The Baháʼí Faith is a relatively young religion, founded in the mid-19th century, which emphasizes the spiritual unity of all humanity and promotes a vision of world peace, justice, and equality. It teaches that all major religions share a common divine origin, and it seeks to unify humanity under one global society, based on principles of justice, harmony, and the equality of all people.

The religion’s founder, Baháʼu’lláh, declared that he was the latest in a series of divine messengers, including figures like Abraham, Moses, Buddha, Jesus, and Muhammad. Baháʼís believe that their religion is the latest stage in the continuous revelation of God’s will to humanity.

The Baháʼí Faith is unique in many ways, not least because of its emphasis on world unity, its progressive stance on social issues, and its global outlook. Despite facing persecution, especially in its birthplace of Iran, the Baháʼí Faith has spread throughout the world, with millions of adherents across different nations, cultures, and ethnic backgrounds.

Origins and Early History of the Baháʼí Faith

The Baháʼí Faith traces its origins to the mid-19th century in Persia (modern-day Iran), a time and place marked by religious fervor and social upheaval. The religion began with the teachings of two key figures: the Báb and Baháʼu’lláh.

The Báb (1819–1850)

The Baháʼí Faith began with the Báb (meaning “the Gate”), who was born Siyyid `Alí Muhammad in Shiraz, Persia, in 1819. The Báb declared himself a prophet in 1844, at the age of 25, proclaiming that he was the forerunner of a great Messenger of God who would soon appear. The Báb’s teachings focused on the spiritual renewal of humanity and the preparation for the coming of Baháʼu’lláh, whom he described as “He Whom God shall make manifest.”

The Báb’s message challenged the established religious and social order in Persia, which led to widespread opposition from the clerical and political authorities. His followers, known as Bábís, faced intense persecution, and thousands were killed. In 1850, the Báb himself was executed in the city of Tabriz at the age of 31, but his message continued to spread, setting the stage for the emergence of the Baháʼí Faith.

Baháʼu’lláh (1817–1892)

One of the most prominent followers of the Báb was Mírzá Husayn-‘Alí Núrí, later known as Baháʼu’lláh (meaning “Glory of God”). Born in Tehran in 1817, Baháʼu’lláh was from a noble Persian family with a long history of service to the government. Despite his privileged background, Baháʼu’lláh renounced a career in government service to pursue spiritual matters.

In 1863, while exiled in Baghdad, Baháʼu’lláh declared that he was the messenger foretold by the Báb. He proclaimed that he had come to unite all of humanity and to bring about an era of peace and justice. Baháʼu’lláh’s declaration marked the birth of the Baháʼí Faith, which quickly attracted a large following among the Bábís and others.

Despite his imprisonment, Baháʼu’lláh continued to write extensively, producing numerous letters, treatises, and books.

Baháʼu’lláh spent much of his life in exile, as the Persian and Ottoman authorities viewed his teachings as a threat to the established religious and political order. He was successively exiled from Persia to Baghdad, Istanbul, Edirne (Adrianople), and finally to the prison city of Acre (now in modern-day Israel), where he spent the last 24 years of his life. Despite his imprisonment, Baháʼu’lláh continued to write extensively, producing numerous letters, treatises, and books that form the core of Baháʼí scripture.

Baháʼu’lláh passed away in 1892, but by then the Baháʼí Faith had firmly taken root, and his followers were actively spreading his teachings across the world.

ʻAbdu’l-Bahá (1844–1921)

After Baháʼu’lláh’s death, his son ʻAbdu’l-Bahá (meaning “Servant of Baháʼu’lláh”) became the leader of the Baháʼí community. Born in 1844, ʻAbdu’l-Bahá had spent much of his life in exile alongside his father. He was well known for his wisdom, compassion, and leadership, and he played a critical role in ensuring the survival and spread of the Baháʼí Faith.

Under ʻAbdu’l-Bahá’s leadership, the Baháʼí Faith began to gain international recognition.

