This profound lecture by His Holiness Pope Shenouda III explores literacy and adult education from spiritual, human, and national perspectives. He teaches that illiteracy is not only the inability to read or write, but a deeper ignorance that blinds the soul and limits human freedom. Education, therefore, is a path to enlightenment and growth.

📘 1. The True Meaning of Literacy

Pope Shenouda explains that literacy is not an end in itself, but a means toward knowledge—and knowledge leads to enlightenment. Illiteracy exists in many forms: intellectual, cultural, spiritual, and even technological, as those who cannot use modern tools may be considered illiterate today.

📖 2. The Value of Knowledge

Knowledge grants people freedom and understanding, allowing them to examine ideas and think independently. Without it, people become vulnerable to manipulation and lose the ability to choose wisely.

💡 3. The Dangers of Illiteracy

Ignorance gives rise to superstition and deception. It isolates people from progress and keeps them trapped in darkness, unable to discern truth or participate fully in society.

⛪ 4. The Church’s Role in Literacy

The Coptic Church, through the Bishopric of Social Services and the Bishopric of Youth, has been actively involved in teaching literacy and vocational skills. It cooperated with national programs, taught thousands of learners, and helped integrate them into productive life.

📚 5. Knowledge as a Spiritual Path

True science never contradicts faith. Every science that does not separate us from God is a blessed science. Miracles are not against reason but beyond it. Real learning leads the mind to God, while arrogance in knowledge leads to spiritual blindness.

🌿 6. Lifelong Learning

The Pope emphasizes that learning must continue throughout life. A day without learning is a lost day. Knowledge must be joined with humility, creativity, and service.

👩‍🏫 7. Education of Women

Pope Shenouda highlights the vital role of women’s education, praising Pope Cyril IV, who founded Egypt’s first girls’ schools. Educated women become a source of wisdom and national progress.

💎 Spiritual Message:

Knowledge and faith are divine lights that elevate humanity. To learn is to serve both God and others. Overcoming ignorance through education is a sacred duty for every believer.

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