Daily Frameworks for 17 March 2024

Jamál, 17 ‘Alá’ (Loftiness), 180 B.E

Teaching Children’s Classes, Grade 1

Quotes for Reflection:

YE should consider the question of goodly character as of the first importance. It is incumbent upon every father and mother to counsel their children over a long period, and guide them unto those things which lead to everlasting honor.
Encourage ye the school children, from their earliest years, to deliver speeches of high quality, so that in their leisure time they will engage in giving cogent and effective talks, expressing themselves with clarity and eloquence. — ’Abdu’l-Bahá ¹

Training in morals and good conduct is far more important than book learning. A child that is cleanly, agreeable, of good character, well-behaved—even though he be ignorant—is preferable to a child that is rude, unwashed, ill-natured, and yet becoming deeply versed in all the sciences and arts. The reason for this is that the child who conducts himself well, even though he be ignorant, is of benefit to others, while an ill-natured, ill-behaved child is corrupted and harmful to others, even though he be learned. If, however, the child be trained to be both learned and good, the result is light upon light. — ’Abdu’l-Bahá ²

MY wish is that these children should receive a Bahá’í education, so that they may progress both here and in the Kingdom, and rejoice thy heart.
In a time to come, morals will degenerate to an extreme degree. It is essential that children be reared in the Bahá’í way, that they may find happiness both in this world and the next. If not, they shall be beset by sorrows and troubles, for human happiness is founded upon spiritual behavior. — ’Abdu’l-Bahá ³

Question for Consideration:

Based on the quotes above, what does “goodly character” mean, and how does it apply to child education? ⁴

Google Gemini Response:

Based on the provided quotes from ‘Abdu’l-Bahá, “goodly character” in Bahá’í child education encompasses several key aspects:

• Moral compass and ethical behavior: This refers to developing a strong sense of right and wrong, treating others with kindness and respect, and adhering to moral principles like honesty, trustworthiness, and justice. (‘Abdu’l-Bahá emphasizes this in the first quote, calling for guidance “unto those things which lead to everlasting honor.”)
• Good conduct and manners: This includes behaving respectfully towards others, showing self-discipline, and maintaining cleanliness and hygiene. (‘Abdu’l-Bahá highlights this in the second quote, stating that a well-behaved child, even without extensive knowledge, is preferable to a learned but ill-mannered one.)
• Effective communication: Being able to express oneself clearly and eloquently is part of a “goodly character.” Encouraging children to deliver well-structured and impactful talks fosters these skills. (‘Abdu’l-Bahá emphasizes this in the first quote.)
• Spiritual foundation: Ultimately, “goodly character” is rooted in a solid spiritual foundation. Children raised in the Bahá’í way can develop a sense of purpose, a connection to something larger than themselves, and a desire to contribute positively to the world. (‘Abdu’l-Bahá highlights this in the third quote, stating His wish for children to receive a Bahá’í education for happiness “both here and in the Kingdom.”)
  

Importance of Goodly Character in Education

• Foundation for a Good Life: The passages emphasize that a “goodly character” is more important than mere academic knowledge. It provides a strong foundation for leading a happy, fulfilling, and meaningful life. (‘Abdu’l-Bahá highlights this in the second quote, stating that a well-behaved child is “of benefit to others.”)
• Positive Impact on Others: Children with good character can positively influence their peers and contribute to a more harmonious and respectful environment.
• Long-Term Benefits: These qualities foster lifelong resilience and help children navigate whatever challenges may arise. (‘Abdu’l-Bahá emphasizes this in the third quote, stating that children raised in the Bahá’í way will find happiness “both in this world and the next.”)
  

Overall, “goodly character” in Bahá’í child education goes beyond mere behavior. It encompasses developing a strong moral compass, good manners, effective communication skills, and a spiritual foundation. These qualities are essential for a child’s well-being and contributing positively to the world.

Microsoft Copilot Response:

The term “goodly character” refers to a set of positive and virtuous qualities that shape an individual’s behavior, attitudes, and interactions with others. It encompasses honesty, kindness, integrity, compassion, and respect. In the context of child education, cultivating goodly character is of utmost importance, even more so than mere book learning. Let’s explore how this concept applies to raising children:

Character Over Book Learning

’Abdu’l-Bahá emphasizes that training in morals and good conduct is more important than acquiring knowledge from books.

• A child possessing good character but lacking formal education benefits others through positive behavior.
• In contrast, a knowledgeable child with ill-natured behavior can be harmful to others.
  

The Ideal Child

• According to ’Abdu’l-Bahá, an ideal child is one who is clean, agreeable, and well-behaved, regardless of their level of education.
• Such a child contributes positively to society and brings light to others’ lives.
  

Bahá’í Education

• ’Abdu’l-Bahá wishes children to receive a Bahá’í education.
• This education instills spiritual values, moral principles, and good character traits.
• The goal is to prepare children for happiness in this world and the next.
  

Degeneration of Morals

• ’Abdu’l-Bahá predicts that in the future, morals will decline significantly.
• To counter this, children must be raised in a way that aligns with Bahá’í teachings, emphasizing spiritual behavior and character development.
  

In summary, goodly character involves more than knowledge; it encompasses virtues that benefit both the individual and society. Educating children this way ensures their well-being and contributes to a brighter future for all.

Source: Conversation with Bing, 3/16/2024

• Big List of 48 Godly Character Traits You Should Develop | The Character Corner
• Search (goodly+character+meaning+in+child+education) | Bing
• 36 Godly Character Traits: Watermark’s Elementary Curriculum | Watermark
• Character Qualities | Institute in Basic Life Principles
• The Purpose and Scope of Christian Education | Dayspring Christian Academy
• How To Develop Godly Character In Our Kids | Wildly Anchored
• Teaching Character to Your Kids | Focus On The Family
• Developing Christian Character in Children | Focus On The Family

1. ’Abdu’l-Bahá. Selections from the Writings of ʻAbduʼl-Bahá. Translated by Marzieh Gail. Reprint. Wilmette, Illinois: Bahá’í Publishing Trust, 1996, 134. https://www.bahai.org/library/authoritative-texts/abdul-baha/selections-writings-abdul-baha/6#100337898. ↩
2. ’Abdu’l-Bahá. Selections from the Writings of ʻAbduʼl-Bahá. Translated by Marzieh Gail. Reprint. Wilmette, Illinois: Bahá’í Publishing Trust, 1996, 135-136. https://www.bahai.org/library/authoritative-texts/abdul-baha/selections-writings-abdul-baha/6#283100315. ↩
3. ’Abdu’l-Bahá. Selections from the Writings of ʻAbduʼl-Bahá. Translated by Marzieh Gail. Reprint. Wilmette, Illinois: Bahá’í Publishing Trust, 1996, 127. https://www.bahai.org/library/authoritative-texts/abdul-baha/selections-writings-abdul-baha/6#634383012. ↩
4. Ruhi Institute. Teaching Children’s Classes, Grade 1. 2.2.1.PE September 2021. Vol. Book 3. 6 vols. Embarking on a Path of Service. Cali, Columbia: Ruhi Foundation, 2021, 5-6. https://www.ruhi.org/en/walking-a-path-of-service/#CC1. ↩