A Compilation on Bahá’í Education
by Research Department of the Universal House of Justice
Edition 1, (September 2006)
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CONTENTS
Baha’i Terms of Use
[Frontispiece]
“The newly born babe of that Day excels the wisest and most venerable
men of...”
FROM THE WRITINGS OF BAHÁ’U’LLÁH:
“1: The Prophets and Messengers of God have been sent down for the sole
purpose of...”
“2: We have decreed, O people, that the highest and last end of all
learning...”
“3: Consider ... the revelation of the light of the Name of God, the
Educator....”
“4: Man is the supreme Talisman. Lack of a proper education hath,
however,...”
“5: Bend your minds and wills to the education of the peoples and
kindreds of the...”
“6: We prescribe unto all men that which will lead to the exaltation of
the...”
“7: Unto every father hath been enjoined the instruction of his son
and...”
“8: ...Everyone, whether man or woman, should hand over to a trusted
person a...”
“9: Strain every nerve to acquire both inner and outer perfections, for
the...”
“10: Man is even as steel, the essence of which is hidden: through
admonition...”
“11: There are many things which will, if neglected, be wasted, and
come to...”
“12: It is the bounden duty of parents to rear their children to be
staunch in...”
“13: The fear of God hath ever been the prime factor in the education
of His...”
“14: That which is of paramount importance for the children, that which
must...”
“15: ...Schools must first train the children in the principles of
religion,...”
“16: ...Arts, crafts and sciences uplift the world of being, and are
conducive...”
“17: ...The learned of the day must direct the people to acquire
those...”
“18: It is incumbent upon the children to exert themselves to the
utmost in...”
“19: In the treasuries of the knowledge of God there lieth concealed
a...”
“20: It beseemeth ... the ... officials of the Government to convene a
gathering and...”
“21: Teach ye your children the verses that have been divinely
revealed, that...”
“22: Teach your children that which hath been sent down from the heaven
of...”
“23: At the outset of every endeavour, it is incumbent to look to the
end of...”
“24: As to the children: We have directed that in the beginning they
should be...”
“25: O Ḥusayn! O thou Preceptor!...”
“26: Blessed is that teacher who remaineth faithful to the Covenant of
God, and...”
FROM THE WRITINGS OF ‘ABDU’L-BAHÁ:
“27: O God, O Thou Who hast cast Thy splendour over the luminous
realities of...”
“28: O thou true friend! Read, in the school of God, the lessons of
the...”
“29: Man is in the highest degree of materiality, and at the beginning
of...”
“30: Man is said to be the greatest representative of God, and he is
the Book...”
“31: Close investigation will show that the primary cause of oppression
and...”
“32: The primary, the most urgent requirement is the promotion of
education....”
“33: Observe carefully how education and the arts of civilization bring
honour,....”
“34: But education is of three kinds: material, human, and
spiritual....”
“35: There are some who imagine that an innate sense of human dignity
will...”
“36: As to the differences among human beings and the superiority
or...”
“37: Question.—How many kinds of character has man, and what is the
cause...”
“38: As to the difference between that material civilization now
prevailing,...”
“39: Among the safeguards of the Holy Faith is the training of
children, and...”
“40: The root cause of wrongdoing is ignorance, and we must therefore
hold fast...”
“41: Were there no educator, all souls would remain savage, and were it
not for...”
“42: And among the teachings of Bahá’u’lláh is the promotion of
education....”
“43: There are certain pillars which have been established as the
unshakeable...”
“44: Thou didst write as to the children: From the very beginning,
the...”
“45: My wish is that these children should receive a Bahá’í education,
so...”
“46: Child education is a matter of the utmost importance. The infant,
while...”
“47: O thou who gazest upon the Kingdom of God!...”
“48: We have previously written and sent out a detailed letter
regarding the...”
“49: As to thy question regarding the education of children: It
behoveth thee...”
“50: Exert every effort to acquire the various branches of knowledge
and true...”
“51: O ye two servants at the Holy Threshold!...”
“52: O ye two well-loved handmaids of God! Whatever a man’s tongue
speaketh,...”
“53: O thou steadfast in the Covenant!...”
“54: O true companions!...”
“55: The education and training of children is among the most
meritorious acts...”
“56: Among the greatest of all services that can possibly be rendered
by man to...”
“57: Blessed art thou, since thou art engaged in rendering a service
which will...”
“58: It is the hope of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá that those youthful souls in
the...”
“59: O thou handmaid of God!...”
“60: Make ye inquiries as to a woman teacher. She must be extremely
modest,...”
“61: In thy school, instruct thou God’s children in the customs of the
Kingdom....”
“62: Make every effort to acquire the advanced knowledge of the day,
and strain...”
“63: O thou steadfast in the Covenant!...”
“64: O thou who art steadfast in the Covenant!...”
“65: O thou teacher of the children of the Kingdom!...”
“66: O ye recipients of the favours of God!...”
“67: O ye of high resolve and noble aims!...”
“68: One of the friends hath sent us a letter regarding the school
at...”
“69: The services ye are rendering in support of the Ta’yíd School
merit the...”
