Chapter 4: Youth and Education
1. "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."
(Baháfuflláh:
Baháfí Education, p.5)
2. gMan 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."
(Baháfuflláh:
Gleanings from the Writings of Baháfuflláh,
CXXII, pp. 259-260)
3. " . .
. 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 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 of acquiring divine
imperfections, 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. `@ This
is the goal of the world of humanity.
(eAbdul-Bahá:
Some Answered Questions, p.8)
4.
"Training in morals and good conduct is far more important than book
learning. A child that is cleanly, agreeable, of good character,
well-behaved---even though he be ignorant---is preferable to a child that is
rude, unwashed, ill-natured, and yet deeply versed in all the sciences and
arts. The reason for this is that the child who conducts himself well, even
though he be ignorant, is of benefit to others while an ill-natured, ill-behaved
child is corrupted and harmful to others even though he be learned. If,
however, the child is trained to be both learned and good, the result is light
upon light." (eAbdul-Bahá: Selections
from the Writings of eAbdul-Bahá, pp. 135-136)
5. gThe Cause
is such that we can serve it no matter what our profession may be. The only
necessity is that we be spiritually minded and not be guided by purely material
considerations. We should also not let our studies detain us from deepening our
knowledge of the literature of the Cause."
(Letter
written on behalf of Shoghi Effendi, 11/9/31: Importance
of Deepening, p. 30)
6. gAlthough
to acquire the sciences and arts is the greatest glory of mankind that is so
only on condition that men`s river flow into the mighty sea, and draw from
Godfs ancient source His inspiration. When this cometh to pass then every
teacher is a shoreless ocean, every pupil a prodigal fountain of knowledge. If
then, the pursuit of knowledge lead 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."
(eAbdufl-Bahá:
Selections from the Writings of eAbdul-Bahá,
p. 110)
7.@ gThe source of all learning is the knowledge
of God, exalted be His glory and this cannot be attained save through the
knowledge of His Divine Manifestation.
(Baháfuflláh:
Tablets of Baháfuflláh, p. 156)
8. "All
that the sages and mystics have said or written have never exceeded, nor can
they ever hope to exceed, the limitations to which manfs finite mind hath been
strictly subjected. To whatever heights the mind of the most exalted of men may
soar, however great the depths of which the detached and understanding heart
can penetrate, such mind and heart can never transcend that which is the
creature of their own conceptions and the product of their own thoughts. The
meditations of the profoundest thinker, the devotions of the holiest of saints,
the highest expressions of praise from either human pen or tongue, are but a
reflection of that which hath been created within themselves, through the
revelation of the Lord, their God...Every attempt which, from the beginning
that hath no beginning, hath been made to visualize and know God is limited by
the exigencies of His own creation. . ."
(Baha`u`llah:
Gleanings from the Writings of Baháfuflláh,
CXLVIII, pp. 317-318)
9. gThe 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's
words to the Letters of the Living, Dawnbreakers,
p. 65)
10.
gKnowledge is as wings to manfs 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."
(Baháfuflláh Tablets of Baháfuflláh, pp. 51-52)
11. g 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.
(Baháfuflláh:
Excellence in All Things, pp.
1-2)
12. "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.
gAs
for what the Supreme Pen hath previously set down, the reason is that in every
art and skill. God loveth the highest perfection.h
(Baháfuflláh:
Excellence in All Things, p. 2)
13. "It
is incumbent upon Baháfí children to surpass other children in the acquisition
of sciences and arts, for they have been cradled in the grace of God.
"Whatever
other children learn in a year, let Baháfí children learn in a month. The heart
of eAbdufl-Bahá longeth, in its love, to find that Baháfí young people, each
and all, are known throughout the world for their intellectual attainments.
There is no question but that they will exert all their efforts, their
energies, their sense of pride, to acquire the sciences and arts."
(eAbdufl-Bahá:
Selections from the Writings of eAbdul-Bahá
p. 141)
14. "
There is a power in this Cause ---a mysterious power---far, far, far away from
the ken of men and angels; that invisible power is the cause of all these
outward activities. It moves the hearts. It rends the mountains. It administers
the complicated affairs of the Cause. It inspires the friends. It dashes into a
thousand pieces all the forces of opposition. It creates new spiritual worlds.@This
is the mystery of the Kingdom of Abha!"
