Harmony of Science and Religion
Truth is one. Any religious teaching that contradicts science is superstition. Any science without moral foundation is a danger to humanity. Both must be pursued together.
The Bahá'í principle of the harmony of science and religion rejects the notion that faith and reason are fundamentally opposed. Both science and religion, properly understood, are methods of investigating the same reality — the one through systematic empirical inquiry, the other through spiritual experience and the guidance of revelation. Truth is one; it cannot contradict itself.
'Abdu'l-Bahá was unambiguous: any religious belief that conflicts with the findings of science must be discarded as superstition. Religion that does not stand up to rational scrutiny is not true religion but human invention. At the same time, a science that operates without moral compass — that pursues knowledge for power alone without reference to justice or human dignity — is a danger to civilisation.
This principle has profound implications for education. Bahá'í curricula seek to develop both the rational and the spiritual capacities of students simultaneously, rejecting the false choice between scientific literacy and moral development.
In practice, this principle means that Bahá'í communities engage seriously with questions of development, public health, environment, and social organisation — bringing scientific knowledge and spiritual principles to bear together, rather than treating them as separate domains.
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Core Principles of the Faith
Progressive Revelation
God sends Messengers throughout history — Abraham, Moses, Buddha, Jesus, Muhammad, and Bahá'u'lláh — each bringing teachings suited to the age and capacity of humanity at that time.
Explore this principle →Oneness of Humanity
The human race is one. The rich diversity of cultures, races, and nations is a source of beauty. Prejudice in any form must be abandoned as a relic of an immature age.
Explore this principle →Equality of Women and Men
Women and men are equal before God. Until women participate fully in all domains of society, the world will not attain the peace and prosperity it seeks.
Explore this principle →World Order and Peace
Humanity is evolving toward a global civilisation. Just institutions — democratic, transparent, guided by collective decision-making — must be established at every level of society.
Explore this principle →Economic Justice
The extremes of poverty and wealth are unjust. Economic systems must be reformed to provide for all, while rewarding initiative and discouraging exploitation.
Explore this principle →Universal Auxiliary Language
The adoption of a universal auxiliary language would eliminate one of the great barriers to human communication and the unity of the world's peoples.
Explore this principle →Compulsory Education
Education is a fundamental right. Parents and society share the duty to ensure all children — regardless of gender or background — receive a full and meaningful education.
Explore this principle →Elimination of Prejudice
Racial, religious, class, and national prejudice must be overcome. Independent investigation of truth — not blind imitation — is the path forward.
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