“70: What thou hadst written as to the school is a cause for great
rejoicing,...”
“71: Make ye every effort to improve the Tarbíyat School and to develop
order...”
“72: The All-Merciful hath created humankind for the adornment of
this...”
“73: God be praised that ye have succeeded in establishing a school
in...”
“74: The method of instruction which ye have established, beginning
with proofs...”
“75: As to the children: From the age of five their formal education
must...”
“76: Thou didst ask as to the education of children. Those children
who,...”
“77: The subjects to be taught in children’s school are many, and for
lack of...”
“78: As to the organization of the schools: If possible the children
should...”
“79: As to the education of children, exert every effort to further
this; it is...”
“80: The school for girls taketh precedence over the school for boys,
for it is...”
“81: Our hearts rejoiced at thy letter concerning a school for
girls....”
“82: In past centuries the girl children of Persia were deprived of
all...”
“83: In this holy Cause the question of orphans hath the utmost
importance....”
“84: Your letter hath come and hath occasioned the utmost joy, with its
news...”
“85: Thou didst write about the believers’ daughters who attend the
schools of...”
“86: Consider that if the mother is a believer, the children will
become...”
“87: O handmaids of the beauty of Abhá! Your letter hath come, and its
perusal...”
“88: Today it is obligatory for the loved ones of God, and their
imperative...”
“89: O Handmaids of the Lord!...”
“90: ... O maid-servants of the Merciful! It is incumbent upon you to
train...”
“91: Deliver my longings and greetings to the consolation of thine
eye... and...”
“92: ...O dear one of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá! Be the son of thy father and be
the...”
“93: O ye dear children!...”
“94: It is incumbent upon the youth to walk in the footsteps of
Hakím...”
“95: The Sunday school for the children in which the Tablets and
Teachings of...”
“96: O ye children of the the Kingdom:...”
“97: O young trees and plants, matchless and tender, that grow in the
meadows...”
FROM THE WRITINGS OF SHOGHI EFFENDI AND LETTERS WRITTEN ON HIS BEHALF:
“98: For the members of the Children’s Educational Work Committee ...
I...”
“99: They must promote by every means in their power the material as
well as...”
“100: As to the spiritual activities of the “Children of the Kingdom”
in...”
“101: A basic and vital requirement of these days is the matter of
educating the...”
“102: The “Magazine of the Children of the Kingdom”, the latest issue
of which I...”
“103: ‘Abdu’l-Bahá has always attached very great importance to the
education of...”
“104: In connection with the question that you had asked as to whether
you...”
“105: Among the sacred obligations devolving upon the Spiritual
Assemblies is...”
“106: Shoghi Effendi was very interested to hear of the plans you are
making for...”
“107: We had heard through various channels the wonderful way your
children had...”
“108: In philanthropic enterprises and acts of charity, in promotion of
the...”
“109: Your short but impressive letter addressed to Shoghi Effendi was
received....”
“110: We hope that before long the Bahá’ís will even afford to have
schools that....”
“111: He is very glad to know that you attach importance to the
training of the...”
“112: He was deeply gratified to hear that the friends are attaching
such a...”
“113: Shoghi Effendi wishes you particularly to give all your attention
to the...”
“114: The Bahá’í Faith ... advocates compulsory education...”
“115: He was deeply gratified to learn that your material conditions
are improving...”
“116: Shoghi Effendi was deeply saddened to learn from your letter...
of the...”
“117: The Guardian sees no objection that reference be made to the fact
that the...”
“118: As regards your plans: the Guardian fully approves indeed of your
view...”
“119: The Guardian wishes me to assure you, in particular, of his
supplications...”
“120: With regard to your activities in connection with the training
and...”
“121: You have asked him for detailed information concerning the
Bahá’í...”
“122: With regard to the statement attributed to ‘Abdu’l-Bahá and which
you...”
“123: The task of bringing up a Bahá’í child, as emphasized time and
again in...”
“124: With regard to your little daughter ...; he is truly rejoiced
and...”
“125: With reference to the question of the training of children: given
the...”
“126: The question of the training and education of children in case
one of the...”
“127: The Guardian was delighted to hear of your youth group. The
children who...”
“128: These Bahá’í children are of such great importance to the future.
They...”
“129: ...The Guardian feels that it would be better for either the
mothers of...”
“130: You Bahá’í children and young people have both great privileges
and...”
“131: The Guardian, in his remarks to ... about parents’ and
children’s, wives’...”
“132: Regarding your question about children fighting: the statement of
the...”
“133: You ask him about the fear of God: perhaps the friends do not
realize...”
“134: He is sorry to hear your little boy is not developing
satisfactorily;...”
“135: Regarding the questions you asked him: there is no objection to
children...”
“136: In regard to your question: he feels this is a matter for you and
your...”
“137: Any Bahá’í can give to the Cause’s Funds, adult or child. No
statement...”
“138: Just because you are children does not mean you cannot serve the
Faith,...”
“139: The general principle ... is that a request for excuse from
School sessions on...”
“140: The beloved Guardian was greatly delighted to learn of the
success of the...”
“141: The Guardian will pray for the spiritual development of your dear
son. On...”
