Consider a pearl
which shineth by virtue of its inherent nature.
If it be covered with silk, its lustre and beauty will be
concealed. Likewise, man’s distinction
lieth in the excellence of his conduct and in the pursuit of that which
beseemeth his station, not in childish play and pastimes. Know that thy true adornment consisteth in
the love of God and in thy detachment from all save Him, and not in the
luxuries thou dost possess. Abandon them
unto those who seek after them and turn unto God, He Who causeth the rivers to
flow.
- Baha'u'llah (From Tablet to Pope Pius IX, Suriy-i-Haykal [Tablet of Temple];
‘The Summons of the Lord of Hosts’)
