Reframing Social Principles: Centering the
Spiritual Core of the Bahá'í Faith in Modern 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
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.
·
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.
·
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 Interplay of Individual
Transformation, Civilization, and Family Life: Emphasizing that human nature is
inherently spiritual, the Bahá'í teachings affirm that the purpose and meaning
of life are primarily defined by spiritual progress, with material life serving
as a vehicle for actualizing this potential. This realization is reflected in
ethical behavior, love, and service to others. The spiritual foundation of
human existence teaches that individual transformation begins with personal
growth and extends outward in a reciprocal process that fosters collective
advancement. Within this process, the family serves as the most fundamental
environment for self-development, forming the foundation upon which social
institutions are built and shaping the course of civilization. The rise and
fall of civilizations are intrinsically linked to the spiritual vitality of
family life, which has historically functioned as the organizing principle of
human society. While civilizations evolve in response to changing
circumstances, the essential components of family life remain constant, as prescribed
in religious dispensations. Within this framework, the emphasis on the Bahá'í
Faith's spiritual teachings on marriage and family should demonstrate how these
essential components are preserved while simultaneously advancing a social
ethos rooted in equality and justice.
·
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. A significant
and perhaps unparalleled feature in religious history found in the Bahá’í
sacred writings is the strong emphasis on the transitory nature of material
life and the immortality of the soul. From guiding personal conduct to defining
the meaning of life, from encouraging rectitude of character to advising
leaders on principles of governance, and from ethical admonitions to
reflections on the nature of reality, both Bahá’u’lláh and ‘Abdu’l-Bahá
consistently return to this theme. What makes this emphasis unique is that,
while the Bahá’í teachings envision a practical and progressive civilization,
they firmly root it in the constant awareness that material existence is
fleeting and ephemeral—merely a means for the soul’s eternal journey.
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.
·
The Influence of the Bahá'í Worldview on Emerging Normative Thought
and Practical Life
A discussion of
the harmony between science and religion can be approached on multiple levels.
At the general level, it involves examining their historical relationship and
identifying the factors that have led to periods of both divergence and
convergence. A deeper level requires engaging with the philosophical
foundations of materialism and reductionism in human knowledge—leading to
frameworks that reveal the necessity of a more integrative approach between the
material and spiritual dimensions of civilization. Most importantly, this
discourse should illuminate how the Bahá'í worldview is increasingly reflected
in emerging normative values across religious, philosophical, and social
thought. That is to say, it brings to light how the Bahá'í disposition, grounded
in its intrinsic spiritual principles, has subtly permeated and influenced the
constructive ethos of our 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 is built upon the interplay
between continuity and change.
Continuity refers to the enduring aspects of religious teachings, which
define all religions as integral 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, reflects the evolving social
conditions of humanity, allowing for further growth and development. In every
dispensation, as new spiritual regeneration unfolds, humanity requires a
favorable social environment to nurture, reinforce, and sustain the process of
spiritual growth.
Thus, social teachings are not isolated or stand-alone principles but
rather instruments designed to cultivate conditions that foster ever-deeper
spiritual development. Continuity provides order and stability, while change
allows for the emergence of new possibilities. Therefore, while social change
is both essential and inevitable, it finds its true meaning only within the
framework of the spiritual core that upholds and binds the changeless Faith of
God.
In this
turbulent era of change and upheaval, one of the key challenges facing the
Bahá'í community is to demonstrate, both conceptually and practically, how the
vitality of Bahá'u'lláh’s Faith harmonizes the dual aspects of continuity and
change. Indeed, this challenge lies at the heart of ongoing Bahá'í discourse.
The Bahá'í community will increasingly be called upon to show how continuity
can be upheld without succumbing to reactionary or outdated interpretations of
the past, while also distinguishing itself from radical forces of disbelief
that seek to redefine human nature, infuse social order with a sacrilegious
character, and distort the very essence of human progress and happiness with
hollow theories and unfounded claims.
3. Challenge and Symptom of Spiritual Voids
The concept of a spiritual
void is more than 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.
In particular, several dimensions of
the spiritual void merit further exploration:
·
Addressing the Global Ethical Crisis
·
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.
·
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.
[1] The Universal House of Justice, Department of the Secretariat, 12
June 1984
[2] Second Tablet to The Hague, https://www.bahai.org/library/authoritative-texts/abdul-baha/tablets-hague-abdul-baha/
[3] Please see:
https://www.academia.edu/114616434/Religion_Science_and_Reason_The_Dynamic_Relationships
https://www.academia.edu/107925541/Bahai_Epistemology_from_the_Perspective_of_Abdul_Baha