“142: The Guardian is happy to see you are teaching the children, as a
firm...”
“143: In explaining the fear of God to children, there is no objection
to...”
“144: Individual Bahá’ís may press for getting religion taught in the
public...”
SUPPLEMENT: EXTRACTS FROM THE TALKS OF ‘ABDU’L-BAHÁ:
“145: Among these children many blessed souls will arise, if they be
trained...”
“146: Educate the children in their infancy in such a way that they
may become...”
“147: The art of music is divine and effective. It is the food of
the soul and...”
“148: If a pupil is told that his intelligence is less than his
fellow pupils, it is...”
“149: ...According to the teachings of Bahá’u’lláh the family, being
a human ,...”
“150: He promulgated the adoption of the same course of education
for man and...”
“151: The child must not be oppressed or censured because it is
undeveloped; it must...”
“152: Bahá’u’lláh has announced that inasmuch as ignorance and lack
of...”
“153: The education of each child is compulsory.... In addition to
this wide-spread...”
[FRONTISPIECE]
“The newly born babe of that Day excels the wisest and most venerable men
of...”
The newly born babe of that Day excels the wisest and most venerable men
of this time, and the lowliest and most unlearned of that period shall
surpass in understanding the most erudite and accomplished divines of this
age....
(The Báb, quoted in “The Dawn-Breakers: Nabíl’s Narrative of the Early
Days of the Bahá’í Revelation”, trans. and ed. Shoghi Effendi. (London:
Bahá’í Publishing Trust, 1975), p. 65)
FROM THE WRITINGS OF BAHÁ’U’LLÁH:
“1: The Prophets and Messengers of God have been sent down for the sole
purpose of...”
The Prophets and Messengers of God have been sent down for the sole
purpose of guiding mankind to the straight Path of Truth. The purpose
underlying their revelation hath been to educate all men, that they may,
at the hour of death, ascend, in the utmost purity and sanctity and with
absolute detachment, to the throne of the Most High....
(“Gleanings from the Writings of Bahá’u’lláh”, rev. ed. (Wilmette: Bahá’í
Publishing Trust, 1984), Sec. 81, pp. 156–7) [1]
“2: We have decreed, O people, that the highest and last end of all
learning...”
We have decreed, O people, that the highest and last end of all learning
be the recognition of Him Who is the Object of all knowledge...
(“Gleanings from the Writings of Bahá’u’lláh”, Sec. 98, p. 199) [2]
“3: Consider ... the revelation of the light of the Name of God, the
Educator....”
Consider ... the revelation of the light of the Name of God, the Educator.
Behold, how in all things the evidences of such a revelation are manifest,
how the betterment of all beings dependeth upon it. This education is of
two kinds. The one is universal. Its influence pervadeth all things and
sustaineth them. It is for this reason that God hath assumed the title,
“Lord of all worlds”. The other is confined to them that have come under
the shadow of this Name, and sought the shelter of this most mighty
Revelation. They, however, that have failed to seek this shelter, have
deprived themselves of this privilege, and are powerless to benefit from
the spiritual sustenance that hath been sent down through the heavenly
grace of this Most Great Name. How great the gulf fixed between the one
and the other!...
(“Gleanings from the Writings of Bahá’u’lláh”, Sec. 93, pp. 189–90) [3]
“4: Man is the supreme Talisman. Lack of a proper education hath,
however,...”
Man is the supreme Talisman. Lack of a proper education hath, however,
deprived him of that which he doth inherently possess. Through a word
proceeding out of the mouth of God he was called into being; by one word
more he was guided to recognize the Source of his education; by yet
another word his station and destiny were safeguarded. The Great Being
saith: Regard man as a mine rich in gems of inestimable value. Education
can, alone, cause it to reveal its treasures, and enable mankind to
benefit therefrom....
(“Gleanings from the Writings of Bahá’u’lláh”, Sec.122, pp. 259–60) [4]
“5: Bend your minds and wills to the education of the peoples and kindreds
of the...”
Bend your minds and wills to the education of the peoples and kindreds of
the earth, that haply the dissensions that divide it may, through the
power of the Most Great Name, be blotted out from its face, and all
mankind become the upholders of one Order, and the inhabitants of one
City....
(“Gleanings from the Writings of Bahá’u’lláh”, Sec. 154, pp. 333–4) [5]
“6: We prescribe unto all men that which will lead to the exaltation of
the...”
We prescribe unto all men that which will lead to the exaltation of the
Word of God amongst His servants, and likewise, to the advancement of the
world of being and the uplift of souls. To this end, the greatest means is
education of the child. To this must each and all hold fast. We have
verily laid this charge upon you in manifold Tablets as well as in My Most
Holy Book. Well is it with him who deferreth thereto.
We ask of God that He will assist each and every one to obey this
inescapable command that hath appeared and been caused to descend through
the Pen of the Ancient of Days.
(From a Tablet—translated from the Persian) [6]
“7: Unto every father hath been enjoined the instruction of his son
and...”
