Science may be likened to a mirror wherein the images of the
mysteries of outer phenomena are reflected. It brings forth and exhibits to us
in the arena of knowledge all the product of the past. It links together past
and present. The philosophical conclusions of bygone centuries, the teachings
of the Prophets and wisdom of former sages are crystallized and reproduced in
the scientific advancement of today. Science is the discoverer of the past.
From its premises of past and present we deduce conclusions as to the future.
Science is the governor of nature and its mysteries, the one agency by which
man explores the institutions of material creation. All created things are
captive of nature and subject to its laws. They cannot transgress the control
of these laws in one detail or particular. The infinite starry worlds and
heavenly bodies are nature's obedient subjects. The earth and its myriad
organisms, all minerals, plants and animals are thralls of its dominion. But
man through the exercise of his scientific, intellectual power can rise out of
this condition, can modify, change and control nature according to his own
wishes and uses. Science, so to speak, is the breaker of the laws of nature.
(‘Abdu’l-Baha, from a talk, ‘The Promulgation of Universal Peace: Talks Delivered by 'Abdu'l Baha during His Visit to the United States and Canada in 1912’; compilation ‘Nature’, prepared by the Research Department of the Universal House of Justice)
(‘Abdu’l-Baha, from a talk, ‘The Promulgation of Universal Peace: Talks Delivered by 'Abdu'l Baha during His Visit to the United States and Canada in 1912’; compilation ‘Nature’, prepared by the Research Department of the Universal House of Justice)
