The Earth Is But One Country

What does the Baha'i Faith actually teach — and what does it ask of its followers? The earlier courses in this series introduced Baha'i history (Course 6: *Thief in the Night*), Baha'u'llah's mystical and doctrinal writings (Course 7: Hidden Words, Seven Valleys, Iqan), the Dawn-Breakers narrative (Course 8), and Baha'u'llah's theological framework (Course 9: Iqan, SAQ). This course turns to the *teachings themselves* — the principles, laws, and social vision that Baha'u'llah set forth for the transformation of human civilization. Three texts anchor the course. *Gleanings from the Writings of Baha'u'llah* — a selection compiled by Shoghi Effendi from Baha'u'llah's major works — is the primary source: Baha'u'llah in His own words on God, the soul, the purpose of religion, and the oneness of humanity. *Baha'u'llah and the New Era* by J.E. Esslemont — the standard introductory book, revised and approved by Shoghi Effendi — provides accessible explanations and context. *Lights of Guidance* — a topical compilation from the Baha'i writings and letters of guidance — serves as a reference, showing how the teachings apply to specific questions of daily life. Students leave knowing what Baha'u'llah taught, why it matters, and where to read more.