Kamál, 16 ʼIzzat (Might), 182 B.E.
Social Action: Selected Themes Pertaining to Social and Economic Development
Quotes for Reflection:
We prescribe unto all men that which will lead to the exaltation of the Word of God amongst His servants, and likewise, to the advancement of the world of being and the uplift of souls. To this end, the greatest means is education of the child. To this must each and all hold fast. We have verily laid this charge upon you in manifold Tablets as well as in My Most Holy Book. Well is it with him who deferreth thereto. — Bahá’u’lláh 1
Question for Consideration
How does education of the child provide the greatest means “which will lead to the exaltation of the Word of God amongst His servants, and likewise, to the advancement of the world of being and the uplift of souls”?
Perplexity Pro Response 2
Education of the child is described in the Bahá’í Writings as the greatest means for advancing society, uplifting individual souls, and exalting the Word of God because it lays the foundation for both spiritual and material development, enabling every human being to realize their inherent potential and contribute meaningfully to civilization. [1]
Exaltation of the Word of God
Educating children builds the capacity to recognize truth, distinguish between right and wrong, and understand the teachings of religion in harmony with reason. When children are taught spiritual principles, moral conduct, and reverence for God from an early age, they become adults whose lives reflect and magnify divine teachings in society. This widespread understanding and adherence to the Word of God leads to its exaltation among all people. [1]
Advancement of the World of Being
Universal education empowers individuals to develop skills in both arts and sciences, contributing to material prosperity and innovation while anchoring progress in spiritual and ethical values. As each person’s capacities are cultivated, society benefits from a diverse range of talents, fostering collective advancement and solving complex challenges with both wisdom and compassion. Ignorance is cited as a barrier to unity and progress, and education systematically removes this barrier, creating the conditions for true civilization to flourish. [1]
Uplift of Souls
Education nurtures the soul by instilling virtues, moral strength, and the ability to independently investigate reality, moving individuals beyond superstition and prejudice. The Bahá’í Writings emphasize that knowledge is praiseworthy only when coupled with ethical conduct; otherwise, it can be harmful. An education that integrates spiritual, moral, and intellectual development uplifts individuals, leading them towards “abiding glory” and helping them attain the “perfections of humanity” as intended by God. [1]
Why Education Is the “Greatest Means”
- It ensures that future generations possess the knowledge and character required to establish justice, unity, and peace. [1]
- By elevating both material and spiritual civilization, education equips children to transform their communities and advance social well-being. [1]
- It fosters independent thought, shields individuals from harmful traditions, and builds resilience against forces of moral decline. [1]
- As every child becomes “a mine rich in gems of inestimable value,” education unlocks these hidden treasures for the benefit of all. [1]
In summary, education of the child is central to the Bahá’í vision for individual and collective advancement, as it harmonizes spiritual and practical knowledge, empowers service, and establishes the foundations for a just and flourishing civilization. [1]
Citations
Follow-Up Questions Proposed by Perplexity
- What role does independent investigation of reality play in child education?
- How does education help eliminate prejudice and foster unity?
- What are the dual knowledge systems of science and religion in education?
- How can education nurture the development of the life of the mind in children?
- What are consultative processes and their impact on child development through education?
- Research Department of the Universal House of Justice. “Social Action.” Bahá’í Reference Library, August 2020. https://www.bahai.org/r/595099590. ↩
- Perplexity Pro. “Education of the Child – The Greatest Means.” Edited by Steve Bosserman. September 21, 2025. https://www.perplexity.ai/search/we-prescribe-unto-all-men-that-VzchVJK.Toe3ppU9lBph8A. ↩
Frameworks for Understanding the World 