Jamál, 19 Núr (Light), 182 B.E.
Social Action: The Nature of Bahá’í Social and Economic Development
Quotes for Reflection:
The world of politics is like the world of man; he is seed at first, and then passes by degrees to the condition of embryo and foetus, acquiring a bone structure, being clothed with flesh, taking on his own special form, until at last he reaches the plane where he can befittingly fulfill the words: “the most excellent of Makers.” Just as this is a requirement of creation and is based on the universal Wisdom, the political world in the same way cannot instantaneously evolve from the nadir of defectiveness to the zenith of rightness and perfection. Rather, qualified individuals must strive by day and by night, using all those means which will conduce to progress, until the government and the people develop along every line from day to day and even from moment to moment. — ‘Abdu’l-Bahá 1 2
Question for Consideration
What are examples of “means which will conduce to progress” that “qualified individuals must strive by day and by night” to apply “until the government and the people develop along every line from day to day and even from moment to moment?“
Perplexity Pro Response 3
‘Abdu’l-Bahá’s analogy likening the development of the political world to the gradual maturation of the human being emphasizes that progress in governance and society is a cumulative, organic process. The “means which will conduce to progress” that “qualified individuals must strive by day and by night” to apply are wide-ranging, encompassing both material and spiritual dimensions, and are rooted in principles of justice, knowledge, and unity. Drawing from the Bahá’í Writings and authoritative commentary, the following are key examples and categories of such means:
Advancement of Knowledge and Education
Universal Access to Knowledge
Ensuring that all people have access to education and the means to acquire knowledge is fundamental. The perpetuation of ignorance is described as a grievous form of oppression that reinforces prejudice and impedes the realization of the oneness of humanity. Participation in the generation, application, and diffusion of knowledge is a responsibility for all [1].
Promotion of Useful Sciences and Arts
Encouraging the study and application of sciences, arts, and crafts that benefit humanity, as well as supporting moral and academic education for all, including women and marginalized groups [2].
Establishment of Educational Institutions
Founding schools, literacy programs, and moral education classes that serve the needs of the community and foster both material and spiritual development [2].
Social and Economic Development
Improvement of Material Conditions
Initiatives such as agricultural development, health programs, economic projects, and the establishment of philanthropic institutions are means by which society can progress materially and socially [2].
Empowerment and Capacity Building
Social action should aim to build capacity within populations to participate in creating a better world, beginning with modest, grassroots initiatives that grow organically as capacity increases [2].
Promotion of Industry, Trade, and Agriculture
Exerting effort in developing industry, commerce, and agriculture as a foundation for collective prosperity [2].
Cultivation of Virtues and Moral Character
Refinement of Character and Manners
Striving to develop virtues such as justice, honesty, love, unity, and service to humanity is essential for both individuals and society as a whole [2].
Promotion of Justice and Equity
Justice is described as the “light of men” and the foundation of unity and peace. Efforts to ensure justice and impartiality in all dealings are central to progress [2].
Fostering Unity and Collaboration
Promotion of the Oneness of Humanity
The principle of the oneness of mankind is the pivot of Bahá’í teachings. Efforts must be made to eliminate prejudice, promote unity, and foster cooperation and mutual aid at all levels of society [2].
Consultation and Collective Decision-Making
Utilizing consultation as a method for collective deliberation and decision-making, ensuring that all voices are heard and that decisions reflect the needs of the community [2].
Non-Partisan Social Engagement
While avoiding partisan political involvement, individuals are encouraged to participate in social movements and activities that promote unity, justice, and the betterment of society, provided these are free from partisanship and are devoted to the interests of all humanity [3].
Harmonizing Material and Spiritual Progress
Integration of Spiritual and Material Civilization
True progress requires the harmonization of material advancement with spiritual values. Material civilization alone cannot ensure happiness; it must be guided by moral and spiritual principles [2].
Service to Humanity
Dedicating oneself to the service of the entire human race, promoting the best interests of all peoples, and laboring for the general good are repeatedly emphasized as means of progress [2].
Participation in Social Action and Community Building
Grassroots Initiatives
Social action can range from informal, small-scale efforts to more complex development programs, always aiming to apply spiritual principles to practical needs—such as health, education, agriculture, and environmental protection [2].
Community Development
Building vibrant, united communities through activities such as children’s classes, junior youth groups, and collective worship, which foster social consciousness and capacity for further social action [2].
Obedience to Law and Constructive Engagement with Society
Obedience to Government and Laws
Bahá’ís are enjoined to obey the laws of the land and to avoid rebellion or partisan conflict, while working constructively within society for its betterment [4].
Engagement with Progressive Social Movements
Participation in conferences, committees, and activities that align with the teachings of unity and justice is encouraged, provided such involvement remains non-partisan and in service of the common good [3].
Summary Table: Key Means for Progress
| Category | Examples of Means |
|---|---|
| Knowledge & Education | Universal education, moral training, scientific advancement |
| Social & Economic Development | Health programs, agriculture, industry, philanthropy |
| Virtues & Moral Character | Justice, honesty, unity, service |
| Unity & Collaboration | Elimination of prejudice, consultation, mutual aid |
| Material & Spiritual Harmony | Integration of spiritual values with material progress |
| Social Action & Community Building | Grassroots projects, community development, capacity building |
| Law & Social Engagement | Obedience to law, non-partisan engagement, support for just social movements |
Conclusion
The “means which will conduce to progress” are diverse and interconnected, requiring both individual and collective effort, and encompassing every aspect of human life—intellectual, material, moral, and spiritual. Progress is achieved not through sudden transformation, but through sustained, systematic action rooted in principles of justice, unity, knowledge, and service, applied by qualified individuals and communities striving together for the betterment of all [2].
Citations
[1] The Individual and Society: Quotations – The Bahá’í Faith
[3] Political Non-Involvement and Obedience to Government – Bahá’í Library Online
[5] ‘The magic touch of progress’: ‘Abdu’l-Baha on Social Transformation (PDF) – Wilmette Institute
[6] Good Character Must Be Taught to Children – BahaiTeachings.org
[8] Baha’i Quotations on Environment and Sustainable Development – International Environment Forum
Follow-Up Approaches Proposed by Perplexity
- Identify practical steps for community capacity building and participation.
- Explore ways to integrate spiritual principles in governance.
- Investigate methods for fostering education and knowledge dissemination.
- Examine approaches to promote social justice and equity systematically.
- Analyze strategies for sustained collaboration between government and citizens.
- Research Department of the Universal House of Justice. “Social Action.” Bahá’í Reference Library, August 2020. https://www.bahai.org/r/916370219. ↩
- ’Abdu’l-Bahá. The Secret of Divine Civilization. Translated by Marzieh Gail. 2nd Edition | Reprint. Wilmette, Ill: Baháʾí Publishing Trust, 1975, 124-125. https://www.bahai.org/r/860283788. ↩
- Perplexity Pro. “Examples of “Means Which Will Conduce to Progress” in the Political and Social Development of Society.” Edited by Steve Bosserman. June 21, 2025. https://www.perplexity.ai/search/the-world-of-politics-is-like-Xh3mbSSuTFWhF87HCwF02Q. ↩
Frameworks for Understanding the World 