Baha'u'llah & 'Abdu'l-Baha Warn: Unchecked Materialism Hinders Spiritual Growth
Baha'u'llah and 'Abdu'l-Baha, the founders of the Baha'i Faith, have warned about the dangers of unchecked materialism. They taught that while wealth can bring comfort, it can also be a barrier to spiritual growth and happiness.
Baha'u'llah cautioned that riches can hinder communion with God and spiritual progress. He advised that true happiness comes not from material possessions, but from spiritual wealth. 'Abdu'l-Baha echoed this, stating that material progress must be accompanied by spiritual progress for a balanced, flourishing civilization. He compared this to a bird needing two wings to fly - physical power and material civilization being one wing, and spiritual power and divine civilization the other. Material wealth can contribute to happiness when it solves problems associated with poverty, but it can also lead to conditions like affluenza, causing depression, anxiety, and addiction among the very rich. A narrow focus on industrialization, technology, and consumerism has become deeply rooted in society, often at the expense of spiritual growth. A comprehensive approach to happiness must consider cultural practices that nurture the soul's ability to radiate joy and contentment.
In essence, the Baha'i teachings emphasize the importance of balance between material and spiritual progress. While wealth can bring comfort, it should not be pursued at the expense of spiritual growth. A holistic approach to happiness, considering both material and spiritual aspects, is key to a flourishing civilization.
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