanctuary in the midst of them for evermore.’”

Psalms 29:11 “The LORD will give strength unto his people; the LORD will bless His people with peace.”

Psalms 37:11 “But the meek shall inherit the earth; and shall delight themselves in the abundance of peace.”

Psalms 76:9 “…..God arose to judgment, to save all the meek of the earth.”

Isaiah 2:4 “And He shall judge among the nations, and shall rebuke many people: and they shall beat their swords into plowshares, and their spears into pruninghooks: nation shall not lift up sword against nation, neither shall they learn war any more.”

Isaiah 9:7 “Of the increase of his government and peace there shall be no end, upon the throne of David, and upon his kingdom, to order it, and to establish it with judgment and with justice from henceforth even for ever.”

Isaiah 32:17 “And the work of righteousness shall be peace; and the effect of righteousness quietness and assurance for ever.”

Isaiah 32:18 “And My people shall dwell in a peaceable habitation, and in sure dwellings, and in quiet resting places;”

Isaiah 54:10 “For the mountains shall depart, and the hills be removed; but My kindness shall not depart from thee, neither shall the covenant of My peace be removed, saith the LORD that hath mercy on thee.”

Micah 4: 3 “And He shall judge among many people, and rebuke strong nations afar off; and they shall beat their swords into plowshares, and their spears into pruninghooks: nation shall not lift up a sword against nation, neither shall they learn war any more.”

Psalms 133:1 “Behold, how good and how pleasant it is for brethren to dwell together in unity!”

Isaiah 26:12 “LORD, thou wilt ordain peace for us: for thou also hast wrought all our works in us.”

Isaiah 54:13 “And all thy children shall be taught of the LORD; and great shall be the peace of thy children.”

CHRISTIANITY: Matthew 5:5 “Blessed are the meek: for they shall inherit the earth.”

Matthew 6:9 “After this manner therefore pray ye: Our Father which art in heaven, Hallowed be thy name.”

Matthew 6:10 “Thy kingdom come. Thy will be done in earth, as it is in heaven.”

Romans 10:15 “How beautiful are the feet of them that preach the gospel of peace, and bring glad tidings of good things!”

1 Corinthians 7:15 “God hath called us to peace.”

2 Corinthians 13:11 “Finally, brethren, farewell. Be perfect, be of good comfort, be of one mind, live in peace; and the God of love and peace shall be with you.”

Ephesians 4:1 “I therefore, the prisoner of the Lord, beseech you that ye walk worthy of the vocation wherewith ye are called, 4:2 With all lowliness and meekness, with longsuffering, forbearing one another in love;” 4:3 “Endeavouring to keep the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace.” 4:4 “There is one body, and one Spirit, even as ye are called in one hope of your calling;” 4:5 “One Lord, one faith, one baptism, 4:6 “One God and Father of all, who is above all, and through all, and in you all.”

 

  1. “Let there be peace and tranquility for all the creatures of Allah.” “enter not into conflict,”

 

(Islam, Ali b. Abi Taalib, Letters from Nahjul Balaagh, Masnavi Vol 1)

 

  1. “Let there be no (forced) compulsion in religion. Truth stands out clear from error!”

 

(The Qur’an (Yusuf Ali tr), Surah   2)

 

“Let there be no compulsion in Religion. Now is the right way made distinct from error.”

 

(The Qur’an (Rodwell tr), Sura   2 – The Cow)

 

“When you face your enemy, stand in the midst of your army, never alone. Do not be over-anxious to fight and do not behave as if you craving for a combat or aspiring for an encounter, but at the same time do not try to avoid your enemy or to evade an engagement as if you are afraid or nervous. Keep my orders in mind and act accordingly until you get further instructions. Do not let the hatred and enmity of your opponents force you to a combat, do not begin a battle even if the enemy so desires unless you have explored every avenue of amity and good-will and have exhausted all the chances of a peaceful settlement.”

 

(Ali b. Abi Taalib, Letters from Nahjul Balaagh)

 

  1. “Fight in the Cause of Allah, those who fight you (protect yourself, your family and the cause of Allah), but do not transgress limits (do not instigate the hostilities yourself); for Allah loveth not transgressors.

“And, slay them wherever ye catch them, and turn them out from where they have turned you out; for tumult and oppression are worse than slaughter; but fight them not at the Sacred Mosque, unless they (first) fight you there; but if they fight you, slay them. Such is the reward of those who suppress faith. But, if they cease, Allah is Oft-Forgiving, Most Merciful. And fight them on until there is no more tumult or oppression, and there prevail justice and faith in Allah; but if they cease (fighting you), let there be no hostility except to those who practice oppression.”

 

(The Qur’an (Yusuf Ali tr), Surah   2)

 

15 “There hath come to you from Allah a (new) Light and a perspicuous Book.” 16. “Wherewith Allah guideth all who seek His good pleasure to ways of peace and safety, and leadeth them out of darkness, by His Will, unto the light, guideth them to a Path that is Straight.”

 

(The Qur’an (Yusuf Ali tr), Surah   5)

  1. Say: “Come, I will rehearse what Allah hath (really) prohibited you from”: join not anything as equal with Him; be good to your parents: kill not your children on a plea of want; — We provide sustenance for you and for them; — come not nigh to shameful deeds, whether open or secret; take not life, which Allah hath made sacred, except by way of justice and law: thus doth He command you, that ye may learn wisdom.

 

(The Qur’an (Yusuf Ali tr), Surah   6)

  1. “If Allah were to punish men for their wrongdoing, He would not leave, on the (earth), a single living creature: but He gives them respite for a stated term: when their term expires, they would not be able to delay (the punishment) for a single hour, just as they would not be able to anticipate it for a single hour.” “They attribute to Allah what they hate and their tongues assert the falsehood that all good things are for themselves: without doubt for them is the fire, and they will be the first to be hastened on into it!” “By Allah, We sent (our prophets) to peoples before thee; but Satan made, (to the wicked), their own acts seem alluring: he is also their patron today, and they shall have a most grievous Penalty.” “We sent down the Book to thee for the express purpose, that thou shouldst make clear to them those things in which they differ, and that it should be a guide and a mercy.” But “It is those who believe not in the Signs of Allah that forge the falsehood: it is they who lie!” “This because they love the life of this world better than the hereafter: and Allah will not guide those who reject faith.” “Those are they whose hearts, ears, and eyes Allah has sealed up, and they take no heed.” “Without doubt, in the hereafter they will perish.”