(eAbdufl-Bahá:
Power of the Covenant, Part I, l)
15.
"Wherefore, O loved ones of God! Make ye a mighty effort till you
yourselves betoken this advancement and all these confirmations, and become
focal centers of God's blessings, daysprings of the light of His unity,
promoters of the gifts and graces of civilized life. Be ye in that land
vanguards of the perfections of humankind; carry forward the various branches
of knowledge, be active and progressive in the field of inventions and the
arts. Endeavor to rectify the conduct of men, and seek to excel the whole world
in moral character. While the children are yet in their infancy feed them from
the breast of heavenly grace, foster them in the cradle of all excellence, rear
them in the embrace of bounty. Give them the advantage of every useful kind of
knowledge. Let them share in every new and rare and wondrous craft and art.
Bring them up to work and strive, and accustom them to hardship. Teach them to
dedicate their lives to matters of great import, and inspire them to undertake
studies that will benefit mankind."
(eAbdufl-Bahá:
Excellence in All Things, p. 4)
16. "I
hope that while you are studying in this college you may so excel all other
students in the various branches of knowledge taught therein that all of them
may testify that the Baháfí students have another power, are inspired with
another effort, are imbued with a noble ambition, are stimulated by higher
motives and make wider and deeper exertions than others. If you do not surpass
the others, then what distinction will there remain for you? Therefore, you
must strive to be superior to them, so that everyone may bear testimony to this
fact."
"You
must become the shining candles of moral precepts and spiritual ideals and be
the means of illumination of others. Clothe your bodies with the robes of
virtues. Characterize yourselves with the characteristics of the people of
divine morality. Shun all manner of vices as you shun a poisonous snake or a
leper. Let the corps of professors and the students be impressed with the
purity and holiness of your lives so that they may take you as paragons of
worthiness, examples of nobility of nature, observers of the moral laws,
holding in subordination the lower element by the higher spirit, the conquerors
of self and the masters of wholesome, vital forces in all the avenues of life.
Strive always to be at the head of your classes through hard study and true
merit. Be always in a prayerful state and appreciate the value of everything.
Entertain high ideals and stimulate your intellectual and constructive
forces."
@gI hope that through the favor and bounty of
the Blessed Beauty, His Holiness the Báb, and the ineffable blessings which
hallow this holy Shrine, the confirmations of the Kingdom of Abha may encircle
you, and that you may be characterized with the shining qualities and brilliant
attributes of the Baháfí life. May our morality become more defined day by day!
May your faith and assurance be increased day b day! May your attraction to the
Kingdom of Abha be intensified day by day! May your attainment in sciences and
arts become more universal day by day! Perchance, God willing, you may become
perfect and accomplished from every standpoint and be the means of the
enlightenment of Persia."
(From
eAbdufl-Bahá to the students who were visiting the Tomb of the Báb: Star of the West, Vol. 9. pp. 98-l00)
17. "It
is clear that learning is the greatest bestowal of God; that knowledge and the
acquirement thereof is a blessing from Heaven. Thus is it incumbent upon the
friends of God to exert such an effort and strive with such eagerness to
promote divine knowledge, culture and the sciences, that ere long those who are
school children today will become the most erudite of all the fraternity of the
wise. This is a service rendered unto God Himself, and it is one of His
inescapable commandments."
(eAbdufl-Bahá:
Excellence in All Things, p. 8)
18.
"People today indeed do tend to be very superficial in their thinking, and
it would seem as if the educational systems in use are sorely lacking in
ability to produce a mature mind in a person who has reached supposedly adult
life!"
(Letter
written on behalf of Shoghi Effendi, 9/22/48: Lights of
Guidance, p. 169)
19.
"When studying at school or university Baháfí youth will often find
themselves in the unusual and slightly embarrassing position of having a more
profound insight into a subject than their instructors. The Teachings of
Baháfuflláh throw light on so many aspects of human life and knowledge that a
Baháfí must learn. . . to weigh the information that is given to him rather
than to accept it blindly. A Baháfí has the advantage of the Divine Revelation
for this age, which shines like a searchlight on so many problems that baffle
modern thinkers; he must therefore develop the ability to learn everything from
those around him, showing proper humility before his teachers, but always
relating what he hears to the Baháfí teachings, for they will enable him to
sort out the gold from the dross of human error."
