“Regard man as a mine rich in gems of inestimable value. Education can, alone, cause it to reveal its treasures, and enable mankind to benefit therefrom.”
Bahá’u’lláh
Children are the future of the community; their spiritual education is seen by Bahá’ís as the most important and meritorious service. In light of this, the Bahá’í community offers classes for children at Bahá’í centres and other places, so that they are available to as many children as possible.
The writings of the Bahá’í Faith affirm that spiritual education is at the heart of an educational process leading to the upliftment and transformation of the human spirit.
Each child is unique, endowed by God with specific talents and faculties. The purpose of this class is to help children acquire spiritual qualities and righteous character, revealing those gems that lie dormant within them. Lessons include a variety of learning modes, memorisation of quotations, stories, games, songs and art.
Children should be instructed using an attitude of love and understanding, guiding their behaviour in order to create a joyful and disciplined learning environment, respecting each other’s nobility. Special training helps teachers to elevate their understanding of Bahá’í principles on education and to conduct classes with love and discipline.
Some of the spiritual qualities that are taught:
- Generosity
- Justice
- Kindness
- Unity
- Courage
- Truthfulness
- Trust in God
- Love
- Integrity
- Humility
- Service to humanity
