Yeah, I know the title is a bit much...but seriously, how much do we know about it? How well do we understand it?
In the Baha'i Writings there are a great number of Quotations that mention this word and try to explain (according to our limited understanding as human beings) its true meaning. Now, I used to think that phrases such as "unity of thought" or "unity of efforts" meant we should all think alike and be OK with the opinions of others. Later on I learnt that "unity of thought" is far more amazing than that. I realized it means that after consulting about a certain issue, the truth comes to light by the clash of opinions and the detachment each person shows towards their own opinion. Now, once a consensus is reached either by unanimity or majority of votes then all members must abide by this decision. If it is carried out with the utmost love and obedience, this is unity of thought. That all are united by one common goal and vision. This is closely linked with unity of efforts. Clearly, no need to explain that further.
Unity unlike uniformity is what brings together all peoples of the world and makes us realize that we actually compliment each other. Not only physically (in beauty of diversity) but also intellectually. The work or a scientist would require the aid of an engineer which would at the same time need the assistance of a teacher and the latter of a health-care practitioner and so on...we are dependent upon each other not only in this regard but also culturally. A culturally diverse world is far more interesting and beautiful than a world dominated by uniformity and one culture has so much to give to the world in regards to traditional knowledge that it cannot be undermined.WE MUST PRESERVE CULTURE. It is our patrimony.
Speaking of which, I have the honor to participate in this year's UN Permanent Forum on Indigenous Issues. I am sure the next post will be related to that.
Until then!