(From the
Universal House of Justice to Baháfí Youth in Every Land, 6/10/ 66: Wellspring of Guidance, pp. 95-96)
5.1. Various Possibilities
20. "The
Baháfí community will need men and women of many skills and qualifications;
for, as it grows in size the sphere of its activities in the life of society
will increase and diversify. Let Baháfí youth, therefore consider the best ways
in which they can use and develop their native abilities for the service of
mankind and the Cause of God, whether this be as farmers, teachers, doctors,
artisans, musicians, or anyone of the multitudes of livelihoods that are open
to them."
(From the
Universal House of Justice to Baháfí Youth in Every Land, 6/10/66: Wellspring of Guidance p. 95)
5.2. Necessity of Comprehensive Knowledge
21. "The
first attribute of perfection is learning and the cultural attainments of the
mind, and this eminent station is achieved when the individual combines in
himself a thorough knowledge of those complex and transcendental realities
pertaining to God, of the fundamental truths of Qur'anic political and
religious law, of the contents of the sacred Scriptures of other faiths, and of
those regulations and procedures which would contribute to the progress and
civilization of this distinguished country. He should in addition be informed
as to the laws and principles, the customs, conditions and manners, and the
material and moral virtues characterizing the statecraft of other nations, and
should be well versed in all the useful branches of learning of the day, and
study the historical records of bygone governments and peoples. For if a
learned individual has no knowledge of the sacred Scriptures and the entire
field of divine and natural, science of religious jurisprudence and the arts of
government and the varied learning of the time and the great events of history,
he might prove unequal to an emergency and this is inconsistent with the
necessary qualification of comprehensive knowledge.
(eAbdufl-Bahá:
The Secret of Divine Civilization, pp.
35-36)
22. "
When deciding what course of training to follow, youth can consider acquiring
those skills and professions that will be of benefit in education, rural
development, agriculture, economics, technology, health, radio and in many
other areas of endeavor that are so urgently needed in the developing countries
of the world. You can also devote time in the midst of your studies, or other
activities, to travel teaching or service projects in the Third World."
(Letter from
the Universal House of Justice to European Youth Conference, Innsbruck.)
23.
"Praise be to God that this century is the century of sciences! This cycle
is the cycle of reality! The minds have developed; the thoughts have taken a
wider range of vision; intellects have become keener; emotions have become more
sensitized; inventions have transformed the face of the earth, and this age has
acquired a glorious capability for the majestic revelation of the oneness of
the world of humanity."
(eAbdufl-Bahá:
Lights of Guidance. p. 456)
24. "In
the Baháfí Cause, arts, sciences and all crafts are (counted as) worship. The
man who makes a piece of notepaper to the best of his ability, conscientiously,
concentrating all his forces on perfecting it, is giving praise to God.
Briefly, all effort and exertion put forth by man from the fullness of his
heart is worship, if it is prompted by the highest motives and the will to do
service to humanity. This is worship: to serve mankind and to minister to the
needs of the people. Service is prayer. A physician ministering to the sick,
gently, tenderly, free from prejudice and believing in the solidarity of the
human race is giving praise."
(eAbdufl-Bahá:
Paris Talks, pp. 176-177)
5.6. Arts
25. "All
the wondrous works ye behold in this world have been manifested through the
operation of His supreme and most exalted Will, His wondrous and inflexible
Purpose. Through the mere revelation of the word "Fashioner," issuing
forth from His lips and proclaiming His attribute to mankind, such power is
released as can generate, through successive ages, all the manifold arts which
the hands of men can produce."
(Baháfuflláh:
Gleanings from the Writings of Baháfuflláh,
LXXIV, pp. 141-142)
26.
"Regarding the advice you requested from him concerning what studies you
should specialize in with a view to teaching in the future: He would suggest
either History, Economics or Sociology, as these are fields in which Baháfís
not only take a great interest but also cover subjects which our teachings cast
an entirely new light upon. –71-
Your
knowledge would be of use to the Cause in teaching it in the future, and you
could also perhaps introduce the Baháfí ideas into your lectures as an
educator."
