Tolerance and Righteousness: Developing A Genuine Concern for Others
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"The purpose of religion is to establish unity and concord amongst the peoples of the world; make it not the cause of dissension and strife." (Tablets of Bahá'u'lláh revealed after the Kitáb-i-Aqdas)
In unity-a unity that embraces and honors the full diversity of humankind-all problems can be solved. When applied on a universal basis, the teaching that we should treat others as we ourselves wish to be treated, an ethic variously repeated in all the great religions, will undoubtedly reveal the salutary power of unity. (bahaiinternationalcommunity.org).
The building of a global society based on cooperation, reciprocity, and genuine concern for others is the ultimate expression of unified action. In short, the core spiritual values held in common by the world's religions contain within them the principal means for the reconciliation and advancement of the earth's peoples. Through these values and the commitment they inspire, "Minds, hearts and all human forces are reformed, perfections are quickened, sciences, discoveries and investigations are stimulated afresh, and everything appertaining to the virtues of the human world is revitalized." (Abdu'l-Bahá, The Promulgation of Universal Peace)
Education, then, emerges as an indispensable tool-a tool of active moral learning. To accomplish the broad objectives of ensuring the "full development of the human personality and the sense of its dignity" and promoting "understanding, tolerance and friendship among all nations, racial, ethnic or religious groups," education must strive to develop an integrated set of human capabilities-intellectual, artistic, social, moral and spiritual. There is no other way to raise up positive social actors who are builders of amity and agents of service and probity (bahaiinternationalcommunity.org).
Reflection Question: In what ways can we demonstrate tolerance with how we perceive others, when their ideas differ from that of our own?
In this meetup discussion, let’s consult on actions we can take to guide humanity on a better path of unity and harmony. We know that change is inevitable. How might we contribute to this ever-advancing civilization together? Baha’is are working through-out the world to advance the whole of humankind toward unity and justice. People of all backgrounds, religions, and beliefs are welcome.