"In the treasuries of the knowledge of God there lieth concealed a knowledge
which, when applied, will largely, though not wholly, eliminate fear. This
knowledge, however, should be taught from childhood, as it will greatly aid in
its elimination. Whatever decreaseth fear increaseth courage."
Dear Larry,
What I find intriguing about this quote is the admonition that: "This
knowledge, however, should be taught from childhood, as it will greatly aid in
its [fear] elimination." Generally our approach with children is to place the
emphasis on love and unity; on the "Promise" and not the "Threat" as defined in
the following:
"The word of God which the Supreme Pen hath recorded on the eighth leaf of the
Most Exalted Paradise is the following: Schools must first train the children
in the principles of religion, so that the Promise and the Threat recorded in
the Books of God may prevent them from the things forbidden and adorn them with
the mantle of the commandments; but this in such a measure that it may not
injure the children by resulting in ignorant fanaticism and bigotry." (Tablets
of Baha'u'llah, p. 68)
Also, from Epistle to the Son of the Wolf:
"The fear of God hath ever been the prime factor in the education of His
creatures. Well is it with them that have attained thereunto." (Baha'u'llah,
Epistle to the Son of the Wolf, p. 27)
"Verily I say: The fear of God hath ever been a sure defence and a safe
stronghold for all the peoples of the world. It is the chief cause of the
protection of mankind, and the supreme instrument for its preservation. Indeed,
there existeth in man a faculty which deterreth him from, and guardeth him
against, whatever is unworthy and unseemly, and which is known as his sense of
shame. This, however, is confined to but a few; all have not possessed, and do
not possess, it." (Baha'u'llah, Epistle to the Son of the Wolf, p. 27)
and, more:
"In truth, religion is a radiant light and an impregnable stronghold for the
protection and welfare of the peoples of the world, for the fear of God
impelleth man to hold fast to that which is good, and shun all evil. (Tablets
of Baha'u'llah, p. 125)
The essence of wisdom is the fear of God, the dread of His scourge and
punishment, and the apprehension of His justice and decree. (Tablets of
Baha'u'llah, p. 155)
In Four Valleys, Baha'u'llah wrote: "And if he feareth not God, God will make
him to fear all things; whereas all things fear him who feareth God."
(Baha'u'llah, The Four Valleys, p. 57)
Just sharing my thoughts...
lovingly, Sandra
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