Vital Role of Religion

The Enduring Power of Religion in Our Lives

In history, religion has helped man to develop spiritually and has had a deep effect on the social transformation of societies and the advancement of human civilization. Although humanity has used religion as an excuse to wage war, ‘Abdu’l-Bahá has emphasized that

“… the purpose of religion is peace and concord.”[1]

In another part of the same book, `Abdu’l-Bahá explains that

“At all times and in all ages of the world, religion has been a factor in cementing together the hearts of men and in uniting various and divergent creeds. It is the peace element in religion that blends mankind and makes for unity. Warfare has ever been the cause of separation, disunion and discord.”[2]

Bahá’u’lláh refers to religion as a

“… radiant light and an impregnable stronghold for the protection and welfare of the peoples of the world ….”[3]

He then warns people that if

“… the lamp of religion be obscured, chaos and confusion will ensue, and the lights of fairness and justice, of tranquillity and peace cease to shine.”[4]

'In another Tablet, Bahá’u’lláh explains that

“Religion bestoweth upon man the most precious of all gifts, offereth the cup of prosperity, imparteth eternal life, and showereth imperishable benefits upon mankind.”[5]

The previous quotations from Bahá’u’lláh and ‘Abdu’l-Bahá clearly indicate that religion plays a vital role in the development of human society, and in establishing its peace and tranquillity.