Jamál, 03 Mashíyyat (Will), 182 B.E.
Social Action: Selected Themes Pertaining to Social and Economic Development
Quotes for Reflection:
It followeth that the children’s school must be a place of utmost discipline and order, that instruction must be thorough, and provision must be made for the rectification and refinement of character; so that, in his earliest years, within the very essence of the child, the divine foundation will be laid and the structure of holiness raised up. — ‘Abdu’l-Bahá 1 2
Question for Consideration
What are the characteristics of a children’s school that make it “a place of utmost discipline and order, that instruction must be thorough, and provision must be made for the rectification and refinement of character?”
Perplexity Pro Response 3
A children’s school that is “a place of utmost discipline and order, with thorough instruction and provision for rectification and refinement of character” should display several key characteristics rooted in both the spiritual and practical dimensions of education. [1]
Discipline and Order
- The environment of the school is peaceful, well-organized, and structured to support learning and growth. [1]
- Activities and routines are established so that students feel secure and focused, reinforcing the value of attention and effort. [1]
- Discipline is not enforced through fear or excessive control, but cultivated through positive reinforcement, example, and loving guidance. [1]
Thorough Instruction
- Lessons are comprehensive, embracing both spiritual and material subjects, and aim to equip students with knowledge and practical skills. [1]
- Teachers are well-trained, knowledgeable, and devoted to the welfare and progress of the children. [1]
- The curriculum fosters mastery of reading, writing, sciences, arts, and crafts, as well as reflection on noble ideals and values. [1]
Rectification and Refinement of Character
- Moral and ethical education stands at the forefront, ensuring that good behavior and high character precede purely academic accomplishment. [1]
- Training is directed to the development of virtues such as honesty, patience, compassion, service, and unity. [1]
- Children are encouraged to uplift themselves and contribute constructively to society, combining inner qualities with outer skills. [1]
Spiritual Foundation and Community
- The divine foundation within each child is nurtured through teaching about spiritual truths and loving reverence for God. [1]
- Lessons include prayers, religious studies, and opportunities to reflect and practice spiritual virtues in daily life. [1]
- Collaboration and inclusivity are promoted, honoring the diversity of every child while building unity among the school community. [1]
Teacher and Curriculum Qualities
- Teachers should be models of pure conduct, capable in their knowledge, and distinguished by their devotion and faith. [1]
- The curriculum is chosen for its benefit to the child and to humanity at large, emphasizing sciences, arts, languages, spiritual teachings, and skills that serve society. [1]
Summary Table: Characteristics of an Excellent Children’s School
| Characteristic | Description |
|---|---|
| Discipline and Order | Peaceful, organized routine; loving guidance; positive reinforcement [1] |
| Thorough Instruction | Comprehensive lessons in both material and spiritual subjects; skilled teachers [1] |
| Refinement of Character | Priority to upright behavior, moral education, development of virtues [1] |
| Spiritual Foundation | Nurturing reverence, prayers, reflection, and divine teachings [1] |
| Community and Inclusivity | Diverse yet unified; building capacity for service and knowledge [1] |
In summary, a children’s school manifesting these attributes becomes a foundation for holistic learning, character building, and social advancement, raising up children who are both knowledgeable and virtuous, prepared to serve humanity. [1]
Follow-Up Questions Proposed by Perplexity
Several thoughtful follow-up questions can lead to further insights on children’s schools characterized by discipline, thorough instruction, and character development. [1]
Questions About Environment and Practice
- How do daily routines and the school environment foster discipline and order among students? [1]
- What strategies do teachers use to balance firmness and loving guidance in classroom management? [1]
- In what ways is thoroughness in instruction ensured across different subjects and age groups? [1]
Questions About Curriculum and Goals
- Which subjects and activities are prioritized to promote both academic and spiritual excellence? [1]
- How is the curriculum adapted to address the moral and ethical needs of children in today’s society? [1]
- What measures are taken to constantly evaluate and improve the effectiveness of educational programs? [1]
Questions About Character Building
- What specific practices or programs support the rectification and refinement of character? [1]
- How are virtues such as honesty, compassion, and unity modeled and reinforced by staff and students? [1]
- How is progress in character development observed and assessed? [1]
Questions About Inclusivity and Community
- How does the school foster a sense of community and belonging among children from diverse backgrounds? [1]
- In what ways are parents and families involved in supporting the goals of discipline, thorough instruction, and character formation? [1]
These questions support deeper exploration of the practical, philosophical, and spiritual dimensions of holistic childhood education. [1]
Citations
- Research Department of the Universal House of Justice. “Social Action.” Bahá’í Reference Library, August 2020 https://www.bahai.org/r/771917480. ↩
- ’Abdu’l-Bahá. Selections from the Writings of ʻAbduʼl-Bahá. Translated by Marzieh Gail. Reprint. Wilmette, Illinois: Bahá’í Publishing Trust, 1996, 137. https://www.bahai.org/r/488610980. ↩
- Perplexity Pro. “Characteristics of Children’s Schools.” Edited by Steve Bosserman. September 27, 2025. https://www.perplexity.ai/search/it-followeth-that-the-children-ra6zFZ18S1Wa0NfJYtkF5w#0. ↩
Frameworks for Understanding the World 