Jalál, 05 Jalál (Glory), 182 B.E.
Social Action: Underlying Concepts and Principles
Quotes for Reflection:
How long shall we drift on the wings of passion and vain desire; how long shall we spend our days like barbarians in the depths of ignorance and abomination? God has given us eyes, that we may look about us at the world, and lay hold of whatsoever will further civilization and the arts of living. He has given us ears, that we may hear and profit by the wisdom of scholars and philosophers and arise to promote and practice it. Senses and faculties have been bestowed upon us, to be devoted to the service of the general good; so that we, distinguished above all other forms of life for perceptiveness and reason, should labor at all times and along all lines, whether the occasion be great or small, ordinary or extraordinary, until all mankind are safely gathered into the impregnable stronghold of knowledge. We should continually be establishing new bases for human happiness and creating and promoting new instrumentalities toward this end. How excellent, how honorable is man if he arises to fulfill his responsibilities; how wretched and contemptible, if he shuts his eyes to the welfare of society and wastes his precious life in pursuing his own selfish interests and personal advantages. Supreme happiness is man’s, and he beholds the signs of God in the world and in the human soul, if he urges on the steed of high endeavor in the arena of civilization and justice. “We will surely show them Our signs in the world and within themselves” (Qur’án 41:53). — ‘Abdu’l-Bahá 1 2
Question for Consideration
From a Bahá’í perspective, rather than behaving like barbarians in the depths of ignorance and abomination how should one’s days be spent?
Perplexity Pro Response 3
From a Bahá’í perspective, one’s days should be spent in purposeful actions that contribute to the advancement of civilization, the betterment of humanity, and the fulfillment of spiritual and material potential. This involves striving for personal transformation, serving others selflessly, and engaging in activities that promote social good. Below are key principles guiding how one’s time and efforts should be devoted:
Service to Humanity
- The Bahá’í teachings emphasize that the true purpose of life is to serve humanity. Individuals are encouraged to focus on actions that rehabilitate society, promote justice, and uplift the conditions of all people [1].
- Service is seen as the highest form of human distinction, where individuals become sources of social good by contributing to the welfare and happiness of others [6].
Acquisition and Application of Knowledge
- Knowledge is regarded as “wings to man’s life” and essential for personal and societal progress. Bahá’ís are called to acquire knowledge that benefits humanity, such as sciences, arts, and crafts that uplift society [3] [6].
- Education should be accessible to all, enabling individuals to independently investigate truth and apply their learning toward constructive ends [6].
Spiritual Development
- Spiritual growth is achieved through prayer, meditation, and adherence to divine teachings. These practices refine character and help individuals align their actions with higher principles [2] [6].
- The integration of spiritual virtues—such as honesty, trustworthiness, generosity, and compassion—into daily life is essential for creating a harmonious society [5].
Promotion of Unity
- Bahá’u’lláh’s teachings call for the establishment of global unity and the oneness of humanity. This involves rejecting prejudice, fostering racial unity, and working toward peace and justice [4] [5].
- Efforts should be directed toward building relationships based on cooperation, mutual respect, and shared goals for collective progress [5].
Balance Between Material and Spiritual Civilization
- Material achievements must be complemented by spiritual development to ensure true human happiness. Bahá’ís are encouraged to seek moderation in all things while striving for both physical and spiritual excellence [5].
Engagement in Social Action
- Individuals are tasked with participating in initiatives that address societal challenges while promoting education, health, agriculture, trade, and industry [1] [3].
- Social action should aim at creating a flourishing community life characterized by collaboration and systematic learning [1].
In summary, rather than pursuing selfish interests or vain desires, Bahá’ís believe one’s days should be dedicated to advancing civilization through service, knowledge acquisition, spiritual refinement, unity-building, and meaningful contributions to society. This approach aligns human efforts with divine purpose while fostering individual fulfillment and collective progress.
Citations
[2] Leading a More Meaningful Life – BahaiTeachings.org
[3] Human Knowledge and the Advancement of Society – Hoda Mahmoudi (PDF)
[4] Baha’i: Individual Responsibility – Re:Online
[6] Personal Transformation – Bahá’ís of Canada
Follow-Up Questions Proposed by Perplexity
- How can we apply the teachings of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá to modern societal issues?
- What are some practical ways to promote the arts and civilization in our communities?
- How can we balance personal interests with the greater good according to Bahá’í teachings?
- What role does education play in achieving a more just and peaceful society?
- How can we use our senses and faculties to contribute to the betterment of society?
- ’Abdu’l-Bahá. The Secret of Divine Civilization. Translated by Marzieh Gail. 2nd Edition | Reprint. Wilmette, Ill: Baháʾí Publishing Trust, 1975, 3-4. https://www.bahai.org/library/authoritative-texts/abdul-baha/secret-divine-civilization/2#574361742 ↩
- 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#958614198. ↩
- Perplexity Pro. “Days Spent in Purposeful Action.” Edited by Steve Bosserman. April 11, 2025. https://www.perplexity.ai/search/how-long-shall-we-drift-on-the-dHHgk4NdRG.tc5kt9jrtKQ. ↩
Frameworks for Understanding the World 