Kamál, 11 ʻAẓamat (Grandeur), 182 B.E.
Social Action: Underlying Concepts and Principles
Quotes for Reflection:
The Holy See has consistently opposed the expansion of knowledge, to such a degree that in Europe it has come to be held that religion is the enemy of science and that science is the destroyer of the foundations of religion. Whereas the religion of God is the promoter of truth, the establisher of science and learning, the supporter of knowledge, the civilizer of the human race, the discoverer of the secrets of existence, and the enlightener of the horizons of the world. How then could it oppose knowledge? God forbid! On the contrary, in the sight of God knowledge is the greatest human virtue and the noblest human perfection. To oppose knowledge is pure ignorance, and he who abhors knowledge and learning is not a human being but a mindless animal. For knowledge is light, life, felicity, perfection, and beauty, and causes the soul to draw nigh to the divine threshold. It is the honour and glory of the human realm and the greatest of God’s bounties. Knowledge is identical to guidance, and ignorance is the essence of error.
Happy are those who spend their days in the pursuit of knowledge, in the discovery of the secrets of the universe, and in the meticulous investigation of truth! — ‘Abdu’l-Bahá 1 2
Question for Consideration
What is the relationship between the religion of God and the human pursuit of knowledge, discovery of the secrets of the universe, and meticulous investigation of truth?
Perplexity Pro Response 3
Religion as the Promoter of Knowledge and Discovery
The Baháʼí teachings, as articulated by ‘Abdu’l-Bahá and Bahá’u’lláh, establish a profound relationship between the religion of God and the human pursuit of knowledge, discovery, and truth. Far from opposing knowledge, true religion is described as its promoter and supporter, seeing the advancement of learning and the investigation of reality as essential to human progress and spiritual development. The pursuit of knowledge is not merely permitted but is considered a divine command and the greatest human virtue [1].
Unity of Science and Religion
A central tenet of the Baháʼí Faith is the harmony of science and religion. The Baháʼí writings emphatically reject the notion that religion and science are inherently in conflict. Instead, they assert that both are complementary systems of knowledge, each essential for the advancement of civilization. Religion, when divorced from science, degenerates into superstition and fanaticism; science, without the guidance of spiritual and moral principles, becomes a tool for materialism and, potentially, destruction [6] [5] [3]. True religion must conform to reason and the discoveries of science; if religious beliefs contradict scientific knowledge, they are to be regarded as superstition [5].
Independent Investigation of Truth
The Baháʼí Faith places great emphasis on the independent investigation of truth. Every individual is encouraged to seek truth for themselves, free from the constraints of superstition, prejudice, and blind imitation [4] [2]. This process is not limited to religious truth but encompasses scientific truth as well. The search for truth is seen as a path that draws the soul closer to God and is foundational to the unity and progress of humanity [4].
Knowledge as Divine Guidance and Human Perfection
Knowledge is described in the Baháʼí writings as “light, life, felicity, perfection, and beauty,” drawing the soul nearer to the divine threshold [1]. It is through knowledge that humanity uncovers the secrets of existence and advances civilization. The acquisition of both spiritual and material knowledge is incumbent upon everyone, and the fruits of knowledge are to be used for the welfare and progress of humanity [1].
The Role of Reason and Spiritual Qualities
Human beings are endowed with a rational soul, which enables them to investigate reality, discern truth, and develop both intellectually and spiritually [2]. The Baháʼí teachings stress that faith is not blind belief but “conscious knowledge,” a conviction grounded in reason, reflection, and service to humanity [2] [7]. The cultivation of virtues such as justice, truthfulness, and service is seen as integral to the proper use of knowledge.
Material and Spiritual Civilization
The Baháʼí writings liken material civilization to a lamp and spiritual civilization to its light [1]. Only when both are combined can humanity achieve true happiness and fulfillment. Material achievements, including scientific discoveries, must be guided by spiritual values to ensure they contribute to the well-being of all. The ultimate aim is a dynamic coherence between the material and spiritual requirements of life [1] [6].
Consultation and Collective Search for Truth
Consultation—a process of collective deliberation and investigation—is upheld as a fundamental principle for discovering truth and solving problems [1]. Through consultation, individuals and communities can pool their knowledge and insights, leading to greater understanding and unity.
Summary Table: Baháʼí Perspective on Religion and Knowledge
| Principle | Description |
|---|---|
| Harmony of Science and Religion | Science and religion are complementary; both are necessary for human advancement [6] [3] [5]. |
| Independent Investigation of Truth | Each individual must seek truth independently, free from prejudice and imitation [4] [2]. |
| Knowledge as Divine Virtue | Knowledge is the greatest human virtue and essential for spiritual and material progress [1]. |
| Use of Reason | Reason and faith are both required; faith is “conscious knowledge” grounded in reason [2] [7]. |
| Consultation | Collective investigation and consultation lead to deeper understanding and unity [1]. |
| Material and Spiritual Civilization | Both must advance together for true human happiness and flourishing [1] [6]. |
Conclusion
In the Baháʼí view, the religion of God is not the enemy of knowledge but its greatest champion. The pursuit of knowledge, the discovery of the universe’s secrets, and the meticulous investigation of truth are seen as sacred duties, integral to both personal spiritual growth and the advancement of civilization. Religion and science, when harmonized, can together unlock humanity’s highest potential and illuminate the path to unity, justice, and peace [1] [6] [2].
Citations:
[2] Baháʼí teachings – Wikipedia
[3] Baháʼí views on science – Wikipedia
[4] Independent investigation of truth – Bahaipedia
[5] The Unity of Religion and Science – Uplifting Words
[6] An Ever-Advancing Civilization: Science and Religion – The Bahá’î Faith
[7] Knowledge and the Covenant of Bahá’u’lláh: Invited Commentary – Bahá’í Library Online
[8] Knowledge and Civilization: Implications for the Community and the Individual – The Bahá’í World
[9] What Bahá’ís Believe – The Bahá’í Faith
[10] The Bahá’í Faith at a Glance – Bahá’ís of the United States
[11] The Bahá’í Faith and Christianity – Bahá’ís of the United States
Follow-Up Questions Proposed by Perplexity
- How does the religion of God view the role of knowledge in human development?
- In what ways does divine guidance support scientific discovery and truth-seeking?
- Why does ‘Abdu’l-Bahá consider knowledge a divine virtue and human perfection?
- How can the pursuit of knowledge align with spiritual principles according to Bahá’í teachings?
- What is the significance of justice and unity in fostering a culture of learning?
- Research Department of the Universal House of Justice. “Social Action.” Bahá’í Reference Library, August 2020. https://www.bahai.org/r/118263074. ↩
- ’Abdu’l-Bahá. Some Answered Questions. Bahá’í Reference Library. Accessed May 25, 2025. https://www.bahai.org/r/066346398. ↩
- Perplexity Pro. “The Relationship Between the Religion of God and the Human Pursuit of Knowledge.” Edited by Steve Bosserman. May 25, 2025. https://www.perplexity.ai/search/the-holy-see-has-consistently-qqzKpqGMQHSj1_xo1wEDog. ↩
Frameworks for Understanding the World 