You will note that the aspect of protecting the child from
making the wrong decision is not mentioned in any . . . quotations as a reason
for the law, [concerning parental consent] although it may well play a part in
the parents' decision as they have the obligation to consider the welfare and
happiness of their children at all times. However limited our understanding of
this and other laws given us by Bahá'u'lláh, we are assured that the divine
blessings await those who place their reliance in Him and obey His
commandments.
- The Universal House of Justice (From a letter dated July 19, 1972 ,
to two believers; Developing Distinctive Baha’i Communities, NSA of USA, 1998
edition)