The Best Gift from God: Intellect and the Quest for Peace
The divine blessing of intellect
God's greatest gift to humanity, as outlined by Abdu’l-Baha, is intellect or understanding. This powerful gift, so provocatively detailed by Abdu’l-Baha in his Paris talk in 1911, remains a focal point for understanding humanity's role and potential within the cosmic order. At a time when the world was only beginning to witness the transformative effects of scientific advancements and the imminent dawning of what would be one of the most devastating wars in history, Abdu’l-Baha provided a profound framework for interpreting the value of intellect.
Intellect and the Role of Man
Man alone, among all creatures, possesses the marvellous ability to comprehend and manipulate the natural laws that govern our world. While other beings, such as the sun, stars, oceans, trees, and animals, are bound by the harsh dictates of nature, Abdu’l-Baha highlighted the unique capacity of humanity to control and adapt natural phenomena to its own ends. He cited advancements in transportation, communication, and scientific discovery, all of which were underpinned by our intellect. Man, endowed with this divine gift, has harnessed the power of electricity, utilized solar energy, and even visualized distant celestial bodies – achievements that have reshaped our world beyond recognition.
The Dark Side of Intellect
However, Abdu’l-Baha also warned of the potential pitfalls of intellect. The same power that enables us to build and innovate can also be used to destroy. The development of weaponry, he argued, contradicted the divine commandment "Thou shalt not kill" and the teachings of Christ to "Love one another." The world's destructive wars serve as stark reminders of how we can misuse the gifts bestowed upon us.
Advocating for Peace and Unity
Showcasing both the potential for enlightenment and the dangers of discord, Abdu’l-Baha provided a profound vision for the use of intellect. He exhorted his listeners to promote unity, tranquility, and peace, emphasizing the importance of pursuing knowledge for the greater good. Intellectual pursuits must serve as tools for building, not destroying, and must foster love and concord among all peoples.
Additional Insights: God's Love and Eternal Life
In addition to the gift of intellect, God has bestowed eternal life upon humanity. This eternal life transcends the mortality of the physical body, as mentioned in the Bible: “For the wages of sin is death but the gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord.” (Romans 6:23) This gift is available to all, regardless of their past, through the love and grace of God. Just as intellectual advancement can be both a blessing and a curse, so too can the gift of eternal life be a source of hope and redemption for those who seek it.
God's Love in Action
Love, or AGAPE, is understood as an action rather than an emotion. God's love is evident in the ultimate sacrifice of sending His only son, Jesus Christ, as described in the Bible: "In this was manifested the love of God toward us because that God sent his only begotten Son into the world that we might live through him." (1 John 4:9-10)
Conclusion
The best gift from God is not limited to a single aspect but encompasses intellectual understanding, spiritual life, and divine love. While intellect provides the means for enlightenment and progress, it is the love and gift of eternal life that provide the sustenance and purpose for our existence. By embracing these gifts and using them wisely, humanity can strive for peace and unity, realizing the ideals of a harmonious and peaceful world.