Daily Frameworks for 11 January 2024

Istijlál, 12 Sharaf (Honor), 180 B.E.

Arising to Serve

Quote for Reflection:

Now, all questions of morality contained in the spiritual, immutable law of every religion are logically right. If religion were contrary to logical reason then it would cease to be a religion and be merely a tradition. Religion and science are the two wings upon which man’s intelligence can soar into the heights, with which the human soul can progress. It is not possible to fly with one wing alone! Should a man try to fly with the wing of religion alone he would quickly fall into the quagmire of superstition, whilst on the other hand, with the wing of science alone he would also make no progress, but fall into the despairing slough of materialism. All religions of the present day have fallen into superstitious practices, out of harmony alike with the true principles of the teaching they represent and with the scientific discoveries of the time. Many religious leaders have grown to think that the importance of religion lies mainly in the adherence to a collection of certain dogmas and the practice of rites and ceremonies! Those whose souls they profess to cure are taught to believe likewise, and these cling tenaciously to the outward forms, confusing them with the inward truth. — ‘Abdu’l-Bahá ¹

Questions for Consideration:

How would you respond to someone who said the following: “Religion is a thing of the past; science will solve all the problems of humanity?” Would it be helpful for you to clarify that religion is not the same as superstition, but it becomes so without science and that science without religion leads to despair born of materialism? Would you be able to give examples of how this occurs? ²

Google Bard Response:

Here’s how you could respond to someone who said, “Religion is a thing of the past; science will solve all the problems of humanity”:

Acknowledge their perspective:

• “I understand your viewpoint that science has made incredible progress and offers solutions to many challenges. Scientific advancements have indeed improved lives in countless ways.”
  

Emphasize the complementary roles of religion and science:

• “However, science and religion don’t need to compete. As ‘Abdu’l-Bahá said, they can be seen as two wings that allow us to reach greater heights. Science focuses on the material world and understanding its workings, while religion explores the realm of meaning, values, and ethics.”
  

Clarify the role of religion beyond superstition:

• “You mentioned superstition. It’s important to distinguish between true religion and blind attachment to outdated rituals or dogmatic beliefs. ‘Abdu’l-Bahá warned against this, saying that clinging to outward forms without seeking the inner truth can lead to superstition.”
  

Highlight the potential pitfalls of science without religion:

• “While science can solve practical problems, it doesn’t offer all the answers. Purely materialistic approaches can sometimes lead to a sense of meaninglessness or despair. Religion can provide a sense of purpose, connection, and moral grounding that science alone may not.”
  

Offer examples:

• “For instance, environmental degradation. Science can offer technological solutions to pollution, but addressing such issues requires a value shift, like environmental stewardship and respect for life. When understood beyond superstitions, religion can be crucial in shaping attitudes and behaviors.”
• “Another example is social justice. Science can analyze social inequalities, but implementing solutions requires compassion, empathy, and a sense of collective responsibility. When practiced authentically, religion can inspire these qualities and motivate individuals to work towards a fairer world.”
  

End on a positive note:

• “Ultimately, I believe that both science and religion, when seen as complementary forces, can contribute to a better future for humanity. We need both wings to truly soar.”
  

Remember:

• This is just one approach to the conversation. The most important thing is engaging in respectful dialogue, listening to the other person’s perspective, and avoiding generalizations or accusations.
• The aim is to share your perspective in a way that fosters understanding and encourages further conversation, not to impose your beliefs.
  

By emphasizing the complementary roles of science and religion, focusing on the dangers of superstition and materialism, and offering concrete examples, you can have a meaningful conversation about the future of these two powerful forces in human life.

1. ʻAbduʼl-Bahá. Paris Talks: Addresses Given by ʻAbduʼl-Bahá in 1911. Wilmette, Ill: Baháʼí Publishing Trust, 2006, 143. https://www.bahai.org/library/authoritative-texts/abdul-baha/paris-talks/5#352527373. ↩
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, 22. https://www.ruhi.org/en/walking-a-path-of-service/#AS. ↩