(The Qur’an (Yusuf Ali tr), Surah  16)

 

  1. “Seest thou not that Allah sends down the rain from the sky, and forthwith the earth becomes clothed with green? For Allah is He Who understands the finest mysteries, and is well-acquainted (with them).” “(For) to Him belongs all that is in the heavens and on earth: for verily Allah is Free of all wants and Worthy of all praise.” “Seest thou not that Allah has made subject unto (us, all mankind) all that is on this earth and the ships that sail through the sea by His command? He withholds the sky (rain) from falling on the earth except by His leave: for Allah is (Good), Most Kind and Most Merciful (to all of mankind, to everyone, not just a tiny group of people who seem to think or believe that they are somehow privileged and the only ones blessed by Allah).” 70. (For) “it is Allah who creates you (and me) and takes (our) souls at death; for Allah is All-Knowing, All-Powerful.” “And Allah has made for you mates (and companions) of your own nature. And made for you, out of them, sons and daughters and grandchildren, and provided for you sustenance of the best: will they then believe in vain things, and be ungrateful for Allah’s favors?” “Invent not similitudes (similarity or resemblance to something else) for Allah: for Allah knoweth, and ye know not.” Do not be of those people who try to recreate Allah in their image after their own thoughts and feelings, believing that just because they think a certain way that this is the absolute and only truth, and that, this is what God really is, and only they can know the reality of Allah’s true thoughts, nature and motives, and that only they know anything about The True Creator of life, the universe and everything that is. If people were to actually read The Holy Books of God, for themselves, with truly, unbiased and open minds, the people of the world would know that God is a Good and Loving Father and overseer to us all, and that maybe we, as in, the whole of humanity, should realize just how silly and absurd these ungodly, hateful thoughts and actions poisoning the minds of people and society really is. Allah is a God of love, kindness and goodness, so where exactly we find all this hate, your brother and sister in the name of God, in His Holy Writings; is the question? This is a creation of man, not God, so men of greed and desire can abuse and steal from others, and try to force their will and thoughts on others, so they can try and have control and power over others; whether, any of these people really know anything about God, in reality, is of course, the real question; they just seem to want to choose for you, what you should believe in and think, and what you should do with your life and existence, in this creation; as if they, or any one of us, for that matter, are in anyway special, when it comes whatever the true reality of God really is? “For Allah knoweth, and ye know not,” I mean how could you really know anything about God beyond what His messengers tell us? God is unknowable: 103. “No vision can grasp Him, but His grasp is over all vision: He is above all comprehension, and yet is acquainted with all things.” 180. “Glory to thy Lord, the Lord of Honor and Power! (and He is free) from what they ascribe (to Him)!” So, in-other-words, whatever we think we know about Allah (God), and declare about Him to others? We are, in reality, totally ignorant and don’t really know a thing about Him. So people, if you want to know something about God and His religious teachings, read for yourself what-so-ever you can find about Him and His teachings and maybe He will share something with you for making the personal effort, on your part, to know Him?

(The Qur’an (Yusuf Ali tr), Surahs 6, 16, 22 and 37)

 

“You have challenged me to a battle. I accept your challenge. But I have a proposal to make. Why have a war involving murder and bloodshed of thousands of ignorant people? Why be a scourge to mankind? Let us have mercy on them, whether they are sincere and Allah-fearing Muslims, or ignorant, unenlightened and greedy mercenaries misguided and fooled by you. Let there be peace and tranquillity for all the creatures of Allah.”

 

(Ali b. Abi Taalib, Letters from Nahjul Balaagh)

 

  1. “Ye are the best of peoples, evolved for mankind, enjoining what is right, forbidding what is wrong, and believing in Allah. If only the People of the Book had faith, it were best for them; among them are some who have faith, but most of them are perverted transgressors.”

“They will do you no harm, barring a trifling annoyance; if they come out to fight you (if they start hostilities, fight them), they will show you their backs, and no help shall they get. Shame is pitched over them (like a tent) wherever they are found, except when under a covenant (of protection) from Allah and from men; they draw on themselves wrath from Allah, and pitched over them is (the tent of) destitution. This, because they rejected the signs of Allah, and slew the Prophets in defiance of right; this because they rebelled and transgressed beyond bounds.”

 

(The Qur’an (Yusuf Ali tr), Surah   3)

 

  1. “Allah doth call to the Home of Peace: He doth guide whom He pleaseth to a way that is straight.” 24. “Peace unto you for that ye persevered in patience!”

 

(The Qur’an (Yusuf Ali tr), Surahs 10 and 13)

 

  1. “Except those who join a group between whom and you there is a treaty (of peace), or those who approach you with hearts restraining them from fighting you as well as fighting their own people. If Allah had pleased, He could have given them power over you, and they would have fought you: therefore if they withdraw from you but fight you not, and (instead) send you (guarantees of) peace, then Allah hath opened no way for you (to war against them).” Allah has not granted hostilities against people who desire peace. No permission is given to fight and war against the peace loving in anyway what-so-ever: “Allah hath opened NO WAY!!! for you (to war against them).” “Allah alloweth you no way against them.” Therefore, if Muslims do start fighting against Allah’s will He could very well go against them and grant victory to their enemies as Muhammad warns: “If Allah had pleased, He could have given them power over you!”

 

(The Qur’an (Yusuf Ali tr), Surah   4)

 

90 “Except those who seek refuge with a people between whom and you there is a covenant, or (those who) come unto you because their hearts forbid them to make war on you or make war on their own folk. Had Allah willed He could have given them power over you so that assuredly they would have fought you. So, if they hold aloof from you and wage not war against you and offer you peace, Allah alloweth you no way against them.”

 

(The Qur’an (Pickthall tr), Sura   4 – Women)

 

  1. “Wrong not yourselves…. and fight the pagans all together as they fight you all together. But know that Allah is with those who restrain themselves.” So, if you don’t have to fight with others, but other means of peace are available to you, restrain yourselves, by the will of Allah, “Allah guideth not those who reject faith,” or those who disobey His words: “if anyone disobeys Allah and His Messenger, he is indeed on a clearly wrong Path.” For “Allah is not pleased with those who disobey.” And “those who disobey Allah and His Messenger and transgress His limits will be admitted to a fire, to abide therein: and they shall have a humiliating punishment.”

