Istiqlál, 18 Jalál (Glory), 182 B.E.
Social Action: Underlying Concepts and Principles
Quotes for Reflection:
All created things have their degree, or stage, of maturity. The period of maturity in the life of a tree is the time of its fruit bearing. The maturity of a plant is the time of its blossoming and flower. The animal attains a stage of full growth and completeness, and in the human kingdom man reaches his maturity when the lights of intelligence have their greatest power and development….
Similarly, there are periods and stages in the life of the aggregate world of humanity, which at one time was passing through its degree of childhood, at another its time of youth but now has entered its long presaged period of maturity, the evidences of which are everywhere visible and apparent. Therefore, the requirements and conditions of former periods have changed and merged into exigencies which distinctly characterize the present age of the world of mankind. That which was applicable to human needs during the early history of the race could neither meet nor satisfy the demands of this day and period of newness and consummation. Humanity has emerged from its former degrees of limitation and preliminary training. Man must now become imbued with new virtues and powers, new moralities, new capacities. New bounties, bestowals and perfections are awaiting and already descending upon him. The gifts and graces of the period of youth, although timely and sufficient during the adolescence of the world of mankind, are now incapable of meeting the requirements of its maturity. — ‘Abdu’l-Bahá 1 2
Question for Consideration
What are the expectations for humanity having entered its period of maturity and what are the implications for individual behavior?
Perplexity Pro Response 3
A New Stage in Human Development
According to ‘Abdu’l-Bahá and the Bahá’í Writings, humanity has collectively passed through stages analogous to childhood and youth and has now entered its period of maturity. This maturity is marked by the “lights of intelligence” reaching their greatest power and development, and by the emergence of new capacities, virtues, and moralities appropriate to the needs of this age [1].
Key Expectations for Humanity
Embrace New Virtues and Powers
Humanity must become “imbued with new virtues and powers, new moralities, new capacities” to meet the demands of maturity. The qualities sufficient for earlier stages are no longer adequate [1].
Adopt the Principle of the Oneness of Humankind
The hallmark of maturity is the recognition and application of the oneness and wholeness of the human race. This principle is not only a spiritual truth but the basis for a complete reconceptualization of all social relationships and structures [1].
Pursue Social Transformation
The period of maturity calls for the transformation of both the inner life and external conditions of humanity. This includes the advancement of civilization, the promotion of justice, and the establishment of unity and peace at a global level [1].
Apply Knowledge for the Common Good
The acquisition and application of knowledge—both spiritual and material—should serve the welfare and advancement of all peoples, not just individual or national interests [1].
Engage in Service to Humanity
The honor and distinction of individuals now lie in becoming sources of social good, promoting the best interests of all peoples, and dedicating themselves to the service of the entire human race [1].
Implications for Individual Behavior—Transformation of Personal Conduct
The entry into the age of maturity brings with it new standards for individual behavior, rooted in the needs of a global, interconnected society. Key implications include the following:
Universal Responsibility
Every individual is called to accept responsibility for the welfare of the entire human family, moving beyond narrow self-interest or group loyalties [1].
Service and Altruism
Individuals should strive to be a “source of social good,” actively contributing to the happiness, unity, and advancement of society. Service to others is seen as the highest form of personal distinction [1].
Justice and Equity
Personal conduct must be guided by justice and impartiality, considering the welfare of the community as one’s own and recognizing the interconnectedness of all people [1].
Continuous Learning and Capacity Building
Individuals are encouraged to acquire knowledge and skills that are beneficial to humanity, to refine their character, and to participate in building an ever-advancing civilization [1].
Promotion of Unity and Elimination of Prejudice
Individuals must work to remove prejudices of race, class, and creed, promote love and amity among all people, and foster unity at all levels of society [1].
Constructive Participation in Society
While avoiding partisan conflict, individuals are expected to engage in efforts that promote social transformation, justice, and the betterment of the world [1].
Summary Table: Expectations and Individual Implications
| Expectation for Humanity | Implication for Individual Behavior |
|---|---|
| Embrace new virtues and capacities | Cultivate new moral qualities and skills |
| Recognize oneness of humankind | Treat all as members of one human family |
| Advance civilization and justice | Serve society, promote justice and equity |
| Apply knowledge for common good | Seek education and use knowledge for social benefit |
| Engage in service to humanity | Prioritize service and altruism in daily life |
| Transform social relationships | Build unity, eliminate prejudice, foster inclusion |
Conclusion
Humanity’s period of maturity demands a fundamental transformation in both collective and individual life. The expectations are not merely ideals but call for concrete changes in how individuals think, act, and relate to others. The implications for personal behavior are profound: each person is invited to see themselves as a protagonist in the advancement of a unified, just, and ever-advancing global civilization, where service, justice, and the oneness of humanity are the guiding principles[1].
Citations
Follow-Up Questions Proposed by Perplexity
- How can individuals adapt their behaviors to align with the new moralities and virtues required in this period of humanity’s maturity?
- What specific new capacities are expected of humanity in its mature stage?
- How does the concept of collective maturity impact global social and economic development?
- What role does education play in the transition to humanity’s mature stage?
- How can communities foster the new bounties and bestowals mentioned in the text?
- 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#180873848. ↩
- ’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, 438. https://www.bahai.org/library/authoritative-texts/abdul-baha/promulgation-universal-peace/32#435634351. ↩
- Perplexity Pro. “Expectations for Humanity in Its Period of Maturity.” Edited by Steve Bosserman. April 24, 2025. https://www.perplexity.ai/search/all-created-things-have-their-UDoHoMy1TaKdVfMB2VPWDg. ↩
Frameworks for Understanding the World 