With reference to Bahá’u’lláh’s command concerning the
engagement of the believers in some sort of profession: the Teachings are most
emphatic on this matter, particularly the statement in the Aqdas to this effect
which makes it quite clear that idle people who lack the desire to work can
have no place in the new World Order. As a corollary of this principle,
Bahá’u’lláh further states that mendicity should not only be discouraged but
entirely wiped out from the face of society. It is the duty of those who are in
charge of the organization of society to give every individual the opportunity
of acquiring the necessary talent in some kind of profession, and also the
means of utilizing such a talent, both for its own sake and for the sake of
earning the means of his livelihood. Every individual, no matter how
handicapped and limited he may be, is under the obligation of engaging in some
work or profession, for work, especially when performed in the spirit of
service, is according to Bahá’u’lláh a form of worship. It has not only a
utilitarian purpose, but has a value in itself, because it draws us nearer to
God, and enables us to better grasp His purpose for us in this world. It is
obvious, therefore, that the inheritance of wealth cannot make anyone immune
from daily work.
- Shoghi Effendi (From a letter written on behalf of Shoghi Effendi, cited by
the Universal House of Justice in the ‘Notes’ section of the Kitab-i-Aqdas)