(Letter
written on behalf of Shoghi Effendi, 3/13/44: Unrestrained
as the Wind, pp. 70-71)
27. "The
Guardian feels that a sound knowledge of history, including religious historyAand
also of social and economic subjects, is of great help in teaching the Cause to
intelligent people . . ."@@@
(Letter
written on behalf of Shoghi Effendi, 5/4/46: Unrestrained
as the Wind, p. 65)
28. "
Public speaking is undoubtedly very important for a person who desires to
teach, but this should be learned in schools and classes especially arranged
for such training. We should not permit an inferior presentation of the Cause
to the public for the sole reason that we desire to learn to do it better in
the future. The youth should be encouraged to train themselves in public
speaking while they are still pursuing their studies in schools or colleges."
(Letter
written by Shoghi Effendi to an individual believer, 12/25/31: Unrestrained as the Wind, p. 70)
29. "We
had heard through various channels the wonderful way your children had grown to
speak about the Cause in public. Shoghi Effendi's hope is that they will, the
three of them, become able and devoted speakers on the Cause and subjects akin
to it. To do this properly they will need a firm foundation of scientific and
literary training which fortunately they are obtaining. It is just as important
for the Baháfí young boys and girls to become properly educated in colleges of
high standing as it is to be spiritually developed. The mental as well as the
spiritual side of the Youth has to be developed before he can serve the Cause
efficiently. "
(Letter
written on behalf of Shoghi Effendi to an individual believer, 11/28/26: Unrestrained as the Wind, p. 70)
30.
"Although it is recognized that the contemporary men of learning are
highly qualified in philosophy, arts and crafts, yet were anyone to observe
with a discriminating eye he would readily comprehend that most of this
knowledge hath been acquired from the sages of the past, for it is they who
have laid the foundation of philosophy, reared its structure and reinforced its
pillars. Thus doth the Lord, the Ancient of Days, inform thee. The sages of
aforetime acquired their knowledge from the Prophets, inasmuch as the latter
were the Exponents of divine philosophy and the Revealers of heavenly
mysteries. Men quaffed the crystal, living waters of Their utterance, while
others satisfied themselves with the dregs. Everyone receiveth a portion
according to his measure. Verily He Is the Equitable, the Wise. . . . .
"
The essence and the fundamentals of philosophy have emanated from the Prophets.
That the people differ concerning the inner meanings and mysteries thereof is
to be attributed to the divergence of their views and minds. . .
"Verily,
the philosophers have not denied the Ancient of Days. Most of them passed away
deploring their failure to fathom His mystery, even as some of them have
testified. Verily, thy Lord is the Adviser, the All-Informed... .
"A true philosopher would never deny God nor His evidences,
rather would he acknowledge His glory and overpowering majesty which overshadow
all created things. Verily We love those men of know edge who have brought to
light such things as promote the best interests of humanity, and We aided them
through the potency of Our behest, for well are We able to achieve Our
purpose."
(Baháfuflláh:
Tablets of Baháfuflláh, pp. 144-150)
31.
"Philosophy, as you will study it and later teach it, is certainly not one
of the sciences that begins and ends in words. . .
"As regards to Your own studies: he would advise you not to
devote too much of your time to the abstract side of philosophy, but rather to
approach it from a more historical angle. As to correlating philosophy with the
Baháfí teachings; this is a tremendous work which scholars in the future can
undertake. We must remember that not only are all the teachings not yet
translated into English, but they are not even all collected yet. Many
important Tablets may still come to light which are at present owned
privately."
(Letter
written by Shoghi Effendi to an individual believer, 2/15/47: Unrestrained as the Wind, p. 71)
32. "An
unprecedented, a carefully conceived, efficiently coordinated nation- wide,
campaign, aiming at the proclamation of the Message of Baháfuflláh, through
speeches, articles in the press, and radio broadcasts, should be promptly
initiated and vigorously prosecuted. . ."
(Letter from
Shoghi Effendi to the National Spiritual Assembly of the United States and
Canada: Lights of Guidance, p. 45)
33.
"Other agencies, such as publicity and advertising in the press, the
multiplication of accurate and improved radio scripts, the extension of
teaching projects through regional teaching committees, visual education and
the organization of public meetings, should be fully utilized to capture attention,
win sympathy, and s e cure the active and unreserved support of a steadily
increasing proportion of the population of the various Latin American
republics. .
