A Brief Essay on Center and Periphery in Bahá'í Discourse
Behrooz Sabet
Indeed, the chief reason for
the evils now rampant in society is a lack of spirituality. The materialistic
civilization of our age has so much absorbed the energy and interest of
mankind, that people in general no longer feel the necessity of raising
themselves above the forces and conditions of their daily material existence.
There is not sufficient demand for things that we should call spiritual to
differentiate them from the needs and requirements of our physical existence.
The universal crisis affecting mankind is, therefore, essentially spiritual in
its causes. The spirit of the age, taken on the whole, is irreligious. Man’s
outlook upon life is too crude and materialistic to enable him to elevate
himself into the higher realms of the spirit. [1]
Shoghi Effendi
Reframing Social Principles:
Centering the Spiritual Core of the Bahá'í Faith in Modern Discourse
Historically, particularly
in the West, the social principles of the Bahá'í Faith—such as racial justice,
economic justice, and gender equality—have played a central role in teaching
and promoting the Faith. This approach has been effective and, at times,
successful in engaging in social discourse. However, social principles that
were once viewed as progressive have, over time, become widely accepted
societal norms. As a result, there is a growing need to reiterate the
importance of carefully framing these social teachings within the spiritual
foundation of the Faith. Without this framework, social teachings may risk
losing their deeper meaning and original source, as the core belief of the
Bahá'í Faith is that spiritual renewal is the true catalyst for social change
and the reconstruction of civilization.
Clearly, in the
social sphere and in collaborative efforts with governments, institutions, and
public policy initiatives, it is essential to present the Bahá'í perspective on
specific social issues with clarity, precision, and a focused approach to
ensure its relevance and transformative impact. However, in deeper discussions,
when a broader perspective on the Bahá'í worldview is explored, it is more
fitting to center the presentation of the Faith on its spiritual core, which
embodies the true essence and meaning of Bahá'u'lláh's revelation.
When progressive social teachings are discussed without the
spiritual context, they may lead to mere nodding approval, without inspiring
the deeper curiosity needed to recognize the true mission of its founder. Even more significantly, the way these
principles are conceptualized has, at times, led to their entanglement with
ideologies that diverge from the original spiritual, moral, and religious
context of the Bahá'í Faith. Furthermore, a Bahá'í
discourse focused primarily on social issues could give the misleading
impression that the Bahá'í Faith is merely a liberal social movement with
religious orientation, rather than a comprehensive, multifaceted spiritual path
with a global transformative vision aimed at creating profound changes in human
conduct.
How Virtues Lose Meaning Without a
Spiritual Core: The Case of Tolerance: A discourse can
stray from its spiritual foundation and universal perspective through loosely
connected ideas, shifting cultural trends, flawed ideologies, political
doctrines, and even academic theories that start with noble principles but veer
into misleading conclusions. When a discourse begins with a virtue—such as
justice, freedom, or equality—it can serve as a powerful rhetorical anchor,
giving the illusion of depth and legitimacy. Length and abstraction can make
ideas seem sophisticated, even if they lack logical rigor or practical
relevance. Many people resonate with the initial virtue, assuming that because
it started well, it must be valid throughout.
For example, tolerance exists both
as a spiritual
timeless virtue and as a social
principle with policy implications. The difference between the two lies in
their origin,
purpose, depth, and application. Both forms of tolerance are essential but
serve distinct
functions. Spiritual tolerance nurtures the soul and fosters deep
interpersonal harmony, while social policy
tolerance ensures legal fairness
and peaceful coexistence in diverse societies.
Tolerance as a spiritual timeless virtue is rooted in spirituality
and moral philosophy, often linked to a divine or
transcendent order. Found in religious and
philosophical traditions, it encourages individuals to cultivate humility,
patience, forgiveness, and respect for others' dignity.
Tolerance as a social principle with policy
implications is rooted in political
philosophy, law, and governance, primarily emerging from Enlightenment
ideas about pluralism and civil rights. It is designed as a pragmatic
approach to managing diverse
societies with competing interests.
However, when social
tolerance lacks a deeper spiritual or ethical foundation, it risks
leading to moral relativism, political coercion, or
unintended contradictions. If a discourse on tolerance is not
contextualized within a comprehensive spiritual worldview, it can
easily drift into incoherence or contradictions. It may
evolve into the notion that all beliefs, behaviors, and opinions must be
accepted equally, leading to moral
relativism, where even harmful or
irrational ideas are shielded from scrutiny under the guise
of “tolerance.”