 

(The Qur’an (Yusuf Ali tr), Surahs 4, 9 and 33)

 

  1. “The Jews say: ‘Allah’s hand is tied up.’ Be their hands tied up and be they accursed for the (blasphemy) they utter. Nay, both His hands are widely outstretched: He giveth and spendeth (of His bounty) as He pleaseth. But the revelation that cometh to thee from Allah increaseth in most of them their obstinate rebellion and blasphemy. Amongst them We have placed enmity and hatred till the Day of Judgment. Every time they kindle the fire of war, Allah doth extinguish it; but they (ever) strive to do mischief on earth. And Allah loveth not those who do mischief. 65. If only the People of the Book had believed and been righteous, We should indeed have blotted out their iniquities and admitted them to gardens of Bliss. 66. If only they had stood fast by the Law, the Gospel, and all the revelation that was sent to them from their Lord, they would have enjoyed happiness from every side. There is from among them a party on the right course; but many of them follow a course that is evil.”

 

(The Qur’an (Yusuf Ali tr), Surah   5)

 

  1. “Allah has promised, to those among you who believe and work righteous deeds, that He will, of a surety, grant them in the land, inheritance (?), as He granted it to those before them; that He will establish in authority their religion — the one which He has chosen for them; and that He will change (their state), after the fear in which they (lived), to one of security and peace: ‘They will worship Me alone and not associate aught with Me.”’ He will establish their religion, one which He chooses for them, and they shall live in security and peace, as those who inherited the land before them. This is a prophecy if I have ever heard one and it promises a future of peace. 59. “Say: Praise be to Allah, and Peace on His servants whom He has chosen (for His Message).”

 

(The Qur’an (Yusuf Ali tr), Surahs 24 and 27)

 

  1. “O ye who believe! fight the unbelievers who gird you about, and let them find firmness in you; and know that Allah is with those who fear Him.” 39. “To those against whom war is made, permission is given (to fight) because they are wronged — and verily, Allah is Most powerful for their aid.”

 

(The Qur’an (Yusuf Ali tr), Surahs 9 and  22)

 

  1. “Peace! — a Word (of salutation) from a Lord Most Merciful!”

 

(The Qur’an (Yusuf Ali tr), Surah  36)

 

  1. “And those who feared their Lord will be led to the Garden in crowds: until behold, they arrive there; its gates will be opened: and its Keepers will say: ‘Peace be upon you! Well have ye done! Enter ye here, to dwell therein.”’ This is also a prophecy, I believe, promised to those people who accept the Bahá’í Faith who will dwell in the peaceful teachings of the faith.

 

(The Qur’an (Yusuf Ali tr), Surah  39)

 

  1. “And the Garden will be brought nigh to the righteous — no more a thing distant.” 32. “(A voice will say:) ‘This is what was promised for you, for everyone who turned (to Allah) in sincere repentance, who kept (his law).’” 33. “Who feared (Allah) Most Gracious unseen, and brought a heart turned in devotion (to Him):” 34. “Enter ye therein in Peace and Security; this is a Day of Eternal Life!”

 

(The Qur’an (Yusuf Ali tr), Surah  50)

 

  1. “And those who fear the displeasure of their Lord. For their Lord’s displeasure is the opposite of Peace and Tranquility.” Therefore, the pleasure of The Lord is peace and tranquility for mankind, not the flames of war. Make peace with your neighbors and fellow human brothers and sisters, not war and bloodshed. This, according to what Muhammad tells us, in the Quran, is what Allah truly desires for all of us; whatever religion we may be from and whatever culture we may find our self born into.

 

(The Qur’an (Yusuf Ali tr), Surah  70)

 

  1. “Verily Allah will defend (from ill) those who believe: verily, Allah loveth not any that is a traitor to faith, or shows ingratitude. 39. To those against whom war is made, permission is given (to fight) because they are wronged — and verily, Allah is Most powerful for their aid.” But, to those to whom war is not waged, war is not waged with the permission of Allah and is not sanctioned with His blessings, or grace.

 

(The Qur’an (Yusuf Ali tr), Surah  22)

 

“My Lord hath forbidden filthy actions whether open or secret, and iniquity, and unjust violence,”

 

(The Qur’an (Rodwell tr), Sura   7 – Al Araf)

 

  1. “It may be that Allah will grant love (and friendship) between you and those whom ye (now) hold as enemies: for Allah has power (over all things); and Allah is Oft-Forgiving, Most Merciful. Allah forbids you not, with regard to those who fight you not for (your) Faith nor drive you out of your homes, from dealing kindly and justly with them: for Allah loveth those who are just.”

 

(The Qur’an (Yusuf Ali tr), Surah  60)

 

36 “Lo! the number of the months with Allah is twelve months by Allah’s ordinance in the day that He created the heavens and the earth. Four of them are sacred: that is the right religion. So wrong not yourselves in them. And wage war on all of the idolaters as they are waging war on all of you. And know that Allah is with those who keep their duty (unto Him).”

 

(The Qur’an (Pickthall tr), Sura   9 – Repentance)

 

  1. “Come, I will rehearse what Allah hath (really) prohibited you from: join not anything as equal with Him; be good to your parents: kill not your children (males or females) on a plea of want; — We provide sustenance for you and for them; — come not nigh to shameful deeds, whether open or secret; take not life, which Allah hath made sacred, except by way of justice and law: thus doth He command you, that ye may learn wisdom.”

 

(The Qur’an (Yusuf Ali tr), Surah   6)

 

 

  1. (But the treaties are) not dissolved with those pagans with whom ye have entered into alliance and who have not subsequently failed you in aught, nor aided anyone against you. So fulfil your engagements with them to the end of their term: for Allah loveth the righteous.

 

  1. But when the forbidden months are past, then fight and slay the pagans wherever ye find them and seize them, beleaguer them and lie in wait for them in every stratagem (of war); but if they repent, and establish regular prayers and practice regular charity, then open the way for them: for Allah is Oft-Forgiving, Most Merciful.

 

  1. If one amongst the pagans ask thee for asylum, grant it to him, so that he may hear the word of Allah and then escort him to where he can be secure: that is because they are men without knowledge.

 

  1. How can there be a league before Allah and His Messenger, with the pagans, except those with whom ye made a treaty near the sacred mosque? As long as these stand true to you, stand ye true to them: For Allah doth love the righteous.

 

Volume 4, Book 52, Number 268:

 

Narrated Abu Huraira:

 

Allah’s Apostle called,: “War is deceit”.

