In The Secret of Divine Civilization we will study `Abdu'l-Bahá’s first extensive description of Bahá’í social teachings, reading it slowly over a period of seven weeks. Elaborating on principles that Bahá’u’lláh enunciated in His tablets to the kings and leaders of the world, the treatise describes the true nature of civilization and provides a blueprint for the “future reorganization of the world.” To develop the theme of universal peace, honest government, and religion as the true bases of world order, `Abdu'l-Bahá redefines the Islamic tradition that a learned person "must guard himself, defend his faith, oppose his passions and obey the commandments of his Lord."

Leaders, in particular, are called to a new standard of honesty and trustworthiness, a theme of particular interest during any election cycle. This course will thus look at the complementary processes of personal transformation and social development, leading to a reorganization of the world. It will also examine the book as an early example of public discourse and consider how we can use it to improve our own efforts in public discourse.

You may also be interested in "The magic touch of progress": 'Abdu'l-Bahá on Social Transformation—a free webinar with presentation by Necati Alkan, on Saturday, 27 March at 12 noon Eastern Time.