When tolerance is interpreted as absolute
acceptance, it paradoxically enables
intolerance itself. Karl Popper’s paradox of tolerance explains that unlimited
tolerance ultimately leads to the rise of intolerance.
A
drift occurs when tolerance is mistaken for intellectual
passivity, treating all ideas as equally valid regardless
of evidence or logic. This reduces tolerance to an excuse
for anti-intellectualism rather than a principle
of mutual respect. The discourse may further equate
disagreement with intolerance, suppressing critical inquiry.
Instead of advocating for peaceful coexistence, it may
shift toward demanding positive affirmation of all beliefs
and behaviors, erasing the crucial distinction between tolerating
something and endorsing it.
Furthermore, the discussion can become detached
from real-world complexities, fostering the illusion that tolerance
alone can resolve all conflicts. This overlooks the reality
that social issues involve competing values—such as justice, security, and
the rule of law—which demand more than mere tolerance to
address. Without a well-grounded framework,
tolerance risks becoming an empty slogan, vulnerable to misuse
and contradiction.
For a healthy
civilization, tolerance must be grounded in both a spiritual
foundation—rooted in compassion, love, sincerity, unity, and above
all, a nonviolent culture of peace—and pragmatic
social policies, legal frameworks, and institutional regulations
that aim to prevent social conflict, foster political
harmony, and ensure legal protection. This balance ensures that
tolerance remains a force for justice and unity rather than an empty ideal or a
tool for suppressing truth and reason.
Center and Periphery: In any discourse, it is essential to
distinguish between the center and periphery of the subject. The concepts
of center and periphery are fundamental in religious, philosophical, and
scientific discussions, as they demonstrate how a central element serves as an
organizing, supportive, or governing force while influencing and connecting to
surrounding peripheral elements. This relationship is ubiquitous in nature,
from the microcosmic structure of atoms—where the nucleus dictates the behavior
of the electron cloud—to the vast expanse of the Solar System, where the Sun
provides gravitational stability and energy, guiding the orbits of the planets
in its periphery.
In religion, the center
refers to the core spiritual teachings and beliefs that form the foundation of
the faith. This includes divine principles, the nature of God or ultimate
reality, the purpose of life, spiritual growth, the connection with the divine,
and the like. The periphery, on the other hand, encompasses the broader social
and cultural applications of these core teachings. It involves how religion
addresses social issues, governs relationships between individuals, promotes
justice and compassion, and engages with the wider world. In essence, the
center focuses on spiritual truths and the relationship with the divine, while
the periphery deals with how those truths are lived out in the world.
Similarly, in the Bahá'í
context, the spiritual teachings of the Faith form the core, while its social
vision resides in the periphery. In other words, the spiritual center precedes,
and the social vision naturally emanates from it, with the inner essence
flowing outward. This structure ensures that the social vision aligns closely
with the intentions of Bahá'u'lláh. However, if this logical progression
is not followed, or if the spiritual center is not prioritized or fails to play
a central role in the discourse, the resulting social framework may fail to
reflect the deeper spiritual foundation and universal vision from which it
originates. It may also fail to reveal the spiritual bedrock upon which Bahá'í
civilization must be built.
Metaphysical Anxiety: The world is currently facing a
crisis of faith, values, and meaning, with many seeking a deeper approach that
recognizes spiritual voids as the root cause of numerous societal issues. As
societies modernize, spiritual engagement has notably declined, leading to a
profound sense of alienation and disconnection from both the divine and a sense
of purpose in life. This spiritual void is manifesting in various ways,
including societal fragmentation, moral and ethical challenges, and an
increasing search for meaning in a world that often prioritizes material
success over spiritual growth. In light of these changing times and emerging
realities, there is a growing need to present the Bahá'í teachings not merely
as principles for social reform but as a comprehensive framework for the
spiritual revival of humanity. Thus, Bahá'í discourse will have a broader and
more lasting impact if it addresses both the themes of spirituality and the
condition of the world that results from its absence.
A Basic Categorical Framework
Here are some potential
categories or thematic areas that enhance and clarify our value position on the
core spiritual foundation. These areas serve as frameworks for understanding
how spiritual principles provide insights into the true meaning and ultimate
purpose of the Bahá'í social teachings. By exploring these themes, we can
better articulate the connection between the spiritual foundation and the
transformative vision of the Bahá'í Faith.
1. The Spiritual
Foundations of the Bahá'í Faith
·
Bahá'u'lláh’s Claim and Vision: A candid discussion of Bahá'u'lláh's role as the promised figure in all
religious dispensations, including His unique position in the history of
religious revelation and His vision for a united global society.
