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Some Answered Questions
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Pages 237-238
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65: EXPLANATION OF A VERSE IN THE KITÁB-I-AQDAS
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Question.--It is said in the Kitáb-i-Aqdas "...whoso is
deprived thereof, hath gone astray, though he be the
author of every righteous deed." What is the meaning of
this verse?
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Answer.--This blessed verse means that the foundation
of success and salvation is the knowledge of God, and that
the results of the knowledge of God are the good actions
which are the fruits of faith.
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If man has not this knowledge, he will be separated
from God, and when this separation exists, good actions
have not complete effect. This verse does not mean that
the souls separated from God are equal, whether they
perform good or bad actions. It signifies only that the
foundation is to know God, and the good actions result
from this knowledge. Nevertheless, it is certain that between
the good, the sinners and the wicked who are veiled
from God there is a difference. For the veiled one who has
good principles and character deserves the pardon of God,
while he who is a sinner, and has bad qualities and character,
is deprived of the bounties and blessings of God.
Herein lies the difference.
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Therefore, the blessed verse means that good actions
alone, without the knowledge of God, cannot be the cause
of eternal salvation, everlasting success, and prosperity,
and entrance into the Kingdom of God.
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