-giving forces of which are the same as
those of the former vernal seasons although the names are many and
various. This is 1912, last year's was 1911 and so on, but in fundamental
reality no difference is apparent. The sun is one but the dawning-points
of the sun are numerous and changing. The ocean is one body of water but
different parts of it have particular designation, Atlantic, Pacific,
Mediterranean, Antarctic, etc. If we consider the names, there is
differentiation, but the water, the ocean itself is one reality.

Likewise the divine religions of the holy Manifestations of God are in
reality one though in name and nomenclature they differ. Man must be a
lover of the light no matter from what day-spring it may appear. He must
be a lover of the rose no matter in what soil it may be growing. He must
be a seeker of the truth no matter from what source it come. Attachment to
the lantern is not loving the light. Attachment to the earth is not
befitting but enjoyment of the rose which develops from the soil is
worthy. Devotion to the tree is profitless but partaking of the fruit is
beneficial. Luscious fruits no matter upon what tree they grow or where
they may be found must be enjoyed. The word of truth no matter which
tongue utters it must be sanctioned. Absolute verities no matter in what
book they be recorded must be accepted. If we harbor prejudice it will be
the cause of deprivation and ignorance. The strife between religions,
nations and races arises from misunderstanding. If we investigate the
religions to discover the principles underlying their foundations we will
find they agree, for the fundamental reality of them is one and not
multiple. By this means the religionists of the world will reach their
point of unity and reconciliation. They will ascertain the truth that the
purpose of religion is the acquisition of praiseworthy virtues, betterment
of morals, spiritual development of mankind, the real life and divine
bestowals. All the prophets have been the promoters of these principles;
none of them has been the promoter of corruption, vice or evil. They have
summoned mankind to all good. They have united people in the love of God,
invited them to the religions of the unity of mankind and exhorted them to
amity and agreement. For example, we mention Abraham and Moses. By this
mention we do not mean the limitation implied in the mere names but intend
the virtues which these names embody. When we say "Abraham" w