Unto every father hath been enjoined the instruction of his son and
daughter in the art of reading and writing and in all that hath been laid
down in the Holy Tablet. He that putteth away that which is commanded unto
him, the Trustees are then to take from him that which is required for
their instruction, if he be wealthy, and if not the matter devolveth upon
the House of Justice. Verily, have We made it a shelter for the poor and
needy. He that bringeth up his son or the son of another, it is as though
he hath brought up a son of Mine; upon him rest My Glory, My loving
kindness, My Mercy, that have compassed the world.
(“A Synopsis and Codification of the Kitáb-i-Aqdas, the Most Holy Book of
Bahá’u’lláh”, 1st ed. (Haifa: Bahá’í World Centre, 1973), pp. 15–16) [7]
“8: ...Everyone, whether man or woman, should hand over to a trusted
person a...”
...Everyone, whether man or woman, should hand over to a trusted person a
portion of what he or she earneth through trade, agriculture or other
occupation, for training and education of children, to be spent for this
purpose with the knowledge of the Trustees of the House of Justice.
(“Tablets of Bahá’u’lláh Revealed after the Kitáb-i-Aqdas” [rev. ed.],
(Haifa: Bahá’í World Centre, 1982), p.90) [8]
“9: Strain every nerve to acquire both inner and outer perfections, for
the...”
Strain every nerve to acquire both inner and outer perfections, for the
fruit of the human tree hath ever been and will ever be perfections both
within and without. It is not desirable that a man be left without
knowledge or skills, for he is then but a barren tree. Then, so much as
capacity and capability allow, ye needs must deck the tree of being with
fruits such as knowledge, wisdom, spiritual perception and eloquent
speech.
(From a Tablet—translated from the Persian) [9]
“10: Man is even as steel, the essence of which is hidden: through
admonition...”
Man is even as steel, the essence of which is hidden: through admonition
and explanation, good counsel and education, that essence will be brought
to light. If, however, he be allowed to remain in his original condition,
the corrosion of lusts and appetites will effectively destroy him.
(From a Tablet—translated from the Persian) [10]
“11: There are many things which will, if neglected, be wasted, and come
to...”
There are many things which will, if neglected, be wasted, and come to
nothing. How often in this world do we see a child who has lost his
parents and who, unless attention be devoted to his education and
training, can produce no fruit. And better off dead than alive is he who
produceth no fruit.
(From a Tablet—translated from the persian) [11]
“12: It is the bounden duty of parents to rear their children to be
staunch in...”
It is the bounden duty of parents to rear their children to be staunch in
faith, the reason being that a child who removeth himself from the
religion of God will not act in such a way as to win the good pleasure of
his parents and his Lord. For every praiseworthy deed is born out of the
light of religion, and lacking this supreme bestowal the child will not
turn away from any evil, nor will he draw nigh unto any good.
(From a Tablet—translated from the Persian) [12]
“13: The fear of God hath ever been the prime factor in the education of
His...”
The fear of God hath ever been the prime factor in the education of His
creatures. Well is it with them that have attained thereunto!
(“Epistle to the Son of the Wolf”, rev. ed. (Wilmette: Bahá’í Publishing
Trust, 1979), p. 27) [13]
“14: That which is of paramount importance for the children, that which
must...”
That which is of paramount importance for the children, that which must
precede all else, is to teach them the oneness of God and the laws of God.
For lacking this, the fear of God cannot be inculcated, and lacking the
fear of God an infinity of odious and abominable actions will spring up,
and sentiments will be uttered that transgress all bounds...
The parents must exert every effort to rear their offspring to be
religious, for should the children not attain this greatest of adornments,
they will not obey their parents, which in a certain sense means that they
will not obey God. Indeed, such children will show no consideration to
anyone, and will do exactly as they please.
(From a Tablet—translated from the Persian) [14]
“15: ...Schools must first train the children in the principles of
religion,...”
...Schools must first train the children in the principles of religion, so
that the Promise and the Threat recorded in the Books of God may prevent
them from the things forbidden and adorn them with the mantle of the
commandments; but this in such a measure that it may not injure the
children by resulting in ignorant fanaticism and bigotry.
(“Tablets of Bahá’u’lláh Revealed after the Kitáb-i-Aqdas”, p. 68) [15]
“16: ...Arts, crafts and sciences uplift the world of being, and are
conducive...”
...Arts, crafts and sciences uplift the world of being, and are conducive
to its exaltation. Knowledge is as wings to man’s life, and a ladder for
his ascent. Its acquisition is incumbent upon everyone. The knowledge of
such sciences, however, should be acquired as can profit the peoples of
the earth, and not those which begin with words and end with words....
In truth, knowledge is a veritable treasure for man, and a source of
glory, of bounty, of joy, of exaltation, of cheer and gladness unto him.
Happy the man that cleaveth unto it, and woe betide the heedless.
(“Epistle to the Son of the Wolf”, pp. 26–27) [16]
“17: ...The learned of the day must direct the people to acquire those...”
...The learned of the day must direct the people to acquire those branches
of knowledge which are of use, that both the learned themselves and the
generality of mankind may derive benefits therefrom. Such academic
pursuits as begin and end in words alone have never been and will never be
of any worth. The majority of Persia’s learned doctors devote all their
lives to the study of a philosophy the ultimate yield of which is nothing
but words.
