Fidál, 19 Mashíyyat (Will), 182 B.E.
Social Action: Selected Themes Pertaining to Social and Economic Development
Quotes for Reflection:
Whilst in the Prison of ‘Akká, We revealed in the Crimson Book that which is conducive to the advancement of mankind and to the reconstruction of the world. The utterances set forth therein by the Pen of the Lord of creation include the following which constitute the fundamental principles for the administration of the affairs of men:
First: It is incumbent upon the ministers of the House of Justice to promote the Lesser Peace so that the people of the earth may be relieved from the burden of exorbitant expenditures. This matter is imperative and absolutely essential, inasmuch as hostilities and conflict lie at the root of affliction and calamity.
Second: Languages must be reduced to one common language to be taught in all the schools of the world.
Third: It behoveth man to adhere tenaciously unto that which will promote fellowship, kindliness and unity.
Fourth: Everyone, whether man or woman, should hand over to a trusted person a portion of what he or she earneth through trade, agriculture or other occupation, for the training and education of children, to be spent for this purpose with the knowledge of the Trustees of the House of Justice.
Fifth: Special regard must be paid to agriculture. Although it hath been mentioned in the fifth place, unquestionably it precedeth the others. — Bahá’u’lláh 1 2
Question for Consideration
What are Bahá’u’lláh’s “fundamental principles for the administration of the affairs of men” and how can one apply them?
Perplexity Pro Response 3
Bahá’u’lláh’s “fundamental principles for the administration of the affairs of men”—as revealed in the Crimson Book during His imprisonment in ‘Akká—are centered on universal peace, unity, education, social justice, and agricultural development. These principles can be applied both by individuals and societies to advance material and spiritual civilization. [1]
Five Fundamental Principles
Promotion of the Lesser Peace
The leaders of society are required to seek ways for nations to coexist peacefully and reduce military expenditures, since war is a root cause of suffering. [1]
Universal Language
A common language should be adopted and taught globally, fostering understanding and unity among all peoples. [1]
Fellowship and Unity
Every individual is urged to foster kindness, fellowship, and unity, transcending discrimination and prejudice. [1]
Support for Education
All, regardless of gender, are called to contribute a part of their earnings toward the education and upbringing of children, administered transparently in service to society. [1]
Special Regard for Agriculture
Agriculture is foundational for society’s prosperity and must be prioritized, even though listed last among these principles. [1]
Application in Daily Life
Promoting Peace
Advocate for peaceful solutions and policies in both local and international affairs. This reduces conflict and redirects resources to constructive ends. [1]
Education and Language
Support efforts in teaching and learning, especially initiatives making language learning accessible and promoting universal literacy. [1]
Fellowship and Service
Foster personal qualities of kindness, unity, and inclusion within communities, families, workplaces, and civil society. [1]
Economic Contribution to Education
Practice philanthropy by directing a portion of one’s resources towards institutions and programs that advance the education and well-being of children. [1]
Valuing Agriculture
Participate in or support sustainable agriculture, ensuring its development serves community needs and promotes social stability. [1]
Broader Bahá’í Principles
These principles are further supported by Bahá’í teachings on the harmony of science and religion, the necessity of consultation in decision-making, promotion of justice and voluntary sharing of wealth, and recognition of the organic unity and diversity within human society. [1]
Applying these teachings within family, community, and social structures contributes to the reconstruction and advancement of society. “The establishment of order in the world and the tranquillity of the nations depend upon it.” [1]
Follow-Up Questions Proposed by Perplexity
Practical questions can help one apply Bahá’u’lláh’s “fundamental principles for the administration of the affairs of men” to daily life by linking lofty ideals to specific actions and reflections. Here is a list of insightful questions, corresponding to each principle: [1]
Questions for Daily Reflection
Promotion of Peace
- “Are daily decisions, words, and actions fostering peace and reducing conflict—at work, home, and in the community?” [1]
- “How might resources be redirected from competition to cooperation?” [1]
Universal Language and Education
- “How can the value of universal communication and understanding be furthered in my environment?” [1]
- “Am I encouraging myself and others to learn languages that foster understanding and global unity?” [1]
Fellowship and Unity
- “Are my attitudes and behaviors strengthening fellowship, kindness, and unity in my relationships?” [1]
- “Am I challenging prejudice or promoting inclusivity and justice where I notice division?” [1]
Support for Education
- “How am I contributing to the education and development of children—either through financial means, volunteering, or advocacy?” [1]
- “Are resources in my possession used in ways that uplift others and serve the common good?” [1]
Priority of Agriculture
- “How does my lifestyle and consumption support local or global agricultural development and sustainability?” [1]
- “Am I aware of and acting to protect the environment and promote food security?” [1]
Additional Self-Inquiry
- “Does each decision reflect the well-being of humanity as a whole, not just personal gain?” [1]
- “Am I learning actively, seeking knowledge that benefits others, and sharing that learning?” [1]
- “Do my daily actions promote both material and spiritual development for myself and my community?” [1]
Considering these questions regularly supports turning principles into practical habits, fostering a life that promotes peace, unity, education, equity, and sustainability. [1]
Citations
- Research Department of the Universal House of Justice. “Social Action.” Bahá’í Reference Library, August 2020. https://www.bahai.org/r/860544231. ↩
- Bahá’u’lláh. Tablets of Baháʾ’u’ʾlláh, Revealed after the Kitáb-i-Aqdas. Translated by Habib Taherzadeh. 1st ed. Haifa: Bahá’í World Centre, 1978, 89-90. https://www.bahai.org/library/authoritative-texts/bahaullah/tablets-bahaullah/3#298892787. ↩
- Perplexity Pro. “Five Fundamental Administrative Principles of Bahá’u’lláh.” Edited by Steve Bosserman. October 13, 2025. https://www.perplexity.ai/search/whilst-in-the-prison-of-akka-w-sb6x5k6eRxK0YQgvEX.Bqw#0. ↩
Frameworks for Understanding the World 