Article February 7, 2005 Issue

IRAQ: FROM CRADLE TO CRUCIBLE

By Elaine Follis

ALL EYES TODAY ARE FOCUSED ON THE nation of Iraq. Once known as Mesopotamia, the land "between the rivers," the cradle of civilization, lies beneath Iraqi sands. Every schoolchild there knows at least a bit about Iraq's historical background and culture. Everyone who follows the news knows of Iraq's strategic significance in contemporary world affairs. Information about Iraq is plentiful; but, given the perennially troubled state of this part of the Middle East, I believe that what's really needed is a fresh perspective to move thought in new directions and to offer help, comfort, and lasting peace.

In one chapter of Science and Health with Key to the Scriptures, titled "Glossary," Mary Baker Eddy discussed Biblical characters and places in terms of the spiritual qualities they express. Included is the major geographical feature of the country of Iraq, the river Euphrates. Her observations correlate with, but move significantly beyond, data drawn from history and current affairs. She discerned the spirit and higher destiny of this region, writing in part that Euphrates represents: "Divine Science encompassing the universe and man; the true idea of God; a type of the glory which is to come; metaphysics taking the place of physics; the reign of righteousness" (p. 585).

Taking this description, point by point from "the glory which is to come" and returning to the first, "Divine Science encompassing the universe and man," can perhaps help elucidate Mary Baker Eddy's concept of Euphrates and at the same time provide a broader context for understanding today's world and Iraq's place in it, thus providing a broader context for prayer for peace.