Kamál, 01 Ayyám-i-Há (The Days of Há), 180 B.E
Arising to Serve
Quote for Reflection:
And now we wish to address a few words to parents, who bear the primary responsibility for the upbringing of their children. We appeal to them to give constant attention to the spiritual education of their children. Some parents appear to think that this is the exclusive responsibility of the community; others believe that in order to preserve the independence of children to investigate truth, the Faith should not be taught to them. Still others feel inadequate to take on such a task. None of this is correct. The beloved Master has said that “it is enjoined upon the father and mother, as a duty, to strive with all effort to train the daughter and the son,” adding that, “should they neglect this matter, they shall be held responsible and worthy of reproach in the presence of the stern Lord.” 1 Independent of the level of their education, parents are in a critical position to shape the spiritual development of their children. They should not ever underestimate their capacity to mold their children’s moral character. For they exercise indispensable influence through the home environment they consciously create by their love of God, their striving to adhere to His laws, their spirit of service to His Cause, their lack of fanaticism, and their freedom from the corrosive effects of backbiting. Every parent who is a believer in the Blessed Beauty has the responsibility to conduct herself or himself in such a way as to elicit the spontaneous obedience to parents to which the Teachings attach so high a value. Of course, in addition to the efforts made at home, the parents should support Bahá’í children’s classes provided by the community. It must be borne in mind, too, that children live in a world that informs them of harsh realities through direct experience with the horrors already described or through the unavoidable outpourings of the mass media. Many of them are thereby forced to mature prematurely, and among these are those who look for standards and discipline by which to guide their lives. Against this gloomy backdrop of a decadent society, Bahá’í children should shine as the emblems of a better future. — Universal House of Justice 2
Question for Consideration:
What effects do gossip, backbiting, and constant criticism have on a community? 3
Google Gemini Response:
The Universal House of Justice passage clearly outlines the detrimental effects of gossip, backbiting, and constant criticism on a community, particularly in raising Bahá’í children. Here are some key points:
Direct Impact:
- Destroys trust and respect: Gossip and backbiting spread negativity and erode trust between individuals, creating a climate of suspicion and fear. Constant criticism can also damage self-esteem and discourage open communication.
- Breeds division and negativity: These actions highlight flaws and negativity, creating a perception of “us” versus “them” and fostering resentment and division within the community.
- Hinders spiritual development: The loving and supportive environment needed for spiritual growth is undermined by negativity and judgment.
- Sets a poor example for children: Parents who engage in these behaviors model harmful practices for their children, potentially shaping their future interactions within the community and beyond.
Additional Effects:
- Discourages participation: A community filled with negativity can be unwelcoming and discouraging, leading individuals to withdraw or disengage from activities.
- Hinders collaboration and service: Building unity and working together effectively are impossible when trust and respect are damaged.
- Creates an environment of fear and anxiety: Living in a community where negativity prevails can be stressful and anxiety-inducing for everyone.
- Damages the reputation of the community: Negative behavior within a community can reflect poorly on its values and principles, making it less attractive to others.
Contrasting with Bahá’í ideals:
- The Bahá’í community strives for unity, love, respect, and constructive criticism. These actions directly contradict these core values.
- They emphasize the importance of creating a positive and supportive environment for spiritual growth, which is incompatible with negativity and judgment.
- The responsibility of parents to guide their children includes instilling positive values and behaviors, setting a good example, and protecting them from harmful influences.
In conclusion: Gossip, backbiting, and constant criticism have far-reaching adverse effects on a community, hindering its growth, well-being, and ability to fulfill its purpose. The Bahá’í community actively promotes positive and constructive interactions, recognizing the importance of a loving and supportive environment for fostering individual and collective spiritual development.
Microsoft Copilot Response:
Gossip, backbiting, and constant criticism can significantly impact a community in various ways:
Erosion of Trust and Unity:
- Gossip and backbiting create an atmosphere of suspicion and mistrust among community members.
- When people engage in negative talk behind each other’s backs, it weakens the bonds of unity and cooperation.
- Trust is essential for a healthy community, and gossip undermines that trust.
Toxic Environment:
- Gossiping can lead to a toxic environment where people feel unsafe or unwelcome.
- Negative rumors and constant criticism breed negativity, affecting everyone’s well-being.
- A community poisoned by gossip becomes less supportive and nurturing.
Misinformation and Stereotypes:
- Even seemingly harmless gossip can spread misinformation and perpetuate stereotypes.
- False narratives about individuals or groups can harm their reputation and hinder collaboration.
- Verifying information before spreading it is essential to avoid perpetuating falsehoods.
Undermining Leadership and Unity:
- Backbiting undermines leadership by sowing doubt and questioning authority.
- When community members criticize leaders incessantly, it weakens their ability to guide effectively.
- Unity suffers when people focus on faults rather than working together constructively.
Emotional and Mental Health Impact:
- Gossiping may affect the mental health of both the gossiper and the target.
- Constant criticism creates a hostile emotional climate, leading to stress and anxiety.
- Individuals become hesitant to express their ideas or contribute openly.
Stifling Growth and Progress:
- Communities thrive by encouraging positive dialogue, constructive feedback, and collaboration.
- Gossip and backbiting hinder growth by diverting energy from productive endeavors.
- Instead of focusing on collective progress, people get entangled in personal conflicts.
Weakening Bonds of Friendship and Cooperation:
- Constant criticism damages relationships and weakens the bonds of friendship.
- When people feel constantly judged, they withdraw and avoid collaboration.
- A community divided by negativity struggles to achieve its goals.
In summary, communities flourish when they foster open communication, kindness, and constructive feedback. Avoiding gossip, practicing empathy, and promoting a culture of encouragement contribute to a healthier and more vibrant community.
Source: Conversation with Bing, 2/25/2024
- What is Gossip About? An Alternative Hypothesis | JSTOR
- Backbiting vs Gossiping: How Are These Words Connected? | The Content Authority
- Why Do People Gossip? Here’s What Science Says | TIME
- 4 Ways to Effectively Deal With Gossip | Psychology Today
- ’Abdu’l-Bahá. Selections from the Writings of ʻAbduʼl-Bahá. Translated by Marzieh Gail. Reprint. Wilmette, Illinois: Bahá’í Publishing Trust, 1996, 126-127. https://www.bahai.org/library/authoritative-texts/abdul-baha/selections-writings-abdul-baha/5#925545422. ↩
- Universal House of Justice. “Riḍván 2000 – To the Bahá’ís of the World.” Bahá’í Reference Library, April 20, 2000. https://www.bahai.org/library/authoritative-texts/the-universal-house-of-justice/messages/20000421_001/1#246716299. ↩
- 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, 54. https://www.ruhi.org/en/walking-a-path-of-service/#AS. ↩
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