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also acquire technical skills, and once the child becomes proficient in
such a skill, then let consideration be given to the child's own
preference and inclinations. If a child hath a liking for commerce, then
let him choose commerce; if industry, then industry; if for higher
education, then the advancement of knowledge; if for some other of the
responsibilities of humankind, then that. Let him be placed in the field
for which he hath an inclination, a desire, and a talent.

But the indispensable basis of all is that he should develop spiritual
characteristics and the praiseworthy virtues of humankind. This is the
primary consideration. If a person be unlettered, and yet clothed with
divine excellence, and alive in the breaths of the Spirit, that individual
will contribute to the welfare of society, and his inability to read and
write will do him no harm. And if a person be versed in the arts and every
branch of knowledge, and not live a religious life, and not take on the
characteristics of God, and not be directed by a pure intent, and be
engrossed in the life of the flesh--then he is harm personified, and
nothing will come of all his learning and intellectual accomplishments but
scandal and torment.

If, however, an individual hath spiritual characteristics, and virtues
that shine out, and his purpose in life be spiritual and his inclinations
be directed toward God, and he also study other branches of knowledge--then
we have light upon light:(14) outer being luminous, his private character
radiant, his heart sound, his thought elevated, his understanding swift,
his rank noble.

Blessed is he who attaineth this exalted station.

(From a Tablet--translated from the Persian) [76]

"77: The subjects to be taught in children's school are many, and for lack
of..."

The subjects to be taught in children's school are many, and for lack of
time We can touch on only a few: First and most important is training in
behaviour and good character; the rectification of qualities; arousing the
desire to become accomplished and acquire perfections, and to cleave unto
the religion of God and stand firm in His Laws: to accord total obedience
to every just government, to show forth loyalty and trustworthiness to the
ruler of the time, to be well wishers of mankind, to be kind to all.

And further, as well as in the ideals of character, instruction in such
arts and sciences as are of benefit, and in foreign tongues. Also,