Thursday, August 20, 2009

O John, you shall uphold the scripture, strongly. We endowed him with wisdom, even in his youth. And (we endowed him with) kindness from us and purity, for he was righteous. He honored his parents, and was never a disobedient tyrant. Peace be upon him the day he was born, the day he dies, and the day he is resurrected back to life. (Quran 19: 12-15)

He was given the capacity for wisdom, kindness, and righteousness. In another translation it is wisdom, compassion, and purity.

We are each unique expressions of God. But we all may share in these capacities, and living coherently with these we may find peace.

Wisdom is knowledge applied with compassion and without self-interest. Sounds simple enough.

But knowledge is infinite. Compassion can be treacherous. Avoidance of self-interest is exceedingly difficult.

Dear God open me to your grace, the only path by which these capacities can be claimed.

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