Istiqlál, 04 Jalál (Glory), 182 B.E.
Social Action: Underlying Concepts and Principles
Quote for Reflection:
Once in session, it behoveth them to converse, on behalf of God’s servants, upon the affairs and interests of all. They should, for instance, accord precedence to the teaching of the Cause, inasmuch as it is a matter of supreme importance, so that all people, even as a single soul, may enter within the Tabernacle of divine Unity, and all humanity may become even as a single body. In like manner, they should consider such matters as the refinement of manners, the preservation of human dignity, the development of cities, and the polity which God hath made a bulwark for His lands and a fortress for His people. — Bahá’u’lláh 1 2
Question for Consideration
Why is the teaching of the Cause of supreme importance?
Perplexity Pro Response 3
The teaching of the Cause is considered of supreme importance in the Bahá’í Faith because it is fundamental to fulfilling humanity’s spiritual purpose and advancing collective unity. Bahá’u’lláh emphasized that spreading the teachings of God is a “sacred obligation” for all believers, as it enables individuals to recognize their spiritual reality, draw closer to God, and contribute to the betterment of society [2] [5].
Reasons for its Supreme Importance
Unity and Oneness: The central aim of Bahá’u’lláh’s teachings is the oneness of humanity. Teaching the Cause helps people understand this principle and work toward creating a unified global society, where humanity functions as a single body, free from divisions such as prejudice, inequality, and exploitation [3] [6].
Spiritual Growth: Teaching the Faith is described as “the most meritorious of all deeds” and is essential for spiritual growth. It allows individuals to share divine knowledge, uplift others, and experience personal transformation through service [5] [7].
Advancement of Civilization: The Bahá’í Faith envisions an ever-advancing civilization rooted in justice, wisdom, and unity. Teaching the Cause spreads principles such as universal education, equality, and peace, which are necessary for building this civilization [6].
Guidance for Humanity: The Bahá’í teachings provide solutions to global challenges by offering guidance on spiritual and social matters. Sharing these teachings ensures that humanity has access to divine wisdom needed for progress [2] [6].
Victory of the Covenant: Teaching the Cause ensures the victory of Bahá’u’lláh’s Covenant by strengthening its foundation and bringing more souls into alignment with its principles. This contributes to the ultimate triumph of unity and peace in the world [5] [7].
In essence, teaching the Cause is not only a means of spreading awareness but also a transformative act that fosters individual and collective advancement toward divine unity and global harmony.
Citations
[1] Ark of the Cause of God – Bahá’ís of the United States
[3] THE ONENESS of Humanity – Bahá’ís of the United States
[4] Abdu’l-Baha’s Three Conditions Of Teaching The Cause of God – Baha’i Memories
[5] Universal House of Justice, 22 April 1996 – [To an individual] – Bahá’í Reference Library
[6] Teachings of Baha’u’llah – Baha’is of Beaverton
Follow-Up Questions Proposed by Perplexity
- How does the teaching of the Cause contribute to the unity of humanity?
- What are the key elements of the Bahá’í teachings that promote unity?
- How does the Bahá’í Faith address the refinement of manners and human dignity?
- What role does the development of cities play in the Bahá’í teachings?
- How does the Bahá’í Faith view the polity that God has established for His lands and people?
- Research Department of the Universal House of Justice. “The Local Spiritual Assembly: A Compilation.” Bahá’í Reference Library, 1986, Rev 2017. https://www.bahai.org/library/authoritative-texts/compilations/local-spiritual-assembly/1#422666016. ↩
- Research Department of the Universal House of Justice. “Social Action.” Bahá’í Reference Library, August 2020. https://www.bahai.org/library/authoritative-texts/compilations/social-action/2#958614199. ↩
- Perplexity Pro. “The Supreme Importance of Teaching the Cause.” Edited by Steve Bosserman. April 10, 2025. https://www.perplexity.ai/search/-SA.Ll19hR72DkDfoUfEbow. ↩
Frameworks for Understanding the World 