69th Chapter
There is a saying among soldiers:
“I would rather not make the first move but prefer act passively like a guest;
I would rather not advance an inch but prefer to withdraw a foot.”
This is called being prepared, but not acting unless necessary;
showing your arms but not using them unless needed;
not treating an enemy like an enemy;
They hold weapons but don’t use them until necessary.
There is no greater misfortune than to belittle others.
It can cause the loss of all my three treasures (loving-kindness, simplicity, and humility) when I belittle others.
Thus, when two troops are equivalent in power, the one with mercy and loving-kindness usually wins.
Implications from the Holy Books
Say: Human utterance is an essence which aspireth to exert its influence and needeth moderation. As to its influence, this is conditional upon refinement which in turn is dependent upon hearts which are detached and pure. As to its moderation, this hath to be combined with tact and wisdom as prescribed in the Holy Scriptures and Tablets. Meditate upon that which hath streamed forth from the heaven of the Will of thy Lord, He Who is the Source of all grace, that thou mayest grasp the intended meaning which is enshrined in the sacred depths of the Holy Writings. —Bahá’u’lláh, Tablet of Wisdom
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