Jamál, 10 Mashíyyat (Will), 182 B.E.
Social Action: Selected Themes Pertaining to Social and Economic Development
Quotes for Reflection:
The subjects to be taught in children’s schools are many, and for lack of time We can touch on only a few: First and most important is training in behaviour and good character; the rectification of qualities; arousing the desire to become accomplished and acquire perfections, and to cleave unto the religion of God and stand firm in His Laws: to accord total obedience to every just government, to show forth loyalty and trustworthiness to the ruler of the time, to be well wishers of mankind, to be kind to all.
And further, as well as in the ideals of character, instruction in such arts and sciences as are of benefit, and in foreign tongues. Also, the repeating of prayers for the well-being of ruler and ruled; and the avoidance of materialistic works that are current among those who see only natural causation, and tales of love, and books that arouse the passions.
To sum up, let all the lessons be entirely devoted to the acquisition of human perfections.
Here, then, in brief are directions for the curriculum of these schools. — ‘Abdu’l-Bahá 1
Question for Consideration
Summarize ‘Abdu’l-Bahá’s directions for the curriculum of children’s schools and offer questions to guide community members in its implementation.
Perplexity Pro Response 2
‘Abdu’l-Bahá’s directions for the curriculum of children’s schools emphasize spiritual, moral, and intellectual development. The most important elements are the training of behaviour and character; fostering a desire for personal accomplishment and excellence; steadfastness in faith and law; dedication to just governance and loyalty to rulers; goodwill, trustworthiness, and kindness toward all people. Additionally, the curriculum should include beneficial arts and sciences, foreign languages, prayers for the well-being of leadership and society, and avoidance of materialistic and passion-arousing literature. Above all, every lesson should aim for the acquisition of human perfections. [1]
Core Principles for Curriculum
- Place moral and character formation as the first priority, above academic subjects. [1]
- Strengthen qualities such as loyalty, trustworthiness, obedience to just authority, and service to humanity through lessons and school culture. [1]
- Integrate both spiritual and material sciences to foster balanced human development. [1]
- Include practical arts, technology, and foreign languages that benefit individuals and society. [1]
- Ensure prayers and devotional practices are fundamental to school life, nurturing spiritual consciousness. [1]
- Guard the curriculum against materialistic, sensual, or base literature that detracts from noble aims. [1]
Guiding Questions for Implementation
- How can lessons in the classroom cultivate virtues like kindness, trustworthiness, and service in children? [1]
- In what practical ways can teachers and mentors model and reinforce behaviour aligned with spiritual law and moral excellence? [1]
- Which arts, sciences, and languages are most beneficial for the children and community, and how can they be integrated? [1]
- What devotional practices (such as prayers) can be woven into daily school activities to strengthen spiritual identity? [1]
- How can parents, community members, and teachers consult together to uphold standards that avoid unwholesome or materialistic influences in the curriculum? [1]
- What approaches help ensure that every lesson, activity, and relationship in the school environment fosters human perfections and holistic well-being? [1]
These foundational directions and questions encourage a curriculum built on virtue, balance, and service, shaping individuals who strive to contribute meaningfully to the prosperity and unity of society. [1]
Citations
- Research Department of the Universal House of Justice. “Social Action.” Bahá’í Reference Library, August 2020. https://www.bahai.org/r/684491283. ↩
- Perplexity Pro. “Curriculum Guidelines for Children’s Schools.” Edited by Steve Bosserman. October 4, 2025. https://www.perplexity.ai/search/the-subjects-to-be-taught-in-c-wg0QvqUgRVa99Zxhd4KOSQ#0. ↩
Frameworks for Understanding the World 