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.
One of Bahá'u'lláh's prescriptions for world unity is the adoption of a universal auxiliary language — a second language, learned by all in addition to their mother tongue, that would enable direct communication across the boundaries of language. This is described not as the imposition of any one existing language, but the selection or creation of an auxiliary tongue to serve humanity as a whole.
The practical importance of this principle is evident: today, barriers of language prevent countless acts of cooperation, diplomacy, education, and scientific exchange. The enormous resources devoted to translation and interpretation could be redirected if a common auxiliary medium existed. More deeply, a shared language creates a sense of shared identity — the experience of being part of one human family.
Bahá'u'lláh left the choice of which language to adopt to the peoples of the world and their representatives. What He insisted upon was the principle itself: that such a language should be chosen and that its teaching should become a universal part of education everywhere.
In a country like Cameroon — with over 250 languages and two official colonial languages — the power of this principle is immediately apparent. The Bahá'í community's bilingual (English and French) activities model a small version of this principle, while pointing toward the broader vision of a humanity that can speak heart to heart across all its tongues.
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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 →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.
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 →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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