Daily Frameworks for 31 December 2023

Jamál, 01 Sharaf (Honor), 180 B.E.

Arising to Serve

Quote for Reflection:

But education is of three kinds: material, human, and spiritual. Material education aims at the growth and development of the body, and consists in securing its sustenance and obtaining the means of its ease and comfort. This education is common to both man and animal.

Human education, however, consists in civilization and progress, that is, sound governance, social order, human welfare, commerce and industry, arts and sciences, momentous discoveries, and great undertakings, which are the central features distinguishing man from the animal.

As to divine education, it is the education of the Kingdom and consists in acquiring divine perfections. This is indeed true education, for by its virtue man becomes the focal centre of divine blessings and the embodiment of the verse “Let Us make man in Our image, after Our likeness.” (Gen. 1:26) This is the ultimate goal of the world of humanity. — ‘Abdu’l-Bahá ¹

Question for Consideration:

What are the different kinds of education, and what is the purpose of each? ²

Google Bard Response:

Based on the quote by ‘Abdu’l-Bahá, there are three distinct types of education, each with a specific purpose:

Material Education:

• Focus: Growth and development of the body.
• Purpose: Ensuring physical well-being through securing sustenance, comfort, and basic needs.
• Scope: Shared by both humans and animals, emphasizing survival and sustenance.
  

Human Education:

• Focus: Civilization and progress.
• Purpose: Developing societal structures and skills distinguishing humans from animals.
• Scope: Includes things like:
  
  • Sound governance and social order.
  • Human welfare and social development.
  • Commerce, industry, and economic stability.
  • Arts, sciences, and intellectual pursuits.
  • Groundbreaking discoveries and advancements.
  • Large-scale projects and infrastructure development.
    

Spiritual Education:

• Focus: Acquiring divine perfections.
• Purpose: Aligning oneself with God’s attributes and attaining spiritual understanding.
• Scope: Represents the highest form of education, leading to:
  
  • Becoming a “focal centre of divine blessings.”
  • Embodying the divine image within humanity.
  • Fulfilling the ultimate purpose of human existence.
    

Relationship between the types:

• Interconnectedness: While distinct, the types are interconnected. Material education forms the foundation for human development, facilitating spiritual growth.
• Cumulative progression: Each level builds upon the previous one. Mastering material needs paves the way for societal contributions supporting spiritual pursuits.
• Ultimate goal: Spiritual education is the pinnacle, representing the true purpose of human existence and aligning us with the divine image.
  

Beyond the quote:

• Individual interpretation: The relative emphasis on each type of education can vary depending on personal beliefs and circumstances.
• Holistic approach: Ideally, all three types are pursued in a balanced way, contributing to a well-rounded and meaningful life.
  

Remember, this is just a glimpse into the concept of education in the Bahá’í context. Further exploration of Bahá’í writings and teachings can provide deeper insights into this multifaceted perspective on education and its role in human development.

1. ’Abdu’l-Bahá. Some Answered Questions. Bahá’í Reference Library. Accessed December 30, 2023. https://www.bahai.org/library/authoritative-texts/abdul-baha/some-answered-questions/4#803129223. ↩
2. Ruhi Institute. Arising to Serve. 2.1.1.PE September 2020. Vol. Book 2. 6 vols. Embarking on a Path of Service. Cali, Columbia: Ruhi Foundation, 2020, 17. https://www.ruhi.org/en/walking-a-path-of-service/#AS. ↩