Bahá'í Faith

The Bahá'í Faith is a monotheistic religion that emerged in the 19th century in Persia (modern-day Iran). It was founded by Bahá'u'lláh (1817-1892), who is regarded as the latest in a line of messengers or prophets that includes Abraham, Moses, Buddha, Jesus, Muhammad, and others. Bahá'ís believe that Bahá'u'lláh's teachings are a continuation of the divine guidance provided by these earlier religious leaders.

The Bahá'í Faith has grown into a global religion with followers in many countries. It places a strong emphasis on the unity of humankind, social justice, and the promotion of peace and harmony among all people. Bahá'ís are actively involved in various social and humanitarian activities aimed at addressing the world's challenges and promoting the betterment of society.

Key beliefs and principles of the Bahá'í Faith include:

Oneness of God

Bahá'ís believe in the existence of a single, all-powerful, and unknowable God who is the source of all creation.

Oneness of Religion

Bahá'ís believe that all major world religions are connected and have been successive stages in the spiritual evolution of humanity. They see religious founders and prophets as messengers from the same God who have brought teachings appropriate for the times in which they lived.

Oneness of Humanity

Central to Bahá'í teachings is the concept of the oneness of humanity. Bahá'ís believe that all people are equal and that racial, ethnic, and gender distinctions should be overcome.

World Peace

Bahá'ís are committed to the establishment of world peace and advocate for the resolution of conflicts through peaceful means. They believe that the unity of nations and the elimination of all forms of prejudice are essential for achieving lasting peace.

Universal Education

Bahá'ís emphasize the importance of education for all, including the elimination of illiteracy, and the promotion of knowledge and learning.

Elimination of Prejudice

Bahá'ís work towards the elimination of prejudice, discrimination, and inequality based on factors such as race, religion, gender, and nationality.

Independent Investigation of Truth

Bahá'ís are encouraged to independently investigate spiritual truths and to use reason and science as complementary tools to their faith.

Progressive Revelation

Bahá'ís believe in the concept of progressive revelation, which means that God has sent messengers throughout history to guide humanity's spiritual development. Bahá'u'lláh is the most recent of these messengers.

Administrative Order

The Bahá'í Faith has a unique administrative structure that includes elected councils at local, national, and international levels. This system of governance is designed to promote unity and consultation within the Bahá'í community.

Prayer and Worship

Bahá'ís engage in regular prayer and worship, often using writings from Bahá'u'lláh and other sacred texts. Worship services are held in Bahá'í centers and homes.

Bahá'í Holidays

Bahá'í holy days are determined according to the Bahá'í calendar, which is based on a lunar calendar with intercalary days added to synchronize it with the solar year. As a result, the dates of Bahá'í holidays shift each year on the Gregorian calendar.

Naw-Rúz (New Year's Day): Naw-Rúz, which means "New Day" in Persian, marks the Bahá'í New Year and is celebrated on the vernal equinox (usually March 20th or 21st). It is a time of renewal, reflection, and joy. Bahá'ís often gather for prayers, music, and festivities on this day.

Ridván Festival: The Ridván Festival is a twelve-day celebration that commemorates the period when Bahá'u'lláh declared His mission in a garden in Baghdad in 1863. The most significant days within Ridván are the First (April 21), Ninth (April 29), and Twelfth (May 2) days. The First and Ninth days are considered as holy days on which work is suspended, and Bahá'ís gather for special prayers and community activities. The Twelfth day, known as the "Most Great Festival," is a particularly joyous occasion.

Declaration of the Báb: On May 23rd, Bahá'ís commemorate the declaration of the Báb, the forerunner of Bahá'u'lláh. This day marks the beginning of the Bahá'í Faith, as the Báb proclaimed the coming of a new Messenger of God.

Ascension of Bahá'u'lláh: Bahá'ís observe the Ascension of Bahá'u'lláh on May 29th. It commemorates the passing of Bahá'u'lláh in 1892. Special prayers and gatherings are held to remember His life and teachings.

Martyrdom of the Báb: On July 9th, Bahá'ís remember the martyrdom of the Báb, who was executed in 1850. This solemn occasion is a time for reflection and prayer.

Birth of the Báb and Birth of Bahá'u'lláh: These two holy days celebrate the births of the Báb on October 20th and Bahá'u'lláh on November 12th, respectively. Bahá'ís observe these days with special prayers and, in some cases, community gatherings.

Day of the Covenant and Ascension of 'Abdu'l-Bahá: These two holidays, observed on November 26th and November 28th, respectively, are dedicated to 'Abdu'l-Bahá, Bahá'u'lláh's eldest son and the appointed Center of the Covenant in the Bahá'í Faith. Bahá'ís reflect on 'Abdu'l-Bahá's role in preserving and advancing the Faith.

The Fast (Nineteen-Day Fast): Bahá'ís observe a period of fasting each year from March 2nd to March 20th, leading up to Naw-Rúz. During this time, adult Bahá'ís abstain from food and drink from sunrise to sunset, engaging in spiritual reflection, prayer, and self-discipline.