 

(Hadith, Bukhari Vol 4)

 

 

  1. Never should a believer kill a believer; but (if it so happens) by mistake, (compensation is due): if one (so) kills a believer, it is ordained that he should free a believing slave, and pay compensation to the deceased’s family, unless they remit it freely. If the deceased belonged to a people at war with you, and he was a believer, the freeing of a believing slave (is enough). If he belonged to a people with whom ye have a treaty of mutual alliance, compensation should be paid to his family, and a believing slave be freed. For those who find this beyond their means, (is prescribed) a fast for two months running: by way of repentance to Allah: for Allah hath all knowledge and all wisdom.”
  2. “If a man kills a believer intentionally, his recompense is Hell, to abide therein (for ever): and the wrath and the curse of Allah are upon him, and a dreadful penalty is prepared for him.”

 

(The Qur’an (Yusuf Ali tr), Surah   4)

 

  1. “To each is a goal to which Allah turns him; then strive together toward all that is good. Where-so-ever ye are, Allah will bring you together (as one human family). For Allah hath power over all things.” “A similar (favor have We, in past ages, already sent), in that We have sent among you a Messenger of your own, rehearsing to you Our signs, and sanctifying you, and instructing you in Scripture and wisdom, and in new Knowledge.” “Then do ye remember Me and I will remember you. Be grateful unto Me, and reject not faith.” “O ye who believe! seek help with patient perseverance and prayer; for Allah is with (all) those who patiently persevere.” Mankind is one human family, “So make peace and reconciliation between your (fellow) brothers: And fear Allah, that ye may receive Mercy.”

 

(The Qur’an (Yusuf Ali tr), Surahs 2 and 49)

 

 

“The nearest people to Abraham, are those who follow him and those who follow the Holy Prophet (s) and the true believers. Allah is the guardian of the true believers” [Qur’án, 2:68 ]

 

 

 

  1. “If two parties among the Believers fall into a quarrel make ye peace between them: but if one of them transgresses beyond bounds against the other, then fight ye (all) against the one that transgresses until it complies with the command of Allah; but if it complies, then make peace between them with justice, and be fair: for Allah loves those who are fair (and just).” 10. “The believers are but a single Brotherhood: So make peace and reconciliation between your two (contending) brothers: And fear Allah, that ye may receive Mercy.”
  2. “Believers are those who, when Allah (God) is mentioned, feel a tremor in their hearts, and when they hear His signs rehearsed, find their faith strengthened, and put (all) their trust in their Lord.” “Who establish regular prayers and spend (freely) out of the gifts We have given them for sustenance:” “Such in truth are the true believers: they (that) have grades of dignity with their Lord, and forgiveness, and generous (with their) sustenance.”
  3. “This is the Book; in it is guidance sure, without doubt, to those who fear Allah. Who believe in the Unseen, are steadfast in prayer, and spend out of what We have provided for them. And who believe in the Revelation sent to thee, and sent before thy time, and (in their hearts) have the assurance of the Hereafter. They are on (true) guidance (they are true believers), from their Lord, and it is these who will prosper.” The true Believers are to be found in all the religions of God, according to this definition, of what a true believer is, according to the prophet Muhammad: (they) “who believe in the Revelation sent to thee, and sent before thy time.” With this one statement Muhammad includes all the religions that Allah has sent messengers to, because there are people, who believe this way, and who do all of these things in all of the religions of God: 62. “Those who believe (in the Qur’án) and those who follow the Jewish (Scriptures), and the Christian (Scriptures), and the Sabian (Scriptures), and who believe in Allah and the last day, and (who) work righteousness, shall have their reward with their Lord; on them shall be no fear, nor shall they grieve;” which means, according to the words of Allah: “If two parties among the Believers fall into a quarrel make ye peace between them.” Thus, Muslims should be trying to help bring peace to religions of God around the world, and avoid acts of war and violence as much as possible. “So, make peace and reconciliation between your two (contending) brothers and fear Allah, that ye may receive (His) Mercy.” True Muslims, should, therefore, be peace makers in this world of ours, and not fanatics or war mongers; according to the words of Allah and Muhammad. Muslims, around the world should be promoting peace. They should be the peace keepers of the world; for all the believers, the Muslims, the Jews, the Sabians and the Christians, are all God’s chosen ones, and all of them, “shall have their reward with their Lord (will be able to enter heaven); on them shall be no fear, nor shall they grieve;” or in-other-words cruelty and violence and war should not be perpetrated against them, for they are not to be made to fear or grieve; again according to the words of Allah and the teachings of Muhammad, found in the Qur’an; which are the true words of Allah, not just hearsay that might or might not be true, according to history that tells us that some of these writings, in works like The Hadith, were tampered with by people trying to gain power within Islam. Mankind is one human family, “make peace and reconciliation between your brothers.” And, always keep this in mind: “If a man kills a believer intentionally, his recompense is Hell, to abide therein (forever): and the wrath and the curse of Allah are upon him, and a dreadful penalty is prepared for him.”

“I went out carrying my arms during the nights of the affliction (i.e. the war between Ali and Aisha) and Abu Bakra met me and asked, ‘Where are you going?’ I replied, ‘I intend to help the cousin of Allah’s Apostle (i.e., Ali).’ Abu Bakra said, ‘Allah’s Apostle said, ‘If two believers take out their swords to fight each other, then both of them will be from amongst the people of the Hell-Fire.’ It was said to the Prophet, ‘It is alright for the killer but what about the killed one?’ He replied, ‘The killed one had the intention to kill his opponent.”’

 

(The Qur’an (Yusuf Ali tr), Surahs 2, 4, 8, 49 and Hadith, Bukhari Vol 9, Book 88, # 204)

 

“Those who have the same religion as you have; they are brothers to you, and those who have religions other than that of yours, they are human beings like you. Men of either category suffer from the same weaknesses and disabilities that human beings are inclined to, they commit sins, indulge in vices either intentionally or foolishly and unintentionally without realizing the enormity of their deeds. Let your mercy and compassion come to their rescue and help in the same way and to the same extent that you expect Allah to show mercy and forgiveness to you.”

 

(Ali b. Abi Taalib, Letters from Nahjul Balaagh)

 

  1. “(Zarathushtra:) Do ye, O Ahura, grant them strength, and O Asha, and O Good Thought, that dominion, whereby he (the Savior, the future deliverer) could produce good dwellings and peace. I also have realized thee, Mazda, as the first to accomplish this.” Zarathushtra is praying to Mazda (God) for a savior to bring about peace and stating that this deliverance of peace to humanity is going to be accomplished by Mazda at sometime in the future. But the thing is, peace is going to happen on this earth. “making straight the paths for the Religion of the future Deliverer which Ahura ordained.”

