Daily Frameworks for 17 January 2024

’Idál, 18 Sharaf (Honor), 180 B.E.

Arising to Serve

Quote for Reflection:

Difference of capacity in human individuals is fundamental. It is impossible for all to be alike, all to be equal, all to be wise. Bahá’u’lláh has revealed principles and laws which will accomplish the adjustment of varying human capacities. He has said that whatsoever is possible of accomplishment in human government will be effected through these principles. When the laws He has instituted are carried out, there will be no millionaires possible in the community and likewise no extremely poor. This will be effected and regulated by adjusting the different degrees of human capacity. The fundamental basis of the community is agriculture, tillage of the soil. All must be producers. Each person in the community whose need is equal to his individual producing capacity shall be exempt from taxation. But if his income is greater than his needs, he must pay a tax until an adjustment is effected. That is to say, a man’s capacity for production and his needs will be equalized and reconciled through taxation. If his production exceeds, he will pay a tax; if his necessities exceed his production, he shall receive an amount sufficient to equalize or adjust. Therefore, taxation will be proportionate to capacity and production, and there will be no poor in the community.

Bahá’u’lláh, likewise, commanded the rich to give freely to the poor. In the Kitáb-i-Aqdas it is further written by Him that those who have a certain amount of income must give one-fifth of it to God, the Creator of heaven and earth. — ‘Abdu’l-Bahá ¹

Question for Consideration:

What would you answer if someone who read the quote above asked you the following: “Are you saying that the rich will come to understand and support strict tax laws, and they will willingly pay what they really should? What makes this possible?” ²

Google Bard Response:

While the quote by ‘Abdu’l-Bahá outlines a vision for a more equitable society with adjusted wealth distribution through progressive taxation and mandatory charity, the question of whether the wealthy will readily support such measures poses a complex challenge. Here are some potential answers you could offer, depending on the context of the conversation:

Addressing skepticism and encouraging open dialogue:

• Acknowledge the challenge: Recognize the natural skepticism some might hold towards expecting the wealthy to support measures that could reduce their wealth willingly. Express openness to discussing the merits and potential challenges of such a system.
• Appeal to ethical principles: Emphasize the quote’s connection to Bahá’u’lláh’s teachings on social justice and the responsibility of the wealthy towards the less fortunate. Discuss the potential for ethical considerations and a sense of shared humanity to motivate individuals to contribute to the common good.
• Focus on long-term benefits: Discuss how a more equitable society with less extreme wealth inequality could benefit everyone, including the wealthy. Mention potential improvements in social stability, economic security, and overall well-being.
  

Exploring potential motivators for change:

• Self-interest and enlightened altruism: Explain how supporting progressive taxation and mandatory charity could be seen as enlightened self-interest, benefiting society as a whole and creating a more stable environment conducive to long-term prosperity for everyone, including the wealthy.
• Moral responsibility and spiritual fulfillment: Discuss the spiritual dimension of Bahá’u’lláh’s teachings, where giving to the poor and promoting justice are seen as acts of service to God and a source of spiritual fulfillment. This can resonate with individuals who seek meaning and purpose beyond material wealth.
• Historical and contemporary examples: Share examples of individuals of wealth who have advocated for and supported progressive taxation or philanthropic initiatives. Discuss historical periods where similar systems were implemented and their potential lessons for the present.
  

Emphasizing the importance of ongoing dialogue and action:

• Acknowledge the complexity: Recognize that achieving a more just society is a complex process that requires ongoing dialogue, education, and adjustments. Encourage open discussion and critical reflection on different approaches to addressing wealth inequality.
• Focus on shared goals: Instead of focusing solely on the question of whether the wealthy will “willingly” support such measures, emphasize the common goal of building a more just and equitable society where everyone can thrive. This can shift the conversation towards collaborative solutions.
• Promote individual action and collective efforts: Encourage individuals to consider their role in contributing to a more just society, whether through supporting charitable causes, advocating for policy changes, or practicing ethical consumption habits. Highlight the importance of collective action through community initiatives and social movements.
  

Remember, there is no single answer that will convince everyone. The most important thing is approaching the conversation with an open mind, respecting differing viewpoints, and committing to finding solutions that benefit the common good. By fostering a dialogue based on ethical principles, long-term benefits, and shared responsibility, you can contribute to a more just and equitable future for all.

1. ’Abdu’l-Bahá. The Promulgation of Universal Peace: Talks Delivered by ʻAbduʼl-Bahá during His Visit to the United States and Canada in 1912. Edited by Howard MacNutt. 2nd ed. Wilmette, Ill: Baháʼí Publishing Trust, 1982, 217. https://www.bahai.org/library/authoritative-texts/abdul-baha/promulgation-universal-peace/16#828752876. ↩
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, 25-26. https://www.ruhi.org/en/walking-a-path-of-service/#AS. ↩