."
(Shoghi
Effendi: Citadel of Faith, pp. 15-16)
34. "The
Lord hath granted leave to whosoever desireth it that he be instructed
in the divers
tongues of the world that he may deliver the Message of the Cause of God
throughout the East and throughout the West, that he make mention of Him amidst
the kindreds and peoples of the world in such wise that hearts may revive and
the mouldering bone be quickened."
(Baháfuflláh:
Synopsis and Codification of the
Kitáb-i-Aqdas, p. 24)
5.13. Universal Auxiliary Language
35.
"Among the things which are conducive to unity and concord and will cause
the whole earth to be regarded as one country is that the divers languages be
reduced to one language and in like manner the scripts used in the world be
confined to a single script. It is incumbent upon all nations to appoint some
men of understanding and erudition to convene a gathering and through joint
consultation choose one language from among the varied existing languages, or
create a new one, to be taught to the children in all the schools of the
world."
(Baháfuflláh:
Tablets of Baháfuflláh, pp. 165-166)
36. "Now
praise be to God that Dr. Zamenhof has invented the Esperanto.@ It has all the potential qualities of
becoming the international means of communication. All of us must be grateful
and thankful to him for this noble effort; for in this way he has served his
fellowmen well. With untiring effort and self-sacrifice on the part of its
devotees Esperanto will become universal. Therefore every one of us must study
this language and spread it as far as possible so that day by day it may
receive a broader recognition, be accepted by all nations and governments of
the world, and become, a part of the curriculum in all the public schools. I
hope that Esperanto will be adopted as the language of all the future international
conferences and congresses, so that all people need acquire their own tongue
and the other the international language. Then perfect union will be
established between all the people of the world. Consider how difficult it is
today to communicate with various nations. If one studies fifty languages one
may yet travel through a country and not know the language. Therefore I hope
that you will make the utmost effort, so that this language of Esperanto may be
widely spread. "
(eAbdufl-Bahá's talk given at an Esperanto banquet in Paris in February,
1913: Baháfuflláh and the New Era,
p. 165)
37.
"Thou hast written regarding the language of Esperanto. This language will
be spread and universalized to a certain degree, but later on a language more
complete than this, or the same language will undergo some changes and
alterations and will be adopted and become universal. . . "
(eAbdufl-Bahá:
Tablets of eAbdul-Bahá, Vol. 111, p.
692)
38.
"Regarding the subject of Esperanto: it should be made clear to the
believers that while the teaching of that language has been repeatedly
encouraged by eAbdufl-Bahá, there is no reference either from Him or from
Baháfuflláh that can make us believe that it will necessarily develop into the
international auxiliary language of the future. Baháfuflláh has specified in
His writings that such a language will have either to be chosen from one of the
existing languages, or an entirely new one should be created to serve as a
medium of exchange between nations and peoples of the world. Pending this final
choice, the Baháfís are advised to study Esperanto only in consideration of the
fact that the learning of this language can considerably facilitate
inter-communication between groups and Assemblies throughout the Baháfí world in
the present stage of the evolution of the Faith."
(Letter
written on behalf of Shoghi Effendi to the National Spiritual Assembly of the
United States and Canada, 6/4/37: Lights of Guidance,
PP. 249-250)
39.
"Regarding the whole question of an International Language and its
relation to the Faith. . .we are not the protagonist of any one language to
fill this post. If the governments of the world agree on an existing language,
or a constructed, new tongue to be used internationally, we would heartily support
it because we desire to see this step in the unification of the human race take
place as soon as possible. . ."
(Letter
written on behalf of Shoghi Effendi to an individual believer, l0/17/44: Lights of Guidance, p. 250)
40. "Acquire
the Persian tongue so as to learn of the meanings of the divine words and to
know the divine mysteries, to develop an eloquent speech and to translate the
blessed Tablets of Baháfuflláh. The Persian language shall become noteworthy in
this Cycle; nay, rather the people shall study it in all the world."
(eAbdufl-Bahá:
Tablets of eAbdul-Bahá, Vol. 111, p.
306)
@
41.
