On Baha'i Scholarship: Greater Expectations
"Baha'i Scholarship is something unique carrying with it certain characteristics and requirements, making it somewhat of a hybrid, and different than scholarship as it may be identified in the non-Baha'i world. It is not something reserved for a selected few in the Faith, nor is it the exclusive domain of the educated, or the recognized, or self-appointed scholars. In general, pursuit of Baha'i Scholarship is open to everyone....
"...Baha'u'llah has expectations greater than education, logic, and argumentation alone, for those who would be scholars in His fold.
"This theme is further explained and expanded by the Universal House of Justice: '...scholarly endeavour should be characterized by the welcome it offers to all who wish to be involved in it, each in his or her own way, by mutual encouragement and cooperation among its participants, and by the respect accorded to distinguished accomplishment and outstanding achievement. The spirit and approach should be far removed from the arrogance, contention, and exclusiveness which have too often sullied the name of scholarship in the wider society, and which have created barriers to the sound development of this worthy pursuit.' (Letter from The Universal House of Justice To selected National Spiritual Assemblies 10 February 1995)"
Loren, "Scholarship in the Baha'i Faith"
1 comment:
I can appreciate the compassionate approach to Baha'i scholarship that the Faith advocates. It is not just to become knowledgeable, but to find a way to humbly use what is learned to facilitate learning and knowledge in others.
And, always keep in mind, many of us will spend decades just making soup, caring for a family. Still, we can hold a book while stirring the soup.
Post a Comment