A Compilation on Bahai Education Part 2

It is inc.u.mbent upon the children to exert themselves to the utmost in acquiring the art of reading and writing.... Writing skills that will provide for urgent needs will be enough for some; and then it is better and more fitting that they should spend their time in studying those branches of knowledge which are of use.

As for what the Supreme Pen hath previously set down, the reason is that in every art and skill, G.o.d loveth the highest perfection.

(From a Tablet-translated from the Persian) [18]

"19: In the treasuries of the knowledge of G.o.d there lieth concealed a..."

In the treasuries of the knowledge of G.o.d there lieth concealed a knowledge which, when applied, will largely, though not wholly, eliminate fear. This knowledge, however, should be taught from childhood, as it will greatly aid in its elimination....(1)

("Epistle to the Son of the Wolf", p. 32) [19]

"20: It beseemeth ... the ... officials of the Government to convene a gathering and..."

It beseemeth ... the ... officials of the Government to convene a gathering and choose one of the divers languages, and likewise one of the existing scripts, or else to create a new language and a new scripts or else to create a new language and a new script to be taught children in schools throughout the world. They would, in this way, be acquiring only two languages, one their own native tongue, the other the language in which all the peoples of the world would converse. Were men to take fast hold on that which hath been mentioned, the whole earth would come to be regarded as one country, and the people would be relieved and freed from the necessity of acquiring and teaching different languages....

("Epistle to the Son of the Wolf", p. 138) [20]

"21: Teach ye your children the verses that have been divinely revealed, that..."

Teach ye your children the verses that have been divinely revealed, that they may recite them in most melodious voices. This is what hath been set down in His mighty Book.

(From a Tablet-translated from the Arabic) [21]

"22: Teach your children that which hath been sent down from the heaven of..."

Teach your children that which hath been sent down from the heaven of majesty and power that they may recite the Tablets of the Merciful in the halls of the Ma_sh_riqu'l-A_dh_kars in most melodious tones....

("Kitab-i-Aqdas"-provisional translation from the Arabic) [22]

"23: At the outset of every endeavour, it is inc.u.mbent to look to the end of..."

At the outset of every endeavour, it is inc.u.mbent to look to the end of it. Of all the arts and sciences, set the children to studying those which will result in advantage to man, will ensure his progress and elevate his rank. Thus the noisome odours of lawlessness will be dispelled, and thus through the high endeavours of the nation's leaders, all will live cradled, secure and in peace.

The Great Being saith: The man of consummate learning and the sage endowed with penetrating wisdom are the two eyes to the body of mankind. G.o.d willing, the earth shall never be deprived of these two greatest gifts....

("Tablets of Baha'u'llah Revealed after the Kitab-i-Aqdas", pp. 16871) [23]

"24: As to the children: We have directed that in the beginning they should be..."

As to the children: We have directed that in the beginning they should be trained in the observances and laws of religion; and thereafter, in such branches of knowledge as are of benefit, and in commercial pursuits that are distinguished for integrity, and in deeds that will further the victory of G.o.d's Cause or will attract some outcome which will draw the believer closer to his Lord.

We beg of G.o.d to a.s.sist the children of His loved ones and adorn them with wisdom, good conduct, integrity and righteousness.

He, verily, is the Forgiving, the Clement.

(From a Tablet-translated from the Persian and Arabic) [24]

"25: O ?usayn! O thou Preceptor!..."

O ?usayn! O thou Preceptor!

From His Most Great Prison, the countenance of the Ancient of Days is turned towards thee, and He teacheth thee that which will draw thee nigh unto G.o.d, the Lord of mankind.

Blessed is that teacher who shall arise to instruct the children, and to guide the people into the pathways of G.o.d, the Bestower, the Well-Beloved.

(From a Tablet-translated from the Arabic) [25]

"26: Blessed is that teacher who remaineth faithful to the Covenant of G.o.d, and..."

Blessed is that teacher who remaineth faithful to the Covenant of G.o.d, and occupieth himself with the education of children. For him hath the Supreme Pen inscribed that reward which is revealed in the Most Holy Book.

Blessed, blessed is he!

(From a Tablet-translated from the Persian) [26]