"Thou hast, moreover, asked Me concerning the nature of the celestial
spheres. To comprehend their nature, it would necessary to inquire into the
meaning of the allusions that have been made in the Books of old to the
celestial spheres and heavens, and to discover the character of their
relationship to this physical world, and the influence which they exert upon
it. Every heart is filled wonder at so bewildering a theme, and every mind is
perplexed by its mystery. God, alone can fathom its import. The learned men,
that have fixed at several thousand years the life of this earth, have failed,
throughout the long period of their observation, to consider either the number
or the age of the other planets. Consider, moreover, the manifold divergences
that have resulted from the theories propounded by these men. Know thou that
every fixed star hath its own planets, and every planet its own creatures,
whose number no man can compute."
(Baháfuflláh:
Gleanings from the Writings of Baháfuflláh,
LXXXII, pp. 162-163)
42.
"Astronomy is a science, astrology does not come under the same category,
but we should be patient with people who believe in it, and gradually wean them
away from reliance on such things."
(Letter
written on behalf of Shoghi Effendi to an individual believer, 12/24/41: Lights of Guidance, p. 390)
43.
"First, we have to stud the economic teachings in the light of modern
problems more thoroughly so that we may advocate what the Founders of the Faith
say and not what we conjecture from their writings. There is a great difference
between sounding a great principle and finding its application to actual prevailing
conditions . . . "
(Letter
written on behalf of Shoghi Effendi to Economics Committee of the National
Spiritual Assembly of the United States and Canada, 1/11/33: Lights of Guidance, pp. 82-83)
43.
"First, we have to study the economic teachings in the light of modern
problems more thoroughly so that we may advocate what the Founders of the faith
say and not what we conjecture from their writings. There is a great difference
between sounding a great principle and finding its application to actual
prevailing conditions. . . "
(Letter
written on behalf of Shoghi Effendi to Economics Committee of the National
Spiritual Assembly of the United States and Canada, 1/11/33: Lights of Guidance, pp. 82-83)
44.
"There are practically no technical teachings on economics in the Cause
such as banking, the price system, and others. The Cause is not an economic
system, nor can Its Founders be considered as having been technical economists.
The contribution of the Faith to this subject is essentially indirect, as it
consists of the application of spiritual principles to our, present day
economic system. Baháfuflláh has given us a few basic principles which should
guide future Baháfí economists in establishing such institutions which will
adjust the economic relationships of the world. . ."@
(Letter
written on behalf of Shoghi Effendi to an individual believer. 1/25/36: Lights of Guidance, p. 83)
45. "The
primary consideration is the Spirit that has to permeate our economic life and
this will gradually crystallize itself into definite institutions and
principles that will help to bring about the ideal conditions foretold by
Baháfuflláh."
(Letter
written on behalf of Shoghi Effendi to the National Spiritual Assembly of the
United States and Canada, 12/20/31: Lights of Guidance,
p. 83)
46.
"...he feels, nevertheless that the economic principles of the Movement
have not as yet sufficiently crystallized to justify any believer to make any
detailed and definite statement as to their nature and application. In view of
that, he would advise you to give up, for the present, any attempt to prepare a
chart on Baháfí economics."
(Letter
written on behalf of Shoghi Effendi to an individual believer, 5/12/34: Lights of Guidance, pp. 84-85)
47. "We
have permitted you to listen to music and singing. Beware lest such listening
cause you to transgress the bounds of decency and dignity. Rejoice in the joy
of My Most Great Name through which the hearts are enchanted and the minds of
the well-favored are attracted.
"We
have made music a ladder by which souls may ascend to the realm on high. Change
it not into wings for self and passion. I seek refuge in God that you be not of
the ignorant."
(Baháfuflláh:
Baháfí Writings on Music, p. 3)
48. " .
. .Baháfuflláh, in this glorious period has revealed in Holy Tablets that
singing and music are the spiritual food of the hearts and souls. In this
dispensation music is one of the arts that is highly approved and is considered
to be the cause of the exaltation of sad and desponding hearts.
"Therefore.
. .set to music the verses and the divine words so that the may be sung with
soul-stirring melody in the Assemblies and gatherings, and that the hearts of
the listeners may become tumultuous and rise towards the Kingdom of Abha in
supplication and prayer.
