mblage of
God, and that unto them, beyond a peradventure, the portals of His grace
will open wide.

(From a Tablet--translated from the Persian) [72]

"73: God be praised that ye have succeeded in establishing a school in..."

God be praised that ye have succeeded in establishing a school in
Mihdiabad and are, with great energy and enthusiasm, engaged in educating
the children.

In this new and wondrous Cause, the advancement of all branches of
knowledge is a fixed and vital principle, and the friends, one and all,
are obligated to make every effort toward this end, so that the Cause of
the Manifest Light may be spread abroad, and that every child, according
to his need, will receive his share of the sciences and arts--until not
even a single peasant's child will be found who is completely devoid of
schooling.

It is essential that the fundamentals of knowledge be taught; essential
that all should be able to read and write. Wherefore is this new
institution most worthy of praise, and its programme to be encouraged. The
hope is that other villages will take you for a model, and that in every
village where there is a certain number of believers, a school will be
founded where the children can study reading, writing, and basic
knowledge.

This is what bringeth joy to the heart of 'Abdu'l-Baha, cheer and peace to
His soul.

(From a Tablet--translated from the Persian) [73]

"74: The method of instruction which ye have established, beginning with
proofs..."

The method of instruction which ye have established, beginning with proofs
of the existence of God and the oneness of God, the mission of the
Prophets and Messengers and Their teachings, and the wonders of the
universe, is highly suitable. Keep on with this. It is certain that the
confirmations of God will attend you. It is also highly praiseworthy to
memorize the Tablets, divine verses and sacred traditions.

Ye will surely exert every effort in teaching, and in furthering
understanding.

(From a Tablet--translated from the Persian) [74]

"75: As to the children: From the age of five their formal education
must..."

As to the children: From the age of five their formal education must
begin. That is, during the daytime they should be looked after in a place
where there are teachers, and should learn good conduct.

Here they should be taught, in play, some letters and words and a little
reading--as it is done in certain countries