 

(The Zend-Avesta, Avesta – Yasnas 29 and 53)

 

  1. “Not for his soul shall the two spirits wage war with one another; (Do not wage war with one another and be blessed) and when he enters Paradise, the stars, the moon, and the sun shall rejoice in him; and I, Ahura Mazda, shall rejoice in him, saying: ‘Hail, O man (of peace)! thou who hast just passed from the decaying world into the undecaying one!’”

 

(The Zend-Avesta, Avesta – Vendidad)

 

  1. “I pledge myself to the Mazdayasnian religion, which causes the attack to be put off and weapons put down;” “And we worship the victorious Peace.”

 

(Zoroaster, The Zend-Avesta, Avesta – Visperad and Yasna 12)

 

  1. “Violence must be put down! against cruelty make a stand, ye who would make sure of the reward of Good Thought through Right, to whose company the holy man belongs. His dwelling place shall be in thy House, O Ahura.” Heaven shall be his abode.

 

(The Zend-Avesta, Avesta – Yasna 48)

 

  1. “May Sraosha (Obedience) conquer disobedience within this house, and may peace triumph over discord here, and generous giving over avarice, reverence over contempt, speech with Truthful words over lying utterance. May the Righteous Order gain the victory over the Demon of the Lie.”

 

(The Zend-Avesta, Avesta – Yasna)

 

“Maha Ratu Zarathustra enjoins love for the whole of mankind. One who does not love man, does not really love God. It should be realized that one soul resides in all. Thus one should be a friend to everyone. This social service, which is the concrete of the life of the individual, is not to be confined to any particular country but should extend throughout the world to the whole of humanity.” Thereby, will peace and security rein amongst humanity and war and violence be a thing of the past. (ZOROASTER, Hymns of Atharvan pp. 547 and 548)

 

“I pledge myself to the Mazdayasnian religion, which causes the attack to be put off and weapons put down; which of all religions that exist or shall be, is the greatest, the best, and the most beautiful: Ahuric, Zoroastrian. I ascribe all good to Ahura Mazda (God). This is the creed of the Mazdayasnian religion.”

 

(The Zend-Avesta, Khorda Avesta – Book of Common Prayer pt. 1)

 

“Love attracts, while fear repels. Thus love is the principle of unity, unity with God and unity with men.” “When men love and help one another to the best of their power they derive the greatest pleasure from loving their fellow-men.” “The religion of the Gatha is the religion of love, and Mazda is the friend of men.” Thus, the religion of Ahura (God) is a religion of love, peace and unity, where violence is dispelled by peace, in the name of God. (ZOROASTER, Hymns of Atharvan p. 500, 507 and Denkard)

 

“The world is overcome- aye! even here! By such as fix their faith on Unity. The sinless Brahma dwells in Unity, And they in Brahma. Be not over-glad Attaining joy, and be not over-sad Encountering grief, but, stayed on Brahma, still Constant let each abide! The sage whose soul

Holds off from outer contacts, in himself Finds bliss; to Brahma joined by piety, His spirit tastes eternal peace.” The promise of peace obtained eternally for the believers that join themselves piously to Brahma, overcome the world, in unity and with constant peace being achieved.

 

(Hindu, Bhagavad Gita (Edwin Arnold tr) chapter 5)

 

“Listen more. With vanquished foeman, or who falls or takes to fight, Casts his weapons, craves for mercy, ancient Bhishma doth not fight, Bhishma doth not fight a rival who submits, fatigued and worn, Bhishma doth not fight the wounded, doth not fight a woman born!” “Back unto their tents the Pandavs turn with Krishna deep and wise, He unto the anxious Arjun thus in solemn whisper cries: ‘Arjun, there is hope of triumph! Hath not truthful Bhishma sworn He will fight no wounded warrior, he will fight no woman born?”’

 

(Hindu, Mababharata (R. Dutt,  abridged tr))

 

2.30 “Self-restraint in actions includes abstention from violence, from falsehoods, from stealing, from sexual engagements, and from acceptance of gifts.”

2.35 “When one is confirmed in non-violence, hostility ceases in his presence.” And, peace reigns supreme.

 

(Hindu, The Yoga Sutras of Patanjali )

 

“Krishna uttered words of wisdom pregnant with his peaceful thought, For in peace and not by bloodshed,” “Yield to Krishna’s words of wisdom, for Thy weal he nobly strives, Yield and save thy friends and kinsmen, save.”

 

(Hindu, Mababharata (R. Dutt, abridged tr))

 

“May union and peace be ours.” Peace earned through a united world.

 

(Hindu, Vedas, Yajur Veda – Kanda VII)

 

“Vainly were Panchala’s Brahmans sent with messages of peace, Vainly urged the Kuru elders that the fatal feud should cease, Proud Duryodhan to his kinsmen would not yield their proper share, Pandu’s sons would not surrender, for they had the will to dare! Fatal war and dire destruction did the mighty gods ordain, Till the kings and armed nations strewed the red and reeking plain, Krishna in his righteous effort sought for wisdom from above, Strove to stop the war of nations and to end the feud in love, And to far Hastina’s palace Krishna went to sue for peace, Raised his voice against the slaughter, begged that strife and feud should cease!”

 

V

KRISHNA’S SPEECH AT HASTINA

 

