The purpose of religion is to bring about fellowship and harmony among people:
“The fundamental purpose animating the Faith of God and His religion is to safeguard the interests and promote the unity of the human race, and to foster the spirit of love and fellowship among men.”
Bahá’u’lláh also says:
“All men have been created to carry forward an ever-advancing civilization. The Almighty beareth Me witness: To act like the beasts of the field is unworthy of man. Those virtues that befit his dignity are forbearance, mercy, compassion and loving-kindness towards all the peoples and kindreds of the earth.”
True civilization is based on the laws and teachings of God, and is spiritual. For such a civilization to emerge requires that individuals dedicate themselves to serving others in the light of divine principles:
“Do not busy yourselves in your own concerns; let your thoughts be fixed upon that which will rehabilitate the fortunes of mankind and sanctify the hearts and souls of men. This can best be achieved through pure and holy deeds, through a virtuous life and goodly behavior... Cleave unto righteousness.”
Education is an important aspect of human progress, because it helps to ensure that people acquire the outlook and skills necessary to contribute to an ever progressing society. Education should include moral issues as well as intellectual knowledge. As is stated in the Bahá’í writings:
“It is incumbent upon the friends of God to exert such an effort and strive with such eagerness to promote Divine Knowledge, culture and the sciences, that erelong those who are schoolchildren today will become the most erudite of all the fraternity of the wise. This is a service rendered unto God Himself, and it is one of His inescapable commandments.”
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