Sunday, July 22, 2007

There Is No Evil !?

To say there is no evil may seem the height of either ignorance or perversion.

Today's quote from Reality needs close attention plus the awareness that there is a difference between qualities and powers people may have and the use to which they put those qualities and powers.

"In creation there is no evil; all is good. Certain qualities and natures innate in some men and apparently blameworthy are not so in reality. For example, from the beginning of his life you can see in a nursing child the signs of greed, of anger and of temper. Then, it may be said, good and evil are innate in the reality of man, and this is contrary to the pure goodness of nature and creation. The answer to this is that greed, which is to ask for something more, is a praiseworthy quality provided that it is used suitably. So if a man is greedy to acquire science and knowledge, or to become compassionate, generous and just, it is most praiseworthy. If he exercises his anger and wrath against the bloodthirsty tyrants who are like ferocious beasts, it is very praiseworthy; but if he does not use these qualities in a right way, they are blameworthy."

‘Abdu’l-Bahá: Some Answered Questions, Chapter 57: The Causes of the Differences in the Characters of Men, p. 215

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