“Silent sat the listening chieftains in Hastina’s council hall, With the voice of rolling thunder Krishna spake unto them all: ‘Listen, mighty Dhrita-rashtra, Kuru’s great and ancient king, Seek not war and death of kinsmen, word of peace and love I bring! Midst the wide earth’s many nations Bharats in their worth excel, Love and kindness, spotless virtue, in the Kuru-elders dwell, Father of the noble nation, now retired from life’s turmoil, Ill beseems that sin or untruth should thy ancient bosom soil! For thy sons in impious anger seek to do their kinsmen wrong, And withhold the throne and kingdom which by right to them belong, And a danger thus ariseth like the comet’s baleful fire, Slaughtered kinsmen, bleeding nations, soon shall feed its fatal ire! Stretch thy hands, O Kuru monarch! prove thy truth and holy grace, Man of peace! avert the slaughter and preserve thy ancient race. Yet restrain thy fiery children, for thy mandates they obey, I with sweet and soft persuasion Pandu’s truthful sons will sway. Tis thy profit, Kuru monarch! that the fatal feud should cease, Brave Duryodhan, good Yudhishthir, rule in unmolested peace, Pandu’s sons are strong in valour, mighty in their armed hand, INDRA shall not shake thy empire when they guard the Kuru land! Bhishma is thy kingdom’s bulwark, doughty Drona rules the war, Karna matchless with his arrows, Kripa peerless in his car, Let Yudhishthir and stout Bhima by these noble warriors stand, And let helmet-wearing Arjun guard the sacred Kuru land, Who shall then contest thy prowess from the sea to farthest sea, Ruler of a worldwide empire, king of kings and nations free? Sons and grandsons, friends and kinsmen, will surround thee in a ring, And a race of loving heroes guard their ancient hero-king, Dhrita-rashtra’s lofty edicts will proclaim his boundless sway, Nations work his righteous mandates and the kings his will obey! If this concord be rejected and the lust of war prevail, Soon within these ancient chambers will resound the sound of wail, Grant thy children be victorious and the sons of Pandu slain, Dear to thee are Pandu’s children, and their death must cause thee pain! But the Pandavs skilled in warfare are renowned both near and far, And thy race and children’s slaughter will methinks pollute this war, Sons and grandsons, loving princes, thou shalt never see again, Kinsmen brave and car-borne chieftains will bedeck the gory plain! Ponder yet, O ancient monarch! Rulers of each distant State, Nations from the farthest regions gather thick to court their fate, Father of a righteous nation! Save the princes of the land, On the armed and fated nations stretch, old man, thy saving hand! Say the word, and at thy bidding leaders of each hostile race Not the gory field of battle but the festive board will grace, Robed in jewels, decked in garlands, they will quaff the ruddy wine, Greet their foes in mutual kindness, bless thy holy name and thine! Think, O man of many seasons! When good Pandu left this throne, And his helpless loving orphans thou didst cherish as thine own, Twas thy helping steadying fingers taught their infant steps to fame, Twas thy loving gentle accents taught their lips to lisp each name, As thine own they grew and blossomed, dear to thee they yet remain, Take them back unto thy bosom, be a father once again! Unto thee, O Dhrita-rashtra! Pandu’s sons in homage bend, And a loving peaceful message through my willing lips they send: Tell our monarch, more than father, by his sacred stern command We have lived in pathless jungle, wandered far from land to land, True unto our plighted promise, for we ever felt and knew, To his promise Dhrita-rashtra cannot, will net be untrue! Years of anxious toil are over and of woe and bitterness, Years of waiting and of watching, years of danger and distress. Like a dark unending midnight hung on us this age forlorn, Streaks of hope and dawning brightness usher now the radiant morn! Be unto us as a father, loving not inspired by wrath, Be unto us as a teacher, pointing us the righteous path, If perchance astray we wander, thy strong arm shall lead aright, If our feeble bosom fainteth, help us with a father’s might! This, O king! the soft entreaty Pandu’s sons to thee have made, These are words the sons of Pandu unto Kuru’s king have said, Take their love, O gracious monarch! Let thy closing days be fair, Let Duryodhan keep his kingdom, let the Pandavs have their share. Call to mind their noble suffering, for the tale is dark and long Of the outrage they have suffered, of the insult and the wrong, Exiled into Varnavata, destined unto death by flame, For the gods assist the righteous, they with added prowess came, Exiled into Indra-prastha, by their toil and by their might Cleared a forest, built a city, did the rajasuya rite, Cheated of their realm and empire and of all they called their own, In the jungle they have wandered and in Matsya lived unknown, Once more quelling every evil they are stout of heart and hand, Now redeem thy plighted promise and restore their throne and land! Trust me, mighty Dhrita-rashtra! trust me, lords who grace this hall, Krishna pleads for peace and virtue, blessings unto you and all, Slaughter not the armed nations, slaughter not thy kith and kin, Mark not, king, thy closing winters with the bloody stain of sin, Let thy sons and Pandu’s children stand beside thy ancient throne, Cherish peace and cherish virtue, for thy days are almost done!’”

 

(Hindu, Mababharata (R. Dutt,  abridged tr))

 

 

“The primary cause of pure unity of enlightenment that has existed from the beginning of time is compassion, purity, harmony, likeness, permanency and peace.” “Cast away Restlessness and Mental Worry; dwell with mind undisturbed, with heart full of peace,” “There is no Happiness greater than peace.” (The Eightfold Path, Dhammapada and

Buddha, Surangama Sutra)

 

“All fear violence, all are afraid of death. Seeing the similarity to oneself, one should not use violence or have it used. All fear violence, life is dear to all. Seeing the similarity to oneself, one should not use violence or have it used. He who does violence to creatures seeking happiness like himself does not find happiness after death. He who does no violence to creatures seeking happiness like himself does find happiness after death.”

 

(Buddhist, Dhammapada – Sayings of the Buddha 1 (tr. J. Richards))

 

  1. “Occasions of hatred are certainly never settled by hatred. They are settled by freedom from hatred. This is the eternal law.” “15. There is no happiness greater than peace.”

 

(Buddhist, Dhammapada – Sayings of the Buddha 1 (tr. J. Richards))

 

“He who does violence to the peaceful and harmless soon encounters one of ten things – He may experience cruel pain, disaster, physical injury, severe illness, or insanity, or else trouble with the authorities, grave accusation, bereavement, or loss of property, or else destruction of his house by fire, and on the death of his body the fool goes to hell.”

 

(Buddhist, Dhammapada – Sayings of the Buddha 1 (tr. J. Richards))

 

  1. “Pluck out your desire, like one does an autumn lotus with one’s hand. Devote yourself to the path of peace (not war), the nirvana proclaimed by the Blessed One.” 26. “Abandoning violence to all living creatures moving or still, he who neither kills or causes killing – that is what I call a brahmin.”

 

(Buddhist, Dhammapada – Sayings of the Buddha 1 (tr. J. Richards))

 

“There is no happiness greater than peace,” and no greater happiness then peace achieved.

 

(Buddhist, Dhammapada – Sayings of the Buddha 1 (tr. J. Richards))

 

  1. “Better than a thousand meaningless words is one sensible word if hearing it one becomes peaceful. Better than a thousand meaningless verses is one word of verse if hearing it one becomes peaceful. Better than reciting one hundred verses of meaningless words is one poem if hearing it one becomes peaceful.”

 

(Buddhist, Dhammapada – Sayings of the Buddha 2 (tr. J. Richards))

 

“Joyful and faithful in the doctrine of the Buddha, the mendicant finds peace, the joy of ending natural existence.” “The mendicant who lives in friendliness with confidence in the doctrine of the Buddha will find peace, the blessed place where existence ends.” “There is no joy higher than peace.”

 

(Buddhist, Dhammapada – Sayings of the Buddha 2 (tr. J. Richards))

 

“Whoever settles a matter by violence is not just. The wise calmly considers what is right and what is wrong. Whoever guides others by a procedure that is nonviolent and fair is said to be a guardian of truth, wise and just.”