(“Tablets of Bahá’u’lláh Revealed after the Kitáb-i-Aqdas”, P. 169) [17]
“18: It is incumbent upon the children to exert themselves to the utmost
in...”
It is incumbent upon the children to exert themselves to the utmost in
acquiring the art of reading and writing.... Writing skills that will
provide for urgent needs will be enough for some; and then it is better
and more fitting that they should spend their time in studying those
branches of knowledge which are of use.
As for what the Supreme Pen hath previously set down, the reason is that
in every art and skill, God loveth the highest perfection.
(From a Tablet—translated from the Persian) [18]
“19: In the treasuries of the knowledge of God there lieth concealed a...”
In the treasuries of the knowledge of God there lieth concealed a
knowledge which, when applied, will largely, though not wholly, eliminate
fear. This knowledge, however, should be taught from childhood, as it will
greatly aid in its elimination....(1)
(“Epistle to the Son of the Wolf”, p. 32) [19]
“20: It beseemeth ... the ... officials of the Government to convene a
gathering and...”
It beseemeth ... the ... officials of the Government to convene a
gathering and choose one of the divers languages, and likewise one of the
existing scripts, or else to create a new language and a new scripts or
else to create a new language and a new script to be taught children in
schools throughout the world. They would, in this way, be acquiring only
two languages, one their own native tongue, the other the language in
which all the peoples of the world would converse. Were men to take fast
hold on that which hath been mentioned, the whole earth would come to be
regarded as one country, and the people would be relieved and freed from
the necessity of acquiring and teaching different languages....
(“Epistle to the Son of the Wolf”, p. 138) [20]
“21: Teach ye your children the verses that have been divinely revealed,
that...”
Teach ye your children the verses that have been divinely revealed, that
they may recite them in most melodious voices. This is what hath been set
down in His mighty Book.
(From a Tablet—translated from the Arabic) [21]
“22: Teach your children that which hath been sent down from the heaven
of...”
Teach your children that which hath been sent down from the heaven of
majesty and power that they may recite the Tablets of the Merciful in the
halls of the Ma_sh_riqu’l-A_dh_kárs in most melodious tones....
(“Kitáb-i-Aqdas”—provisional translation from the Arabic) [22]
“23: At the outset of every endeavour, it is incumbent to look to the end
of...”
At the outset of every endeavour, it is incumbent to look to the end of
it. Of all the arts and sciences, set the children to studying those which
will result in advantage to man, will ensure his progress and elevate his
rank. Thus the noisome odours of lawlessness will be dispelled, and thus
through the high endeavours of the nation’s leaders, all will live
cradled, secure and in peace.
...
The Great Being saith: The man of consummate learning and the sage endowed
with penetrating wisdom are the two eyes to the body of mankind. God
willing, the earth shall never be deprived of these two greatest gifts....
(“Tablets of Bahá’u’lláh Revealed after the Kitáb-i-Aqdas”, pp. 168–71)
[23]
“24: As to the children: We have directed that in the beginning they
should be...”
As to the children: We have directed that in the beginning they should be
trained in the observances and laws of religion; and thereafter, in such
branches of knowledge as are of benefit, and in commercial pursuits that
are distinguished for integrity, and in deeds that will further the
victory of God’s Cause or will attract some outcome which will draw the
believer closer to his Lord.
We beg of God to assist the children of His loved ones and adorn them with
wisdom, good conduct, integrity and righteousness.
He, verily, is the Forgiving, the Clement.
(From a Tablet—translated from the Persian and Arabic) [24]
“25: O Ḥusayn! O thou Preceptor!...”
O Ḥusayn! O thou Preceptor!
From His Most Great Prison, the countenance of the Ancient of Days is
turned towards thee, and He teacheth thee that which will draw thee nigh
unto God, the Lord of mankind.
Blessed is that teacher who shall arise to instruct the children, and to
guide the people into the pathways of God, the Bestower, the Well-Beloved.
(From a Tablet—translated from the Arabic) [25]
“26: Blessed is that teacher who remaineth faithful to the Covenant of
God, and...”
Blessed is that teacher who remaineth faithful to the Covenant of God, and
occupieth himself with the education of children. For him hath the Supreme
Pen inscribed that reward which is revealed in the Most Holy Book.
Blessed, blessed is he!
(From a Tablet—translated from the Persian) [26]
FROM THE WRITINGS OF ‘ABDU’L-BAHÁ:
“27: O God, O Thou Who hast cast Thy splendour over the luminous realities
of...”
O God, O Thou Who hast cast Thy splendour over the luminous realities of
men, shedding upon them the resplendent lights of knowledge and guidance,
and hast chosen them out of all created things for this supernal grace,
and hast caused them to encompass all things, to understand their inmost
essence, and to disclose their mysteries, bringing them forth out of
darkness into the visible world! “He verily showeth His special mercy to
whomsoever He will.”(2)
O Lord, help Thou Thy loved ones to acquire knowledge and the sciences and
arts, and to unravel the secrets that are treasured up in the inmost
reality of all created beings. Make them to hear the hidden truths that
are written and embedded in the heart of all that is. Make them to be
ensigns of guidance amongst all creatures, and piercing rays of the mind
shedding forth their light in this, the “first life”.(3) Make them to be
leaders unto Thee, guides unto Thy path, runners urging men on to Thy
Kingdom.
