power of intellectual investigation and research, which is an eternal gift
producing fruits of unending delight. Man is ever partaking of these
fruits. All other blessings are temporary; this is an everlasting
possession. Even sovereignty has its limitations and overthrow; this is a
kingship and dominion which none may usurp or destroy. Briefly, it is an
eternal blessing and divine bestowal, the supreme gift of God to man.
Therefore, you should put forward your most earnest efforts toward the
acquisition of science and arts. The greater your attainment, the higher
your standard in the divine purpose. The man of science is perceiving and
endowed with vision, whereas he who is ignorant and neglectful of this
development is blind. The investigating mind is attentive, alive; the
callous and indifferent mind is deaf and dead. A scientific man is a true
index and representative of humanity, for through processes of inductive
reasoning and research he is informed of all that appertains to humanity,
its status, conditions and happenings. He studies the human body politic,
understands social problems and weaves the web and texture of
civilization. In fact, science may be likened to a mirror wherein the
infinite forms and images of existing things are revealed and reflected.
It is the very foundation of all individual and national development.
Without this basis of investigation, development is impossible. Therefore,
seek with diligent endeavour the knowledge and attainment of all that lies
within the power of this wonderful bestowal.

("The Promulgation of Universal Peace: Talks Delivered by 'Abdu'l-Baha
during His Visit to the United States and Canada in 1912" (Wilmette:
Baha'i Publishing Trust, 1982), p. 50) [5]

From a Letter Written on Behalf of Shoghi Effendi

6: "...Baha'u'llah considered education as one of the most fundamental
factors..."

...Baha'u'llah considered education as one of the most fundamental factors
of a true civilization. This education, however, in order to be adequate
and fruitful, should be comprehensive in nature and should take into
consideration not only the physical and the intellectual side of man but
also his spiritual and ethical aspects.

(9 July 1931 to an individual believer) [6]

1.2 Characteristics of the "truly learned"

From the Writings of Baha'u'llah

7: "Happy are ye, O ye the learned ones in Baha. By the Lord! Ye are..."

Happy are ye, O ye the learned