 

(Buddhist, Dhammapada – Sayings of the Buddha 2 (tr. J. Richards))

 

“Bliss and peace there will be on the road which Adam attained,’ ‘My vigilance and praise,’ ‘Go in peace, chosen, pure and guiltless one in whom there is no spot.”’ (Sabeanism, Ginza Rba- chapter 74)

 

“We will pray with Thee the ‘uthras’ prayer and ask of Thee, of the Great (Life, God), a petition for ourselves, for our friends, for our friends’ friends and for those who love the great Family of Life.” “Praise Thee, for amongst them all hatred, Envy and dissensions exist not. The Place which is all portals of radiance, light and glory Praiseth Thee.” Here there is no dissension, violence or disorder; peace reins in this house. (Sabeanism, Ginza Rba- chapters 75 and 76)

 

“May the gate of sin be barred to them and the gate of light be open for them. May they be knit together in the communion of Life in which there is no separation.” “I will come and will fly And will reach the sons of my Name, the sons of my Sign, And the sons of the great Family of Life.” (Sabeanism, Ginza Rba- chapters 34 and 76)

 

“Diffuse Thy light over all who love.” For Thy sake do we love all that liveth, humanity is one in love. (Sabeanism, Ginza Rba- chapter 76)

 

“The Day is approaching when God shall bring the faithful together. In truth no God is there other than Him.”

“May the peace of God be with those who have been guided aright through the power of divine guidance. He is God, the Supreme Ruler, the Sovereign Truth, He Whose help is implored by all.”

 

(The Bab, Selections from the Writings of the Bab, p. 160)

“O PEOPLES of the earth! Verily the resplendent Light of God hath appeared in your midst, invested with this unerring Book, that ye may be guided aright to the ways of peace and, by the leave of God, step out of the darkness into the light and onto this far-extended Path of Truth.”

 

(The Bab, Selections from the Writings of the Bab, p. 60)

 

“Fierce as may seem the onslaught of the forces of darkness that may still afflict this Cause, desperate and prolonged as may be that struggle, severe as may be the disappointments it may still experience, the ascendancy it will eventually obtain will be such as no other Faith has ever in its history achieved. The welding of the communities of East and West into the world-wide Brotherhood of which poets and dreamers have sung, and the promise of which lies at the very core of the Revelation conceived by Bahá’u’lláh; the recognition of His law as the indissoluble bond uniting the peoples and nations of the earth; and the proclamation of the reign of the Most Great Peace, are but a few among the chapters of the glorious tale which the consummation of the Faith of Bahá’u’lláh will unfold.”

 

(Shoghi Effendi, The Dawn-Breakers, p. 667)

 

“In the days of old an instinct for warfare was developed in the struggle with wild animals; this is no longer necessary; nay, rather, co-operation and mutual understanding are seen to produce the greatest welfare of mankind.”

 

(Abdu’l-Baha, Abdu’l-Baha in London, p. 19)

“War shall cease between nations, and by the will of God the Most Great Peace shall come; the world will be seen as a new world, and all men will live as brothers.”

 

(Abdu’l-Baha, Abdu’l-Baha in London, p. 19)

 

In the Bahá’í Faith, the current God founded religion for this day and time, Bahá’u’lláh outlines the process by which this great world peace will be achieved. “Bahá’u’lláh declared the coming of the Most Great Peace. All the nations and peoples will come under the shadow of the Tent of the Great Peace and Harmony — that is to say, by general election a Great Board of Arbitration shall be established, to settle all differences and quarrels between the Powers; so that disputes shall not end in war.” Of note, Bahá’u’lláh proclaimed this message to mankind well over a hundred years ago.

 

(Bahá’í Faith, Abdu’l-Baha, Abdu’l-Baha in London, p. 28)

“Discord will change to accord, dissension to unison. The roots of malevolence will be torn out, the basis of aggression destroyed. The bright rays of union will obliterate the darkness of limitations, and the splendours of heaven will make the human heart to be even as a mine veined richly with the love of God.”

 

(Bahá’í Faith, Abdu’l-Baha, Selections from the Writings of Abdu’l-Baha, p. 19)

 

“As the East and the West are illumined by one sun, so all races, nations, and creeds shall be seen as the servants of the One God. The whole earth is one home, and all peoples, did they but know it, are bathed in the oneness of God’s mercy. God created all. He gives sustenance to all. He guides and trains all under the shadow of his bounty. We must follow the example God Himself gives us, and do away with all disputations and quarrels.”

 

(Bahá’í Faith, Abdu’l-Baha, Abdu’l-Baha in London, p. 38)

 

“When perfect equality shall be established between men and women, peace may be realized for the simple reason that womankind in general will never favor warfare. Women will not be willing to allow those whom they have so tenderly cared for to go to the battlefield.”

 

(Bahá’í Faith, Abdu’l-Baha, The Promulgation of Universal Peace, p. 167)

“Verily, thy Lord is the All-Knowing. His authority embraceth all things. Rest thou assured in the gracious favor of thy Lord. The eye of His loving-kindness shall everlastingly be directed towards thee. The day is approaching when thy agitation will have been transmuted into peace and quiet calm. Thus hath it been decreed in the Wondrous Book.”

 

(Baha’u’llah, Epistle to the Son of the Wolf, p. 149)

 

This is the Day in which God’s most excellent favors have been poured out upon men, the Day in which His most mighty grace hath been infused into all created things. It is incumbent upon all the peoples of the world to reconcile their differences, and, with perfect unity and peace, abide beneath the shadow of the Tree of His care and loving-kindness. It behoveth them to cleave to whatsoever will, in this Day, be conducive to the exaltation of their stations, and to the promotion of their best interests. Happy are those whom the all-glorious Pen was moved to remember,  7  and blessed are those men whose names, by virtue of Our inscrutable decree, We have preferred to conceal.

 

(Baha’u’llah, Gleanings from the Writings of Baha’u’llah, p. 6)

 

Ere long will the state of affairs within thee be changed, and the reins of power fall into the hands of the people. Verily, thy Lord is the All-Knowing. His authority embraceth all things. Rest thou assured in the gracious favor of thy Lord. The eye of His loving-kindness shall everlastingly be directed towards thee. The day is approaching when thy agitation will have been transmuted into peace and quiet calm. Thus hath it been decreed in the wondrous Book.

