One Reality: The Harmony of Science and Religion

Compiled by Bonnie J. Taylor
Introduction by John S. Hatcher

One Reality is a compilation of sacred Baha’i writings on the topic of the unity of science and religion as expressed in the Baha’i faith. The introduction by John S. Hatcher provides context for exploring the writings that follow in the body of the book. Ms. Taylor has arranged the chapters in an order that emphasizes developmental and logical progression in understanding the concepts presented, and the chapters are also sub-divided at times to emphasize individual ideas. The reader is presented with sequential passages that build understanding of the Baha’i perspective, and open understanding of both the concept of unity and the ways we can understand the world around us. Helpful for both personal deepening and understanding for teaching, this book is a valuable addition to any Baha’i bookshelf.

From the book (taken from the Introduction rather than the compilation):

By affirming that there are twin expressions of a single system, one physical and the other metaphysical, this Baha’i concept of a purposeful complimentary relationship affirms that each perspective helps explain the other: “The spiritual world is like unto the phenomenal world. They are the exact counterpart of each other. Whatever objects appear in this world of existence are the outer pictures of the world of heaven” (‘Abdu’l-Baha, The Promulgation of Universal Peace, p.12). As we have noted, this counterpart relationship does not mean these twin dimensions are coequal. The purpose of the physical dimension is to provide us sensible expressions and experiences as the foundation for our comprehension of the divine realm (p.17)

As we have noted, from a Baha’i perspective, there is nothing in existence that does not have something to demonstrate to us about the unseen realm, if we are attentive to what it is we are seeking. For example, as Baha’u’llah observes, “Within every blade of grass are enshrined the mysteries of an inscrutable Wisdom, and upon every rosebush a myriad nightingales pour out, in blissful rapture, their melody” (Gleanings from the Writings of Baha’u’llah, no. 125.9) (p.23)

Find this book at our Bahá’í Center bookstore.