In the innate nature of things there is no evil—all is good.
This applies even to certain apparently blameworthy attributes and dispositions
which seem inherent in some people, but which are not in reality reprehensible.
For example, you can see in a nursing child, from the beginning of its life,
the signs of greed, of anger, and of ill temper; and so it might be argued that
good and evil are innate in the reality of man, and that this is contrary to
the pure goodness of the innate nature and of creation. The answer is that
greed, which is to demand ever more, is a praiseworthy quality provided that it
is displayed under the right circumstances. Thus, should a person show greed in
acquiring science and knowledge, or in the exercise of compassion,
high-mindedness, and justice, this would be most praiseworthy. And should he
direct his anger and wrath against the bloodthirsty tyrants who are like
ferocious beasts, this too would be most praiseworthy. But should he display
these qualities under other conditions, this would be deserving of blame.
- ‘Abdu’l-Baha (Table talks in Akka, authenticated by ‘Abdu’l-Baha; ‘Some
Answered Questions’ – 2014 revised translation by the Baha’i World Centre)