·
The True Meaning of Religion: Exploration of the Bahá'í perspective
on religion, which is seen not as a mere set of rituals or beliefs, but as a
dynamic, transformative force guiding human progress toward unity, justice, and
peace.
o The Role of Religion in Individual and
Collective Transformation: A comprehensive look at how religion
serves not only as a source of personal guidance but also as a dynamic force
capable of transforming society and establishing the essential foundation for
civilization.
o The Chaos That Arises When the Light of Religion
is Extinguished: An exploration of the consequences when
spiritual principles are abandoned or disregarded, resulting in societal
instability, moral decay, and the fragmentation of human relationships.
·
The Importance of Placing God at the
Center of Our Worldviews: An emphasis on the central role of God in shaping individual and
collective perspectives, fostering a worldview where divine guidance informs
every aspect of life, from ethics to social structures.
·
The Spiritual Foundation: A Compelling Force for Unity and Peace: The ultimate goal of cultivating unity in the world and
establishing a culture of peace is fundamentally a spiritual process that
brings about transformative change in human character. A spiritual process is
central to changing human behavior toward others and fostering the recognition
of humanity as one. This spiritual awakening must carry “the compelling power
of conscience” for the ideals of unity and peace to take root. As ‘Abdu’l-Bahá
clearly states, “it is clear and evident that the execution of this mighty
endeavour is impossible through ordinary human feelings but requireth the
powerful sentiments of the heart to transform its potential into reality.” He
further emphasizes, “The power of conscience is therefore needed, and spiritual
sentiments are required, that souls may feel compelled to evince a goodly
character. It is our firm belief that the power of implementation in this great
endeavour is the penetrating influence of the Word of God and the confirmations
of the Holy Spirit.”[2]
·
The Transitory Nature of Life and the
Immortality of the Soul: Discussing the Bahá'í view of life’s temporal nature, the concept of the
soul, and the belief in its immortality, underlining the continuity of
spiritual growth beyond physical existence.
2. Methodological Foundations for Understanding and Conveying the Core
Spiritual Basis of the Bahá'í Faith
·
Science and Religion: Pillars of a
Spiritually Grounded Civilization
The harmony between science and religion as pillars of a true
civilization enriches the core spiritual foundation of the Bahá'í Faith,
providing a framework for understanding and addressing the material and
spiritual dimensions of human existence. Within the teachings of the Faith, the
integration of these two complementary forces is essential to fostering a
civilization that reflects divine principles while advancing human progress. By
bridging the empirical insights of science with the moral and ethical guidance
of religion, the Bahá'í perspective transcends the fragmentation often seen in
society, offering a balanced approach to life that nurtures both the soul and
the world. This synthesis not only facilitates material and technological
progress but also strengthens the spiritual foundation required to navigate the
complexities of contemporary challenges.
Central to this vision is a deeper understanding of spiritual renewal as
a transcendent force that reorients humanity toward higher principles, aligning
with the Faith's emphasis on unity, justice, and compassion. The integration of
science and religion is not merely an intellectual exercise but a
transformative process that enriches the Faith's social teachings, offering a
new paradigm for understanding the purpose and potential of human existence. As
humanity faces global challenges, the Bahá'í teachings emphasize the necessity
of a civilization rooted in both scientific innovation and spiritual clarity.
This integration of material and spiritual dimensions strengthens the core
spiritual foundation of the Baha’i Faith, inspiring a vision of a world where
progress is measured not only by technological advancement but by the moral and
spiritual development of society, ensuring the well-being and unity of all
peoples.
·
Unveiling the Uplifting Ethos of the Bahá'í Faith in Modern and
Scientific Dialogue:
A discussion of
the harmony between science and religion can be approached on several levels.
At the general level, it involves reviewing the historical relationship between
the two, exploring the factors that have caused periods of divergence or
convergence. The next level focuses on the philosophical underpinnings of
materialism and reductionism in human knowledge, which naturally point toward
the need for an integrative approach. Finally, the most significant aspect of
this discourse is to demonstrate how the Bahá'í worldview is reflected in
modern normative ethical and social discourses. In other words, it highlights
how the Bahá'í disposition, through its intrinsic values, has permeated and
influenced the constructive ethos of the time.[3]
·
Balancing Continuity and Change:
Harmonizing Timeless Principles and Social Teachings
Addressing the dynamic tension between upholding timeless spiritual
principles and adapting to the evolving needs of society, this discussion
illustrates how the foundation of Bahá'í belief rests on the interplay between
continuity and change.
