Article March 23, 1946 Issue

One Language

LUCILE ROOD

In the book of Genesis (chapter 11) we read the story of Babel, which relates that the whole earth spoke a single language until men began to build a tower that would reach to heaven. Then confusion arose among them and their language was confounded so that they could no longer understand each other. As a result, they were dispersed, and their tower remained unfinished.

In other words, when men began to depend upon their own ability to "reach unto heaven," began to turn away from the one God, confusion ensued, as it always must when there are "gods many, and lords many" (I Cor. 8:5). Paul stated the truth, "There is but one God, the Father, of whom are all things, and we in him."

In the Glossary of "Science and Health with Key to the Scriptures," the textbook of Christian Science, Mary Baker Eddy defines the word "Babel" in part (p. 581) as "self-destroying error; a kingdom divided against itself, which cannot stand." The definition goes on to explain that whatever is built on the basis of the five physical senses is fraught with confusion, and its downfall is certain. Throughout her writings our Leader sustains this standpoint that the testimony of the corporeal senses, or mortal mind, is always unreliable and confusing; whereas spiritual sense ever bears testimony to immortal Mind, and is harmonious.

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