Thou verily art the Powerful, the Protector, the Potent, the Defender, the
Mighty, the Most Generous.
O Company of God! To each created thing, the Ancient Sovereignty hath
portioned out its own perfection, its particular virtue and special
excellence, so that each in its degree may become a symbol denoting the
sublimity of the true Educator of humankind, and that each, even as a
crystalline mirror, may tell of the grace and splendour of the Sun of
Truth.
And from amongst all creatures He hath singled out man, to grant him His
most wondrous gift, and hath made him to attain the bounties of the
Company on High. That most precious of gifts is attainment unto His
unfailing guidance, that the inner reality of humankind should become as a
niche to hold this lamp; and when the scattering splendours of this light
do beat against the bright glass of the heart, the heart’s purity maketh
the beams to blaze out even stronger than before, and to shine in glory on
the minds and souls of men.
The attainment of the most great guidance is dependent upon knowledge and
wisdom, and on being informed as to the mysteries of the Holy Words.
Wherefore must the loved ones of God, be they young or old, be they men or
women, each one according to his capabilities, strive to acquire the
various branches of knowledge, and to increase his understanding of the
mysteries of the Holy Books, and his skill in marshalling the divine
proofs and evidences.
The eminent Sadru’s-Sudur, who hath verily attained a most exalted station
in the Retreats of Bliss, inaugurated the teaching meeting. He was the
first blessed soul to lay the foundation of this momentous institution.
God be praised, during the course of his life he educated persons who
today are strong and eloquent advocates of the Lord God, disciples who are
indeed pure and spiritual descendants of him who was so close to the Holy
Threshold. After his passing, certain blessed individuals took steps to
perpetuate his teaching work, and when He learned of it, this Captive’s
heart rejoiced.
At this time, likewise, I most urgently request the friends of God to make
every effort, as much as lieth within their competence, along these lines.
The harder they strive to widen the scope of their knowledge, the better
and more gratifying will be the result. Let the loved ones of God, whether
young or old, whether male or female, each according to his capabilities,
bestir themselves and spare no efforts to acquire the various current
branches of knowledge, both spiritual and secular, and of the arts.
Whensoever they gather in their meetings let their conversation be
confined to learned subjects and to information on the knowledge of the
day.
If they do thus, they will flood the world with the Manifest Light, and
change this dusty earth into gardens of the Realm of Glory.
(From a Tablet—translated from the Arabic) [27]
“28: O thou true friend! Read, in the school of God, the lessons of
the...”
O thou true friend! Read, in the school of God, the lessons of the spirit,
and learn from love’s Teacher the innermost truths. Seek out the secrets
of Heaven, and tell of the overflowing grace and favour of God.
Although to acquire the sciences and arts is the greatest glory of
mankind, this is so only on condition that man’s river floweth into the
mighty Sea, and draweth from God’s ancient source His inspiration. When
this cometh to pass, then every teacher is as a shoreless ocean, every
pupil a prodigal fountain of knowledge. If, then, the pursuit of knowledge
leadeth to the beauty of Him Who is the object of all knowledge, how
excellent that goal; but if not, a mere drop will perhaps shut a man off
from flooding grace, for with learning cometh arrogance and pride, and it
bringeth on error and indifference to God.
The sciences of today are bridges to reality; if then they lead not to
reality, naught remains but fruitless illusion. By the one true God! If
learning be not a means of access to Him, the Most Manifest, it is nothing
but evident loss.
It is incumbent upon thee to acquire the various branches of knowledge,
and to turn thy face toward the beauty of the Manifest Beauty, that thou
mayest be a sign of saving guidance amongst the peoples of the world, and
a focal centre of understanding in this sphere from which the wise and
their wisdom are shut out, except for whoso setteth foot in the Kingdom of
Lights and becometh informed of the veiled and hidden mystery, the
well-guarded secret.
(“Selections from the Writings of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá” [rev. ed.], (Haifa: Bahá’í
World Centre, 1982), Sec. 72, p. 110) [28]
“29: Man is in the highest degree of materiality, and at the beginning
of...”
Man is in the highest degree of materiality, and at the beginning of
spirituality—that is to say, he is the end of imperfection and the
beginning of perfection. He is at the last degree of darkness, and at the
beginning of light; that is why it has been said that the condition of man
is the end of the night and the beginning of day, meaning that he is the
sum of all the degrees of imperfection, and that he possesses the degrees
of perfection. He has the animal side as well as the angelic side, and the
aim of an educator is to so train human souls that their angelic aspect
may overcome their animal side....
(“Some Answered Questions”, rev. ed. (Wilmette: Bahá’í Publishing Trust,
1985), pp. 235) [29]
“30: Man is said to be the greatest representative of God, and he is the
Book...”