(eAbdu'l-Bahá:
Baháfí World Faith, p. 378)
49. "In
short, musical melodies form an important role in the associations, or outward
and inward characteristics, or qualities of man, for it is the inspirer or motive
power of both the and material spiritual susceptibilities."
(eAbdu'l-Bahá:
Baháfí Writings on Music, p. 7)
50.
"Music is one of the important arts. It has a great effect upon the human
spirit. . .In sooth although music is a material affair, yet its tremendous
effect is spiritual and its greatest attachment is to the realm of the
spirit."
(eAbdu'l-Bahá:
Baháfí Writings on Music, p. 6)
51.
"Psychology is still a very young and inexact science, and as the years go
by Baháfí psychologists, who know from the teachings of Baháfuflláh the true
pattern of human life, will be able to make great strides in the development of
this science, and will help profoundly in the alleviation of human
suffering."
(Letter
written on behalf of the Universal House of Justice: The Throne
of the Inner Temple, p. 55)
52.
"Very little is as yet known about the mind and its workings. But one
thing is certain: Baháfís can and do receive a very remarkable help and
protection in this world, one which often surprises their doctors very
much!"
(Letter
written on behalf of Shoghi Effendi, 4/9148: Lights of
Guidance, p. 224)
53.
"There is nothing in our teachings about Freud and his method. Psychiatric
treatment in general is no doubt an important contribution to medicine, but we
must believe it is still a growing rather than a perfected science. As
Baháfuflláh has urged us to avail ourselves of the help of good physicians
Baháfís are certainly not only free to turn to psychiatry for assistance but
should, when advisable, do so. This does not mean psychiatrists are always wise
or always right, it means we are free to avail ourselves of the best medicine
has to offer us."
(Letter
written on behalf of Shoghi Effendi, 6/15/50: Lights of
Guidance, p. 222)
54. "It
is very hard to be subject to any illness, particularly a mental one. However,
we must always remember these illnesses have nothing to do with our spirit or
our inner relation to God. It is a great pity that as yet so little is known of
the mind, its workings and the illnesses that afflict it; no doubt, as the
world becomes more spiritually minded and scientists understand the true nature
of man, more humane and permanent cures for mental diseases will be found.
"The
Guardian, much as his heart goes out to You in Your fear and suffering, cannot
tell you whether electric shock treatments should or should not be used, as
this is a purely medical question, and there is no reference to such details in
our Scriptures. The best scientists must pass upon such methods, not laymen.
"You
must always remember, no matter how much you or others may be afflicted with
mental troubles and the crushing environment of these State Institutions, that
your spirit is healthy, near our Beloved, and will in the next world enjoy a
happy and normal state of soul. Let us hope in the meantime scientists will
find better and permanent cures for the mentally afflicted. But in this world
such illness is truly a heavy burden to bear!"
(Letter
written on behalf of Shoghi Effendi, 4/12/48: Lights of
Guidance, p. 225)
55. "In
the Baháfí Teachings it is made quite clear that when one is ill, one should
seek the best available medical advice. This naturally leaves a person free to
choose what they consider good in medical opinion. If you and . . . 's mother
feel that she is improving under the care of your own doctor, and . . . is
willing to wait and be patient and see if she goes on making progress, there
can surely be no objection to her doing this. There are a great many as you
know mental diseases and troubles at present, and the one thing Baháfís must
not do is take a defeatist attitude toward them. The power in the Faith is such
that it can sustain us on a much higher level in spite of whatever our ailments
might be, than other people who are denied it. This however does not mean that
we should ignore medical opinion and treatment. On the contrary, we should do
our best to procure the opinion of specialists and competent doctors."
(Letter
written on behalf of the Guardian to an individual believer, l/12/57: Lights of Guidance, p. 225)
56.
"This knowledge (of the healing art) is the most important of all the
sciences, for it is the greatest means from God, the Life-giver to the dust,
for preserving the bodies of all people, and He has put it in the forefront of
all sciences and wisdoms. For this is the day when you must arise for My
victory.
(Baháfuflláh:
The Throne of the Inner Temple, p. 53)
57.
"Well is it with the physician who cureth the ailments in My hallowed and
dearly-cherished Name.