Continuity refers to the enduring aspects of religious teachings, which
define all religions as components of the tree of life and as "the
changeless Faith of God, eternal in the past and eternal in the future."
Change, on the other hand, speaks to the evolving social conditions of
humanity, which allow for further growth and evolution. In every dispensation,
as new spiritual regeneration is revealed, humanity requires a favorable social
environment to enhance, reinforce, and foster the spiritual growth process.
Therefore, social teachings are not stand-alone principles but tools to
create a conducive environment for further spiritual development. Continuity
ensures order and stability, while change allows for the emergence of new
possibilities. These two forces coexist. Hence, while social change is both
essential and inevitable, it cannot find its true meaning outside the forms,
patterns, and structure of the spiritual core that binds the changeless Faith
of God.
3.
Challenge and Symptom of Spiritual Voids
The
concept of a spiritual void transcends the mere decline of organized religion;
it reflects a profound sense of alienation and emptiness that permeates the
heart of human society. This void emerges when the true meaning and spiritual
nature of life are ignored or dismissed, leaving individuals and communities
adrift in a loss of purpose and direction. Deprived of its transcendent
significance, life becomes fragmented, and the immense challenges facing
humanity appear insurmountable without a profound spiritual renewal. Such a
renewal must reach the innermost depths of human awareness and moral integrity,
rekindling a profound sense of interconnectedness, purpose, and responsibility.
When
this spiritual void permeates social behaviors, it manifests as moral decline,
breaking down the bonds that hold communities together and diminishing the
capacity for authentic relationships. Alienation becomes pervasive, separating
individuals not only from one another but also from their inner selves and the
divine source of meaning. In the absence of spiritual values, society succumbs
to materialism and self-interest, intensifying disconnection and diminishing
collective well-being.
·
Addressing the Global Ethical
Crisis
o The Ethical and Moral Vacuum in the World Today:
Identifying the current lack of strong ethical and moral guidance in many
aspects of life and exploring how the Bahá'í Faith provides a framework to
address this gap, emphasizing virtue, justice, and responsibility.
o The Need for Divine Standards: Arguing that
human civilization requires divine standards to restore balance and guide
ethical behavior, offering the Bahá'í teachings as a model for moral
decision-making in the modern world.
·
The Influence of Materialism
Analyzing materialism not only as a desire for material possessions but
as the underlying force shaping contemporary culture and values, revealing its
pervasive influence that has effectively made it the spirit of the age. The
Bahá'í teachings, offering a modern conception of religion while emphasizing
its essential unity with the spiritual foundation of religions of the past,
possess a unique explanatory power to address the pervasive influence of
unchecked materialism. That is to say, first, when materialism becomes
hegemonic, it can extend its rule over the totality of thoughts and behaviors,
dominating human priorities and overshadowing spiritual and moral dimensions.
Second, the Bahá'í teachings provide a counterbalance by emphasizing spiritual
growth and the well-being of humanity as foundational to a balanced and
harmonious civilization, where the synthesis of material and spiritual progress
fosters true prosperity, justice, and unity.
·
The Crisis of Alienation and Human
Identity
Examining the widespread sense of alienation where individuals feel
disconnected from their true selves, struggling to find meaning in a seemingly
indifferent or chaotic world. This crisis is characterized by a loss of
identity and purpose, leading to feelings of isolation and disorientation.
Exploring how Bahá'í principles of spiritual purpose aim to reorient the
foundations of civilization and revitalize culture with a new spiritual vision,
offering a broader transcendent perspective that guides individuals to
reconnect with their true selves and find direction in life.
Summary
While referencing social
principles is important, especially in social forums and international
settings, these discussions need to remain firmly rooted in the Bahá'í Faith’s
spiritual and moral framework. Highlighting modern social reform ideas is
valuable, and engaging in dialogue with them is essential. However, the Bahá'í
Faith's unique contribution to the discourse on social reforms draws from the
eternal wisdom of the past, recognizing the spiritual truths that have guided
humanity throughout history, ensuring that social reform is rooted in enduring
principles rather than fleeting trends. Moreover, the conversation should
emphasize that, amidst the current chaos and confusion in the world, a
spiritual rebirth is unfolding — one that aims to address not only the
superficial symptoms of societal disarray but also the deeper spiritual void at
the core of many global crises.
[2] Second Tablet
to The Hague, https://www.bahai.org/library/authoritative-texts/abdul-baha/tablets-hague-abdul-baha/
