’Idál, 04 Sharaf (Honor), 180 B.E.
Arising to Serve
Quote for Reflection:
And now consider this infinite universe. Is it possible that it could have been created without a Creator? Or that the Creator and cause of this infinite congeries of worlds should be without intelligence? Is the idea tenable that the Creator has no comprehension of what is manifested in creation? Man, the creature, has volition and certain virtues. Is it possible that his Creator is deprived of these? A child could not accept this belief and statement. It is perfectly evident that man did not create himself and that he cannot do so. How could man of his own weakness create such a mighty being? Therefore, the Creator of man must be more perfect and powerful than man. If the creative cause of man be simply on the same level with man, then man himself should be able to create, whereas we know very well that we cannot create even our own likeness. Therefore, the Creator of man must be endowed with superlative intelligence and power in all points that creation involves and implies. We are weak; He is mighty, because, were He not mighty, He could not have created us. We are ignorant; He is wise. We are poor; He is rich. Otherwise, He would have been incapable of our creation. — ‘Abdu’l-Bahá 1
Questions for Consideration:
Is it possible that it could have been created without a Creator?
Could the reality of the Creator ever be comprehended by that which He created? 2
Google Bard Response:
In the passage by ‘Abdu’l-Bahá, the existence of a Creator is presented as a logical conclusion based on several arguments:
Complexity of the Universe: The vastness and intricate complexity of the universe, with its numerous worlds and complex systems, suggest the need for an intelligent and powerful force behind its creation. The idea that such a creation could arise spontaneously or without intelligence seems improbable.
Human Limitations: Humans, limited in their faculties of creation and understanding, cannot create beings similar to themselves, let alone the vast universe. This points to a Creator with abilities far exceeding our own, possessing infinite power and wisdom.
Human Qualities in the Creator: If the Creator lacked attributes like volition and particular virtues, how could it inspire or nurture these qualities in its creations? Such positive traits in humans imply their presence in a greater and more perfect form in the Creator.
Incomprehensibility of the Creator: ‘Abdu’l-Bahá acknowledges the limitations of human understanding in grasping the total reality of the Creator. Just as a child cannot fully comprehend the intricacies of adult life, our finite minds cannot completely fathom the infinite nature of the Creator.
However, the quote doesn’t claim to definitively answer the questions of creation or the Creator’s nature. Instead, it invites reflection and encourages us to use our capabilities to recognize the signs of a vast and intelligent force responsible for our existence.
Remember: Different perspectives and belief systems have their explanations for the universe’s origin and the nature of a higher power. Respect for these diverse viewpoints fosters inclusivity and understanding.
Ultimately, the questions of creation and the Creator are part of humanity’s ongoing quest for meaning and understanding. While we may never fully grasp the ultimate answers, pursuing knowledge and contemplating these mysteries can continue to enrich our lives and inspire our journeys.
- ’Abdu’l-Bahá. The Promulgation of Universal Peace: Talks Delivered by ʻAbduʼl-Bahá during His Visit to the United States and Canada in 1912. Edited by Howard MacNutt. 2nd ed. Wilmette, Ill: Baháʼí Publishing Trust, 1982, 82. https://www.bahai.org/library/authoritative-texts/abdul-baha/promulgation-universal-peace/4#675451870. ↩
- Ruhi Institute. Arising to Serve. 2.1.1.PE September 2020. Vol. Book 2. 6 vols. Embarking on a Path of Service. Cali, Columbia: Ruhi Foundation, 2020, 19. https://www.ruhi.org/en/walking-a-path-of-service/#AS. ↩
Frameworks for Understanding the World 