ʻAbdu’l-Bahá’s leadership marked a period of growth and consolidation for the Baháʼí community. He made extensive teaching trips to Europe and North America between 1911 and 1913, during which he spread the Baháʼí message of unity, peace, and justice to Western audiences. His speeches emphasized the Baháʼí principles of the oneness of humanity, the elimination of prejudice, gender equality, and the importance of universal education.

Under ʻAbdu’l-Bahá’s leadership, the Baháʼí Faith began to gain international recognition. ʻAbdu’l-Bahá was released from Ottoman imprisonment in 1908 after the Young Turk Revolution and spent the last years of his life continuing to promote the teachings of Baháʼu’lláh.

Shoghi Effendi (1897–1957)

After ʻAbdu’l-Bahá’s death in 1921, his grandson, Shoghi Effendi, was appointed as the Guardian of the Baháʼí Faith. Shoghi Effendi played a crucial role in shaping the modern Baháʼí administrative structure. He was responsible for translating Baháʼí texts into English and other languages, organizing the expansion of the Baháʼí community, and overseeing the construction of Baháʼí temples and institutions around the world.

Under Shoghi Effendi’s guidance, the Baháʼí Faith grew into a global religion with a well-defined administrative system. He established local and national spiritual assemblies to govern the affairs of the Baháʼí community in various countries. He also worked to consolidate the unity of the Baháʼí community and to protect it from internal division and external persecution.

Shoghi Effendi passed away in 1957, leaving behind a thriving global Baháʼí community and a strong administrative structure. Following his death, the leadership of the Baháʼí Faith transitioned to the Universal House of Justice, which had been established by Baháʼu’lláh in his writings.

The Universal House of Justice

The Universal House of Justice is the supreme governing body of the Baháʼí Faith. It was first elected in 1963, after Shoghi Effendi’s death, and continues to guide the Baháʼí community today. The Universal House of Justice is composed of nine members who are elected every five years by representatives of Baháʼí national spiritual assemblies around the world.

The Universal House of Justice is responsible for interpreting Baháʼí teachings, guiding the development of the Baháʼí community, and addressing contemporary global issues. It is located in Haifa, Israel, near the Shrine of the Báb, which is one of the most important holy sites in the Baháʼí Faith.

Baháʼí Teachings and Beliefs

The Baháʼí Faith is based on the teachings of Baháʼu’lláh, who presented a vision of a unified global society rooted in spiritual principles. Some of the central tenets of the Baháʼí Faith include:

·        The Oneness of God

Baháʼís believe in one God, who is the creator of the universe and the source of all spiritual truth. Baháʼu’lláh taught that God has revealed Himself to humanity through various Manifestations of God, including Abraham, Moses, Krishna, Buddha, Jesus, Muhammad, the Báb, and Baháʼu’lláh. Each of these Manifestations brought divine teachings suited to the time and place in which they appeared, but they all share the same fundamental spiritual message.

·        The Oneness of Religion

The Baháʼí Faith teaches that all major world religions are part of a single, unfolding divine plan. While the social teachings of religions may differ according to the needs of their respective societies, their spiritual truths are ultimately the same. Baháʼís believe that the world’s religious traditions should be seen as complementary rather than contradictory.

·        The Oneness of Humanity

One of the central teachings of the Baháʼí Faith is the oneness of humanity. Baháʼu’lláh taught that all people are part of a single human family, and that the divisions of race, nationality, and class are artificial barriers that must be overcome. Baháʼís believe that the world should work toward the establishment of a just and peaceful global society in which all people are treated with dignity and respect.

·        Elimination of Prejudice

The Baháʼí Faith strongly condemns all forms of prejudice, including racism, sexism, and religious intolerance. Baháʼís are committed to promoting the equality of all people and to working for social justice and the elimination of discrimination in all its forms.

·        Equality of Men and Women

Baháʼís believe that men and women are equal and that both genders must have equal opportunities to contribute to society. Baháʼu’lláh emphasized the importance of educating women and giving them equal rights in all aspects of life. The promotion of gender equality is a core Baháʼí principle.