(Baháfuflláh:
The Throne of the Inner Temple, p. 53)
58. "You
should endeavor to study the science of medicine . . .Strive day and night that
you may become highly qualified in this science. And when you wish to dispense
treatment set your heart towards the Abha Kingdom entreating divine
confirmation."
(eAbdu'l-Bahá:
The Throne of the Inner Temple, p. 54)
59. "O
thou sincere servant of the True One and spiritual physician of the people!
Whenever thou attendeth a patient turn thy face toward the Lord of thy Kingdom
supplicate assistance from the Holy Spirit and heal the ailments of the sick
one . . . . . "
(eAbdufl-Bahá
The Throne of the Inner Temple, p. 59)
60. "O
thou distinguished physician! . . .Praise be to God that thou hast two powers:
one to undertake physical healing and the other spiritual healing. Matters
related to man's spirit have a great effect on his bodily condition. For
instance, thou shouldst impart gladness to thy patient, give him comfort and
joy and bring him to ecstasy and exultation . . . . . Therefore, treat thou the
sick with both powers. Spiritual feelings have a surprising effect on healing
nervous ailments."
(eAbdufl-Bahá:
The Throne of the Inner Temple, p. 60)
61.
"Outside of marital life there can be no lawful or healthy use of the
sexual impulse. The Baháfí youth should, on one hand be taught the lesson of
self-control which when exercised undoubtedly has a salutary effect on the
development of character and of personality in general, and on the other should
be advised, nay even encouraged, to contract marriage while still young and in
full possession of their physical vigor. Economic factors, no doubt, are a
serious hindrance to early marriages but in most cases are only an excuse and
as such should not be overstressed."
(Letter from
Shoghi Effendi to an individual believer, 12/13/40: Baháfí
Marriage and Family Life, p. 22)
62. "Of
course, under normal circumstances, every person should consider it his moral
duty to marry. And this is what Baháfuflláh has encouraged the believers to do.
But marriage is by no means an obligation. In the last resort it is for the
individual to decide whether he wishes to lead a family life or live a state of
celibacy"
(Letter from
Shoghi Effendi to an individual believer, 5/3/36: Baháfí
Marriage and Family Life, p. 2)
63. "The
Baháfí Faith recognizes the value of the sex impulse, but condemns its
illegitimate and improper expressions such as free love, companionate marriage
and others, all of which it considers positively harmful to man and to his
society in which he lives. The proper use of the sex instinct is the natural
right of every individual, and it is precisely for this very purpose that the
institution of marriage has been established. The Baháfís do not believe in the
suppression of the sex impulse but in its regulation and control."
(Letter
written on behalf of Shoghi Effendi to an individual believer, 9/5/38: Baháfí Marriage and Family Life, pp. 13-14)
64. " It
should moreover be borne in mind that although to be married is highly
desirable, and Baháfuflláh has strongly recommended that, it is not the central
purpose of life. If a person has to wait a considerable period before finding a
spouse, or if ultimately he or she has must remain single, it does not mean
that he or she is thereby unable to fulfill his or her lifefs purpose."
(The
Universal House of Justice: Baháfí Marriage and Family
Life, p. 2)
65. ". .
.the task of formulating a system of education which would be officially
recognized by the Cause, and enforced as such throughout the Baháfí world is
one which the present-day generation of believers cannot obviously undertake,
and which has to be gradually accomplished by Baháfí scholars and
educationalists of the future.
(Shoghi
Effendi: Baháfí Curriculum Guide, iii)
66. "
The subjects to be taught in childrenfs schools are many. . . First and most
important is training in behavior and good character; the rectification of
qualities; arousing the desire to become accomplished and acquire perfections,
and to cleave unto the religion of God and stand firm in His Laws, to accord
total obedience to every just government, to show forth loyalty and
trustworthiness to the ruler of the time, to be well-wishers of mankind, to be
kind to all. "And further, as well as in the ideals of character,
instruction in such arts and sciences as are of benefit, and in foreign
tongues. "Also, the repeating of prayers for the well-being of ruler and
ruled; and the avoidance of materialistic works that are current among those
who see only natural causation, and tales of love, and books that arouse the
passions.
"To sum
up, let all the lessons be entirely devoted to the acquisition of human perfections.
Here, then, in brief are directions for the curriculum of these schools"
(eAbdufl-Bahá:
Baháfí Education, pp. 42-43)