Man is said to be the greatest representative of God, and he is the Book
of Creation because all the mysteries of beings exist in him. If he comes
under the shadow of the True Educator and is rightly trained, he becomes
the essence of essences, the light of lights, the spirit of spirits; he
becomes the centre of the divine appearances, the source of spiritual
qualities, the rising-place of heavenly lights, and the receptacle of
divine inspirations. If he is deprived of this education, he becomes the
manifestation of satanic qualities, the sum of animal vices, and the
source of all dark conditions.
The reason of the mission of the Prophets is to educate men, so that this
piece of coal may become a diamond, and this fruitless tree may be
engrafted and yield the sweetest, most delicious fruits. When man reaches
the noblest state in the world of humanity, then he can make further
progress in the conditions of perfection, but not in state; for such
states are limited, but the divine perfections are endless.
(“Some Answered Questions”, pp. 236–37) [30]
“31: Close investigation will show that the primary cause of oppression
and...”
Close investigation will show that the primary cause of oppression and
injustice, of unrighteousness, irregularity and disorder, is the people’s
lack of religious faith and the fact that they are uneducated. When, for
example, the people are genuinely religious and are literate and
well-schooled, and a difficulty presents itself, they can apply to the
local authorities; if they do not meet with justice and secure their
rights and if they see that the conduct of the local government is
incompatible with the Divine good pleasure and the king’s justice, they
can then take their case to higher courts and describe the deviation of
the local administration from the spiritual law. Those courts can then
send for the local records of the case and in this way justice will be
done. At present, however, because of their inadequate schooling, most of
the population lack even that vocabulary to explain what they want.
(“The Secret of Divine Civilization”, 2nd ed. (Wilmette: Bahá’í Publishing
Trust, 1983), p. 18) [31]
“32: The primary, the most urgent requirement is the promotion of
education....”
The primary, the most urgent requirement is the promotion of education. It
is inconceivable that any nation should achieve prosperity and success
unless this paramount, this fundamental concern is carried forward. The
principal reason for the decline and fall of peoples is ignorance. Today
the mass of the people are uniformed even as to ordinary affairs, how much
less do they grasp the core of the important problems and complex needs of
the time.
(“The Secret of Divine Civilization”, p. 109) [32]
“33: Observe carefully how education and the arts of civilization bring
honour,....”
Observe carefully how education and the arts of civilization bring honour,
prosperity, independence and freedom to a government and its people.
(“The Secret of Divine Civilization”, p. 111) [33]
“34: But education is of three kinds: material, human, and spiritual....”
But education is of three kinds: material, human, and spiritual. Material
education is concerned with the progress and development of the body,
through gaining its sustenance, its material comfort and ease. This
education is common to animals and man.
Human education signifies civilization and progress—that is to say,
government, administration, charitable works, trades, arts and
handicrafts, sciences, great inventions and discoveries and elaborate
institutions, which are the activities essential to man as distinguished
from the animal.
Divine education is that of the Kingdom of God: it consists in acquiring
divine perfections, and this is true education; for in this state man
becomes the focus of divine blessings, the manifestation of the words,
“Let Us make man in Our image, and after Our likeness.”(4) This is the
goal of the world of humanity.
Now we need an educator who will be at the same time a material, human,
and spiritual educator, and whose authority will be effective in all
conditions. So if anyone should say, “I possess perfect comprehension and
intelligence, and I have no need of such an educator”, he would be denying
that which is clear and evident, as though a child should say, “I have no
need of education; I will act according to my reason and intelligence, and
so I shall attain the perfections of existence”; or as though the blind
should say, “I am in no need of sight, because many other blind people
exist without difficulty.”
Then it is plain and evident that man needs an educator, and this educator
must be unquestionably and indubitably perfect in all respects and
distinguished above all men. Otherwise, if he should be like the rest of
humanity, he could not be their educator, more particularly because he
must be at the same time their material and human as well as their
spiritual educator—that is to say, he must teach men to organize and carry
out physical matters, and to form a social order in order to establish
cooperation and mutual aid in living so that material affairs may be
organized and regulated for any circumstances that may occur. In the same
way he must establish human education—that is to say, he must educate
intelligence and thought in such a way that they may attain complete
development, so that knowledge and science may increase, and the reality
of things, the mysteries of beings, and the properties of existence may be
discovered; that, day by day, instructions, inventions, and institutions
may be improved; and from things perceptible to the senses conclusions as
to intellectual things may be deduced.
He must also impart spiritual education, so that intelligence and
comprehension may penetrate the metaphysical world, and may receive
benefit from the sanctifying breeze of the Holy Spirit, and may enter into
relationship with the Supreme Concourse. He must so educate the human
reality that it may become the center of the divine appearance, to such a
degree that the attributes and the names of God shall be resplendent in
the mirror of the reality of man, and the holy verse, “We will make man in
Our image and likeness”, shall be realized.(5)
(“Some Answered Questions”, pp. 8–9) [34]
“35: There are some who imagine that an innate sense of human dignity
will...”