·        Universal Education

Education is a fundamental human right in the Baháʼí Faith. Baháʼís believe that access to education is essential for the development of individuals and society. Baháʼu’lláh taught that education should be universal and that both boys and girls should have equal access to learning opportunities.

·        Global Governance

Baháʼís believe that the world should move toward the establishment of a system of global governance that promotes justice, peace, and cooperation among nations. Baháʼu’lláh envisioned a future world in which national governments would work together in a global federation, ensuring the well-being of all people and preventing conflict and war.

·        The Harmony of Science and Religion

The Baháʼí Faith teaches that science and religion are complementary and that both are necessary for the advancement of humanity. Baháʼu’lláh emphasized that true religion is in harmony with reason and science, and that blind faith or dogma should not be allowed to impede scientific progress.

Baháʼí Scriptures and Writings

The writings of Baháʼu’lláh, ʻAbdu’l-Bahá, and the Báb form the core of Baháʼí scripture. Baháʼu’lláh’s writings are vast and include prayers, meditations, letters, and theological treatises. Some of the most important Baháʼí texts include:

Kitáb-i-Aqdas (The Most Holy Book)

The Kitáb-i-Aqdas is Baháʼu’lláh’s most important work and is considered the central book of Baháʼí law. In this book, Baháʼu’lláh outlines the laws and principles that Baháʼís are expected to follow, including the importance of prayer, fasting, and the pursuit of justice.

Kitáb-i-Íqán (The Book of Certitude)

The Kitáb-i-Íqán is a theological treatise in which Baháʼu’lláh explains the unity of all religious revelations. In this work, Baháʼu’lláh clarifies the relationship between the prophets of different religions and emphasizes the continuity of God’s guidance throughout history.

Some Answered Questions

Some Answered Questions is a collection of talks given by ʻAbdu’l-Bahá during his visit to the West. In these talks, ʻAbdu’l-Bahá addresses a wide range of topics, including the nature of the soul, the relationship between science and religion, and the role of women in society.

The Dawn-Breakers

The Dawn-Breakers is a historical account of the early days of the Bábí and Baháʼí movements. Written by Nabíl-i-Aʻzam, a close follower of Baháʼu’lláh, the book provides a detailed chronicle of the lives of the Báb, Baháʼu’lláh, and their followers.

Global Spread of the Baháʼí Faith

Although the Baháʼí Faith originated in Persia, it quickly spread beyond the Middle East to other parts of the world. During the 20th century, Baháʼí communities were established in Europe, North America, Africa, and Asia. Today, Baháʼís can be found in nearly every country and territory around the globe.

The Baháʼí Faith has often faced persecution, particularly in Iran, where it originated. The Iranian government has repeatedly targeted Baháʼís, denying them basic civil rights and subjecting them to harassment, imprisonment, and even execution. Despite these challenges, the Baháʼí community has continued to grow and flourish worldwide.

Major Facts about the Baháʼí Faith

1. Global Religion: The Baháʼí Faith is one of the world’s most widespread religions, with between 5 and 8 million followers spread across over 200 countries and territories.
2. World Unity: The central goal of the Baháʼí Faith is the promotion of world unity. Baháʼís work toward the establishment of a global society based on principles of justice, equality, and cooperation among all people.
3. Persecution in Iran: Since its inception, the Baháʼí Faith has faced severe persecution, especially in Iran. Baháʼís in Iran are frequently denied access to education, employment, and religious freedoms.
4. Elected Governance: The Baháʼí Faith is unique in its administrative structure, which is based on elected bodies rather than clergy. The Universal House of Justice is the highest governing body and is elected every five years.
5. Equality of Men and Women: The Baháʼí Faith emphasizes gender equality and the importance of educating women. Baháʼís believe that the full participation of women is essential for building a just and peaceful society.
6. Sacred Sites: The most important Baháʼí holy sites are located in Israel, near the cities of Haifa and Acre. These include the Shrine of the Báb and the Baháʼí World Centre, both of which are places of pilgrimage for Baháʼís.