 

(Baha’u’llah, Gleanings from the Writings of Baha’u’llah, p. 110)

 

The purpose of religion as revealed from the heaven of God’s holy Will is to establish unity and concord amongst the peoples of the world; make it not the cause of dissension and strife. The religion of God and His divine law are the most potent instruments and the surest of all means for the dawning of the light of unity amongst men. The progress  130  of the world, the development of nations, the tranquillity of peoples, and the peace of all who dwell on earth are among the principles and ordinances of God. Religion bestoweth upon man the most precious of all gifts, offereth the cup of prosperity, imparteth eternal life, and showereth imperishable benefits upon mankind. It behoveth the chiefs and rulers of the world, and in particular the Trustees of God’s House of Justice, to endeavour to the utmost of their power to safeguard its position, promote its interests and exalt its station in the eyes of the world. In like manner it is incumbent upon them to enquire into the conditions of their subjects and to acquaint themselves with the affairs and activities of the divers communities in their dominions. We call upon the manifestations of the power of God — the sovereigns and rulers on earth — to bestir themselves and do all in their power that haply they may banish discord from this world and illumine it with the light of concord.

 

(Baha’u’llah, Tablets of Baha’u’llah, p. 129)

 

The Great Being, wishing to reveal the prerequisites of the peace and tranquillity of the world and the advancement of its peoples, hath written: The time must come when the imperative necessity for the holding of a vast, an all-embracing assemblage of men will be universally realized. The rulers and kings of the earth must needs attend it, and, participating in its deliberations, must consider such ways and means as will lay the foundations of the world’s Great Peace amongst men. Such a peace demandeth that the Great Powers should resolve, for the sake of the tranquillity of the peoples of the earth, to be fully reconciled among themselves. Should any king take up arms against another, all should unitedly arise and prevent him. If this be done, the nations of the world will no longer require any armaments, except for the purpose of preserving the security of their realms and of maintaining internal order within their territories. This will ensure the peace and composure of every people, government and nation. We fain would hope that the kings and rulers of the earth, the mirrors of the gracious and almighty name of God, may attain unto this station, and shield mankind from the onslaught of tyranny.

 

(Baha’u’llah, Tablets of Baha’u’llah, p. 164)

At the outset of every endeavour, it is incumbent to look to the end of it. Of all the arts and sciences, set the children to studying those which will result in advantage to man, will ensure his progress and elevate his rank. Thus the noisome odours of lawlessness will be dispelled, and thus  169  through the high endeavours of the nation’s leaders, all will live cradled, secure and in peace.

O my friend! In all circumstances one should seize upon every means which will promote security and tranquillity among the peoples of the world. The Great Being saith: In this glorious Day whatever will purge you from corruption and will lead you towards peace and composure, is indeed the Straight Path.

 

(Baha’u’llah, Tablets of Baha’u’llah, p. 168)

 

The Great Being saith: The man of consummate learning and the sage endowed with penetrating wisdom are the two eyes to the body of mankind. God willing, the earth shall never be deprived of these two greatest gifts. That which hath been set forth and will be revealed in the future is but a token of this Servant’s ardent desire to dedicate Himself to the service of all the kindreds of the earth.

 

O my friend! In all circumstances one should seize upon every means which will promote security and tranquillity among the peoples of the world. The Great Being saith: In this glorious Day whatever will purge you from corruption and will lead you towards peace and composure, is indeed the Straight Path.

 

(Baha’u’llah, Tablets of Baha’u’llah, p. 171)

We desire but the good of the world and the happiness of the nations; yet they deem Us a stirrer up of strife and sedition worthy of bondage and banishment…. That all nations should become one in faith and all men as brothers; that the bonds of affection and unity between the sons of men should be strengthened; that diversity of religion should cease, and differences of race be annulled — what harm is there in this?… Yet so it shall be; these fruitless strifes, these ruinous wars shall pass away, and the ‘Most Great Peace’ shall come…. Yet do We see your kings and rulers lavishing their treasures more freely on means for the destruction of the human race than on that which would conduce to the happiness of mankind…. These strifes and this bloodshed and discord must cease, and all men be as one kindred and one family…. Let not a man glory in this, that he loves his country; let him rather glory in this, that he loves his kind

 

(Baha’u’llah, The Proclamation of Baha’u’llah, p. viii)

 

THE Great Being, wishing to reveal the prerequisites of the peace and tranquillity of the world and the advancement of its peoples, hath written: The time must come when the imperative necessity for the holding of a vast, an all-embracing assemblage of men will be universally realized. The rulers and kings of the earth must needs attend it, and, participating in its deliberations, must consider such ways and means as will lay the foundations of the world’s Great Peace amongst men. Such a peace demandeth that the Great Powers should resolve, for the sake of the tranquillity of the peoples of the earth, to be fully reconciled among themselves. Should any king take up arms against another, all should unitedly arise and prevent him. If this be done, the nations of the world will no longer require any armaments, except for the purpose of preserving the security of their realms and of maintaining internal order within their territories. This will ensure the peace and composure of every people, government and nation. We fain would hope that the kings and rulers of the earth, the mirrors of the gracious and almighty name of God, may attain unto this station, and shield mankind from the onslaught of tyranny…. The day is approaching when all the peoples of the world will have adopted one universal language and one common script. When this is achieved, to whatsoever city a man may journey, it shall be as if he were entering his own home. These things are obligatory and absolutely essential. It is incumbent upon every man of insight  116  and understanding to strive to translate that which hath been written into reality and action…. That one indeed is a man who, today, dedicateth himself to the service of the entire human race. The Great Being saith: Blessed and happy is he that ariseth to promote the best interests of the peoples and kindreds of the earth. In another passage He hath proclaimed: It is not for him to pride himself who loveth his own country, but rather for him who loveth the whole world. The earth is but one country, and mankind its citizens.

 

(Baha’u’llah, The Proclamation of Baha’u’llah, p. 114)

 

Ponder in thine heart. Did ye, notwithstanding your behaviour and the things your hands have wrought, succeed in quenching the fire of God or in putting out the light of His Revelation — a light that hath enveloped with its brightness them that are immersed in the billowing oceans of immortality, and hath attracted the souls of such as truly believe in and uphold His unity? Know ye not that the Hand of God is over your hands, that His Decree transcendeth all your devices, that He is supreme over His servants, that He is equal to His Purpose, that He doth what He wisheth, that He shall not be asked of whatever He willeth, that He ordaineth what He pleaseth, that He is the Most Powerful, the Almighty? If ye believe this to be the truth, wherefore, then, will ye not cease from troubling and be at peace with yourselves?

 

(Baha’u’llah, The Summons of the Lord of Hosts, p. 224)