There are some who imagine that an innate sense of human dignity will
prevent man from committing evil actions and insure his spiritual and
material perfection. That is, that an individual who is characterized with
natural intelligence, high resolve, and a driving zeal, will, without any
consideration for the severe punishments consequent on evil acts, or for
the great rewards of righteousness, instinctively refrain from inflicting
harm on his fellow men and will hunger and thirst to do good. And yet, if
we ponder the lessons of history it will become evident that this very
sense of honor and dignity is itself one of the bounties deriving from the
instructions of the Prophets of God. We also observe in infants the signs
of aggression and lawlessness, and that if a child is deprived of a
teacher’s instructions his undesirable qualities increase from one moment
to the next. It is therefore clear that the emergence of this natural
sense of human dignity and honor is the result of education. Secondly,
even if we grant for the sake of the argument that instinctive
intelligence and an innate moral quality would prevent wrongdoing, it is
obvious that individuals so characterized are as rare as the philosopher’s
stone. An assumption of this sort cannot be validated by mere words, it
must be supported by the facts. Let us see what power in creation impels
the masses toward righteous aims and deeds!
Aside from this, if that rare individual who does exemplify such a faculty
should also become an embodiment of the fear of God, it is certain that
his strivings toward righteousness would be strongly reinforced.
(“The Secret of Divine Civilization”, pp. 97–8) [35]
“36: As to the differences among human beings and the superiority or...”
As to the differences among human beings and the superiority or
inferiority of some individuals to others, the materialists are of two
schools of thought: one group is of the opinion that these differences and
the superior qualities of some individuals are inborn, and are, as they
would put it, an exigency of nature. According to them, it is obvious that
differences within the species are inherent. For example, there are, in
nature, different kinds of trees; animals, too, are varied in their
nature; even minerals vary naturally among themselves, and you have here a
quarry filled with stones, there a mine of rubies, translucent and richly
red; here a shell with pearl enclosed, there only a bit a clay.
The other school of traditional philosophers holdeth to the view that the
differences among individuals and the varying levels of intellects and
talents derive from education: for with training, a crooked branch can
grow straight, and a barren tree of the desert can be domesticated, it can
be grafted and made to bear fruit, which may be bitter, but with time
turneth sweet. At first, its fruit may be small; but it will grow large
and full of flavour, a delight to the taste.
The strongest proof adduced by the second group is this, that the tribes
of Africa are, generally speaking, ignorant and wild, while the civilized
peoples of America are, in general, possessed of wisdom and understanding,
which proveth that the difference between these two peoples is due to
education and experience. Such are the stated views of the philosophers.
The Manifestations of God, on the other hand, affirm that differences are
demonstrably and indisputably innate, and that “We have caused some of you
to excel others”(6) is a proven and inescapable fact. It is certain that
human beings are, by their very nature, different one from the other.
Observe a small group of children, born of the same parents, attending the
same school, receiving the same education, living on the same diet: some,
becoming well educated, will achieve a high degree of advancement; some
will reach a middle level; and some will not prove educable at all. It is
therefore clear that the disparity among individuals is due to differences
of degree which are innate.
But the Manifestations also consider that training and education
demonstrably exert a tremendous influence. If, for example, a child is
deprived of schooling he will certainly remain ignorant, and his knowledge
will be limited to what he is able to find out for himself; but if he is
brought to a qualified teacher to study the sciences and arts, he will
learn of the discoveries made by thousands of other human beings. Thus
education is a guide to those who have gone astray; it maketh the blind to
see; it bestoweth judgement on the foolish, and a yield of greatness on
the unproductive; it causeth the mute to speak, and turneth the false dawn
into the true morning’s light; through it the tiny seed will become a
towering palm, and the runaway slave, a reigning king.
Thus is it certain that education exerteh an influence, and for this
reason the Manifestation of God, the Well-Springs of His mercy, are raised
up in the world, that through the breaths of holiness They may educate the
human race, and make of the sucking child a strong and valiant man.
Through Them will the outcasts of the earth become the cherished
companions of Heaven, and the portionless receive their due.
(From a Tablet—translated from the Persian) [36]
“37: Question.—How many kinds of character has man, and what is the
cause...”
Question.—How many kinds of character has man, and what is the cause of
the differences and varieties in men?
Answer.—He has the innate character, the inherited character, and the
acquired character which is gained by education.
With regard to the innate character, although the divine creation is
purely good, yet the varieties of natural qualities in man come from the
difference of degree; all are excellent, but they are more or less so,
according to the degree. So all mankind possess intelligence and
capacities, but the intelligence, the capacity, and the worthiness of men
differ. This is evident.
For example, take a number of children of one family, of one place, of one
school, instructed by one teacher, reared on the same food, in the same
climate, with the same clothing, and studying the same lessons—it is
certain that among these children some will be clever in the sciences,
some will be of average ability, and some dull. Hence it is clear that in
the original nature there exists a difference of degree and varieties of
worthiness and capacity. This difference does not imply good or evil but
is simply a difference of degree. One has the highest degree, another the
medium degree, and another the lowest degree. So man exists; the animal,
the plant and the mineral exist also—but the degrees of these four
existences vary. What a difference between the existence of man and of the
animal! Yet both are existences. It is evident that in existence there are
differences of degrees.