Questions and Answers on the Baháʼí Faith

Who are the central figures in the Baháʼí Faith?

The Baháʼí Faith has three central figures:

• The Báb (1819–1850), who taught that a new prophet would soon appear and was executed for heresy.
• Baháʼu’lláh (1817–1892), who declared himself the prophesied figure in 1863 and faced exile and imprisonment.
• ʻAbdu’l-Bahá (1844–1921), Baháʼu’lláh’s son, who took over leadership of the faith and made teaching trips to Europe and the U.S. after his release in 1908.

How is the Baháʼí Faith governed?

The Baháʼí Faith is governed by elected institutions. Each year, Baháʼís vote for local, regional, and national Spiritual Assemblies. Every five years, the Universal House of Justice, a nine-member global governing body, is elected. It is located in Haifa, Israel, near the Shrine of the Báb.

What are Baháʼí teachings on the progression of religion?

Baháʼís believe that religion is revealed progressively by a single God through Manifestations of God. These Manifestations include figures like Buddha, Jesus, and Muhammad, with the Báb and Baháʼu’lláh being the most recent. Baháʼís view all major religions as fundamentally unified in purpose, though they may differ in social practices and interpretations based on the time of their revelation.

What is the central belief of the Baháʼí Faith?

The central belief of the Baháʼí Faith is the unity of all people. It rejects racism, sexism, and nationalism and promotes equality across all races, classes, and nations. Baháʼís strive for a unified global society that ensures prosperity and well-being for all.

What is the Baháʼí vision for humanity?

The Baháʼí Faith envisions a unified world order where diversity is embraced, justice is upheld, and peace prevails. Baháʼís work toward creating a global society that ensures equality and cooperation among all nations and peoples.

What are some of the key texts of the Baháʼí Faith?

The scriptures of the Baháʼí Faith include writings from Baháʼu’lláh, his son ʻAbdu’l-Bahá, and the Báb. Key texts include:

• Kitáb-i-Aqdas (The Most Holy Book)
• Kitáb-i-Íqán (The Book of Certitude)
• Some Answered Questions
• The Dawn-Breakers, which documents the early history of the Baháʼí Faith.

How does the Baháʼí Faith address social and economic issues?

The Baháʼí Faith teaches that religion should be a force for good, bringing people together to address social and economic issues. It promotes the elimination of prejudice, the empowerment of women, and the creation of a global system of governance based on cooperation and collective security.

How does the Baháʼí Faith view the role of women and gender equality?

The Baháʼí Faith advocates for the empowerment of women and the promotion of gender equality. It rejects sexism and encourages women to play an active role in all aspects of society, including leadership.

What does the Baháʼí Faith say about prejudice and discrimination?

Baháʼí teachings explicitly reject all forms of prejudice, including racism, sexism, and nationalism. The faith promotes the idea that all humans are equal and should work together for the betterment of society.

How does the Baháʼí Faith view the relationship between science and religion?

The Baháʼí Faith holds that science and religion are complementary. It teaches that both are essential for human progress and that true understanding comes when science and religion work in harmony.

What is the role of the Universal House of Justice in the Baháʼí Faith?

The Universal House of Justice is the global governing body of the Baháʼí Faith, responsible for guiding the Baháʼí community and overseeing its spiritual and administrative affairs. It is elected every five years by Baháʼí representatives from around the world.

How do Baháʼís view the purpose of different world religions?

Baháʼís believe that all major world religions share a common purpose: to guide humanity toward spiritual and moral development. While their teachings may differ based on the social needs of the time, they are all part of a divine plan revealed progressively by God.

What is the ultimate goal of the Baháʼí Faith?

The ultimate goal of the Baháʼí Faith is to foster the unity of all humanity and to establish a global society where justice, peace, and prosperity are ensured for all people, regardless of their race, religion, or nationality