The one true God, exalted be His glory, hath ever regarded,
and will continue to regard, the hearts of men as His own, His exclusive
possession. All else, whether pertaining to land or sea, whether riches or
glory, He hath bequeathed unto the Kings and rulers of the earth. From the
beginning that hath no beginning the ensign proclaiming the words "He
doeth whatsoever He willeth" hath been unfurled in all its splendor before
His Manifestation. What mankind needeth in this day is obedience unto them that
are in authority, and a faithful adherence to the cord of wisdom. The
instruments which are essential to the immediate protection, the security and
assurance of the human race have been entrusted to the hands, and lie in the
grasp, of the governors of human society. This is the wish of God and His
decree.... - Baha'u'llah ('Gleanings from the Writings of Baha'u'llah')
