The oneness of humanity is a subject that resonates in the hearts of people everywhere today, and many will welcome discussing with you the ideas presented below.

A garden in which flowers of many colors and fragrances grow side by side is pleasing to the eye. And though different, each flower is refreshed by the same rain and receives the warmth of one sun. This is also true of humanity. It is made of many races and colors. But all come from the same God, and all have the same origin. The diversity in the human family should be a source of harmony, as it is in music where different notes blend to make a perfect chord.

Unity is necessary to existence. Love is the very cause of life. In the material world, the elements of all things are held together certain elements in the form of a beautiful flower. But when that attraction is taken away, the flower will decompose and cease to exist. So it is with humanity. Attraction, harmony, and unity are the forces that hold humanity together.

The manifestation of God Baha'u'llah has made a design for the uniting of all the peoples of the world. We should make every effort to draw them into this circle of unity. When we meet people of races, nationalities, religions, and opinions different than our own, we should not allow these differences to become barriers between us. We should think of them as different colored roses growing in the beautiful garden of humanity and be glad to be among them.

The Oneness of Religion.

The oneness of religion is a subject of interest to many, and the following ideals will do justice on numerous occasions.

We must be lovers of light no matter from what lamp it appears. We must be lovers of a rose no matter in what garden it blooms. We must be seekers of truth no matter from what source it comes. Attachment to one lamp can prevent us from appreciating the light when it shines in another. In seeking the truth, we must rid ourselves of preconceived notions and give up our prejudices. If our cup is full of self, there is no room in it for the water of life.

Religion is the light of the world. It guides our steps and opens to us the doors of unending happiness. When we investigate the teachings of the great religions, free from the restrictions of dogmatic beliefs and blind imitation, we come to realize that they rest on the same foundation. They all reveal the knowledge of God. They seek the advancement of the world of humanity.

There are, of course, differences among the social laws and regulations propagated by each religion according to the requirements of time and place. But in their essence, all religions are one. they cultivate faith, knowledge, certitude, justice and piety, high-mindedness, trustworthiness, love of God, and charity. They teach purity, detachment, humility, forbearance, patience, and constancy. These human virtues are renewed in every dispensation.

It is unfortunate that, because of prejudices and blind imitation, many are not able to see the underlying oneness of religion. God's guidance to humanity is truth, and truth has no divisions, it is one. If we investigate the truth independently, setting aside preconceived notions, our search will lead to unity. Religion should unify us, it must establish bonds of love among people. If it becomes the cause of enmity and strife, its absence is preferable.

This is a very important part subject to deliberate in our different groups and how we can weave this ideal into meaningful conversation.

The oneness of humanity and religion is a principle of the Baha'i faith.