Fidál, 13 Qawl (Speech), 180 B.E.
Reflections on the Life of the Spirit
Quote for Reflection:
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. If any man were to meditate on that which the Scriptures, sent down from the heaven of God’s holy Will, have revealed, he would readily recognize that their purpose is that all men shall be regarded as one soul, so that the seal bearing the words “The Kingdom shall be God’s” may be stamped on every heart, and the light of Divine bounty, of grace, and mercy may envelop all mankind. — Bahá’u’lláh 1
Questions for Consideration:
What does the word “talisman” mean?
What is the consequence of the lack of a proper education?
What can a proper education cause? 2
Google Bard Response:
What does the word “talisman” mean?
In the provided quotation, Baháʼuʼlláh uses the word “talisman” to refer to something that has great power and potential. A talisman is often seen as an object that can bring good luck or protection. In this context, Baháʼuʼlláh is saying that human beings are like talismans because they have the potential to achieve great things. However, they need to be properly educated to unlock their full potential.
What is the consequence of the lack of a proper education?
The lack of a proper education can deprive people of their inherent potential. Baháʼuʼlláh says that education can “cause it to reveal its treasures, and enable mankind to benefit therefrom.” This suggests that people can only reach their full potential if they are given the opportunity to learn and grow.
What can a proper education cause?
A proper education can cause people to “regard all men as one soul.” This is because education can help people understand the common humanity we all share. It can also help people to develop empathy and compassion for others. When people are educated and enlightened, they are more likely to work together to create a better world.
In essence, Baháʼuʼlláh is arguing that education is essential for human progress. He believes education can help us unlock our full potential and create a more just and equitable world.
- Bahá’u’lláh. Gleanings from the Writings of Bahá’u’lláh. Translated by Shoghi Effendi. Bahá’í Reference Library. Accessed December 4, 2023. https://www.bahai.org/library/authoritative-texts/bahaullah/gleanings-writings-bahaullah/6#610383368. ↩
- Ruhi Institute. Reflections on the Life of the Spirit. 4.1.2.PE May 2020. Vol. Book 1. 6 vols. Embarking on a Path of Service. Cali, Columbia: Ruhi Institute, 2020, 45-46. https://www.ruhi.org/en/walking-a-path-of-service/#RLS ↩
Frameworks for Understanding the World 