Sifter of Dust is debuting a new series today, focused on the social teachings of the Baha’i Faith.  We’ve spent a good bit of time on theology, and Dr Williams will continue to present and explain the theology and spiritual teachings of Baha’u’llah in his “Foundations of the Revelation” series. But too much focus on that can lead us to forget that a revelation is here to change the world!  It must be expressed in action, with practical lines of activity that lead to genuine social and community change over time.  Baha’u’llah expressed this clearly when He asked rhetorically-

Is not the object of every Revelation to effect a transformation in the whole character of mankind, a transformation that shall manifest itself both outwardly and inwardly, that shall affect both its inner life and external conditions? 

His religion was not just to be a source of individual inspiration, but to express itself in the outward aspects of life-

The religion of God and His divine law are the most potent instruments and the surest of all means for the dawning of the light of unity amongst men. The progress of the world, the development of nations, the tranquility of peoples, and the peace of all who dwell on earth are among the principles and ordinances of God.

Most social movements seek to change laws, or initiate other political or economic changes that they feel will be of benefit. Many of the social movements in our world are informed by enlightened principles and ideas, but their efforts are often hindered by “culture”- the fundamental beliefs of people about their lives and their relationships with others. Still, those social movements seek to impose change from the outside, often with an excessive focus on the material and economic aspects of the problem. The lack of agreement on basic principles means that public discussion degenerates into partisanship and needless bickering.  In the absence of a meaningful foundation, public discourse becomes about “spinning” information to suit a particular perspective, with the focus on how you say things and not what you are saying. 

Baha’u’llah’s Faith differs in its approach to solving problems in that it deals so profoundly with the inner aspect of human beings, and then uses the energy of that spiritual transformation to cause social change. Religion is the most profound aspect of “culture”, so a change in a religious perspective in a community means a change of culture.  That is why Baha’u’llah’s teachings are the most potent force for true and lasting social change that exists in the world today. Baha’u’llah’s Faith starts with the basic spiritual and moral principles and then applies those collaboratively with others to solve problems. Consultation, collaboration, unity, and a humble search for the truth become the culture. The Baha’i writings also give us guidance on the most effective approaches we can take to have the greatest impact.

So much of the Baha’i Faith is about true social transformation that the “How to Save the World” series will be a broad one. We will use it as such a broad category to subsume many smaller categories, which we will then spin off in shorter and more limited series on those topics.  We hope you enjoy the series!