Istijlál, 07 Mashíyyat (Will), 182 B.E.
Social Action: Selected Themes Pertaining to Social and Economic Development
Quotes for Reflection:
Certainly, certainly, neglect not the education of the children. Rear them to be possessed of spiritual qualities, and be assured of the gifts and favours of the Lord. — ‘Abdu’l-Bahá 1
Question for Consideration
How can children be reared “to be possessed of spiritual qualities, and be assured of the gifts and favours of the Lord?”
Perplexity Pro Response 2
Children can be reared “to be possessed of spiritual qualities, and be assured of the gifts and favours of the Lord” by providing them with an education that emphasizes both moral character and spiritual development, integrated with intellectual and practical skills. This education must begin at an early age and should focus on cultivating virtues alongside academic achievement. [1]
Foundations of Spiritual Education
Educating children in spiritual qualities involves fostering virtues such as kindness, honesty, justice, and service to others through family example, structured classes, and participation in community life. Abdu’l-Bahá emphasizes that “good behaviour and high moral character must come first, for unless character be trained, acquiring knowledge will only prove injurious.” Thus, moral formation should be the priority, with knowledge acquisition serving these higher aims. [1]
Methods to Cultivate Spiritual Qualities
- Establish schools and environments that prioritize moral education and upright conduct before purely academic subjects. [1]
- Encourage children to reflect on their actions, consult with others, and practice virtues in daily life. [1]
- Involve children in acts of service, devotionals, and inclusive community gatherings that promote harmony and collective worship. [1]
- Teach children the importance of integrating both religious values and scientific understanding, reinforcing the harmony between true faith and reason. [1]
Assuring Gifts and Favours of the Lord
- Provide opportunities for children to develop their spiritual perception through prayer, meditation, and understanding the teachings of God. [1]
- Encourage children to “master every kind of learning…that through the favouring grace of God, the heart of each one may become even as a mirror disclosing the secrets of the universe”. [1]
- Create a nurturing, loving environment where children are encouraged to investigate truth independently, cherish knowledge, and serve humanity—the foundation for receiving divine confirmations. [1]
- Ensure equal access to education for all children regardless of gender or social status, recognizing that every child is a “mine rich in gems of inestimable value.” Education reveals these spiritual treasures, unlocking the potential for spiritual gifts and blessings. [1]
The Role of Community and Family
- Parents, teachers, and the community must work together to uphold high standards of behavior, faith, and discipline, setting examples and offering ongoing encouragement. [1]
- Special emphasis is placed on the education of girls, as mothers are the “first teachers,” deeply influencing the lifelong spiritual development of future generations. [1]
- Collective and regular acts of worship within the family and broader community cultivate a devotional atmosphere, reinforcing spiritual identity and assurance of God’s gifts. [1]
By rooting education in spiritual principles, prioritizing moral excellence, and fostering a sense of service and unity, children become possessed of spiritual qualities and recipients of divine favors, prepared for lifelong growth and contribution to society. [1]
Follow-Up Questions Proposed by Perplexity
Reflective questions can provide parents with deeper insight into how to rear children “to be possessed of spiritual qualities” by helping them evaluate their approach, attitudes, and everyday practices in family life and education.[1]
Questions About Family Example
- What personal spiritual qualities do parents themselves strive to embody, and how do their actions reflect these for their children? [1]
- How are virtues like honesty, kindness, and justice modeled in daily family interactions and responses to challenges? [1]
Questions About Environment and Curriculum
- Is the home environment infused with opportunities for prayer, reflection, and the discussion of spiritual concepts that nurture character? [1]
- Are children exposed to teachings and stories—both sacred and scientific—that stimulate a love of learning and a desire to serve others? [1]
Questions on Support and Empowerment
- In what ways are children encouraged to investigate truth independently and make decisions based on consultation and reflection? [1]
- Are parents helping children develop resilience, empathy, and the capacity for service, both within the family and the larger community? [1]
Questions On Equality and Inclusivity
- How is equal importance placed on the education and spiritual development of both sons and daughters, recognizing the vital role of mothers? [1]
- Are the spiritual gifts and talents of each child being identified and nurtured, regardless of background, abilities, or status? [1]
Answering these questions can guide parents to create a thoughtful and purposeful foundation for the spiritual upbringing of their children, enabling them to develop spiritual qualities and become channels for the gifts and favours of the Lord. [1]
Citations
- Research Department of the Universal House of Justice. “Social Action.” Bahá’í Reference Library, August 2020. https://www.bahai.org/r/771917410. ↩
- Perplexity Pro. “Rearing Children to Be Possessed of Spiritual Qualities.” Edited by Steve Bosserman. October 1, 2025. https://www.perplexity.ai/search/certainly-certainly-neglect-no-G9vam9oSQWaRVdh_r0dI5A#0. ↩
Frameworks for Understanding the World 