In the world of existence the animal is a captive of nature.
Its actions are according to the exigencies and requirements of nature. It has
no consideration or consciousness of good and evil. It simply follows its
natural instinct and inclination. The Prophets of God have come to show man the
way of righteousness in order that he may not follow his own natural impulse
but govern his action by the light of Their precept and example. According to
Their teachings he should do that which is found to be praiseworthy by the
standard of reason and judgment of intellect, even though it be opposed to his
natural human inclination; and he should not do that which is found to be
unworthy by that same standard, even though it be in the direction of his
natural impulse and desire. Therefore, man must follow and manifest the
attributes of the Merciful.
- ‘Abdu’l-Baha
(Excerpt from a talk given on 21 April 1912 in Washington D.C.;
‘Promulgation of Universal Peace’)
