Bahá'í teachings on personal morality

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While socially progressive, the Bahá'í teachings on personal morality and uncompromising

Bahá'u'lláh's teachings on individual morality start with the notion that there is only one God. Although religious teachings in relation to society at large must change to fit the needs of the times, there are certain fundamental moral and ethical teachings that are common to all faiths. Bahá'ís understand that these teachings are fundamental to the happiness and well-being of the human species and they do not change.

The moral code of the Ten Commandments, with its condemnation of murder, adultery, theft, lies, covetousness and disrespect for parents, can be found in all religions. Likewise, those commandments that define the individual's relationship with God have steadily emerged in the succession of Divine revelations. Bahá'u'lláh reaffirmed these laws and elaborated them. He not only condemned murder and lying but particularly censured backbiting. Gambling, assault, and trespassing are interdicted. So are alcoholic drinks and narcotic drugs--unless prescribed by a physician.

Honesty and trustworthiness are extolled in Bahá'u'lláh's writings. "Trustworthiness is the greatest portal leading unto the tranquillity and security of the people," Bahá'u'lláh wrote. "In truth the stability of every affair hath depended and doth depend on it."

Although the world's ever-shifting moral climate has led some modernists to reject or modify elements of God's historic moral code, Bahá'ís believe that an unbiased survey of contemporary conditions leads inescapably to the conclusion that society will only suffer if human morality is not revitalized. Worldwide corruption in business and government, the epidemic of sexually transmitted diseases, and the dissolution of family life provide concrete examples of the need to return to a high standard of individual conduct.

"Excerpted from The Bahá'ís, a publication of the Bahá'í International Community."

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Moral principles and spiritual training are stressed in Bahá'í classes for children, such as this session in Liberia.

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