Oneness of mankind
The principle of the oneness of mankind is the central theme around which all of Bahá'u'lláh’s teachings revolve. He proclaimed that all human beings are "the fruits of one tree and the leaves of one branch." Bahá'u'lláh outlined a vision of unity that extends beyond individual relationships to include the interconnectedness of nations and states, viewing them as members of one human family. A recuring theme in the teachings of the Bahá'í Faith is the concept of "unity in diversity." ʿAbdu'l-Bahá illustrated the beauty of this diversity during His travels in Europe and North America, saying:
Consider the flowers of a garden. Though differing in kind, color, form, and shape, yet, inasmuch as they are refreshed by the waters of one spring, revived by the breath of one wind, invigorated by the rays of one sun, this diversity increaseth their charm, and addeth unto their beauty. How unpleasing to the eye if all the flowers and plants, the leaves and blossoms, the fruits, the branches and the trees of that garden were all of the same shape and color! Diversity of hues, form and shape, enricheth and adorneth the garden, and heighteneth the effect thereof. In like manner, when divers shades of thought, temperament and character, are brought together under the power and influence of one central agency, the beauty and glory of human perfection will be revealed and made manifest. Naught but the celestial potency of the Word of God, which ruleth and transcendeth the realities of all things, is capable of harmonizing the divergent thoughts, sentiments, ideas, and convictions of the children of men.
Bahá'í teachings emphasize the oneness of mankind while simultaneously highlighting the importance of preserving cultural and ideological diversity. Diversity, rather than serving as a barrier to unity, is seen as a source of enrichment and strength. Bahá'u'lláh illustrates this concept by comparing it to the human body, where millions of cells and numerous organs each have unique functions, operating in their own way and at their own pace. Despite their diversity, these functions do not compete but complement each other, and it is this diversity that sustains human life.
This principle of unity is a spiritual truth affirmed by all branches of human knowledge. Disciplines such as anthropology, physiology, and psychology recognize the common origin of humanity, despite the vast diversity in the external aspects of human life. Embracing this truth necessitates the elimination of all forms of prejudice—whether based on race, class, religion, color, gender, or material advancement. It requires discarding any belief that one group of people is inherently better than or superior to another.
Consort with the followers of all religions in a spirit of friendliness and fellowship.
Be united in counsel, be one in thought. Let each morn be better than its eve and each morrow richer than its yesterday. Man’s merit lithe in service and virtue and not in the pageantry of wealth and riches.
