Bahá'í

 

People who follow Bahá'u'lláh (the Glory of God) the Founder of the Bahá'í Faith, are known as Bahá'ís. It began in Persia in 1844. Bahá'u'lláh's advent was proclaimed by a Herald, known as The Báb (the Gate), who was also a messenger of God. The Báb prepared the people for the coming of Bahá'u'lláh much like John the Baptist did for Christ. Bahá'u'lláh said that he was the bringer of divine revelation to fulfil the promises made by previous Messengers of other religions, and to offer further guidance to humankind.

The shrines of the Báb and Bahá'u'lláh now situated in the Holy Land (Israel), are the most holy places of pilgrimage for Bahá'ís. The Bahá'í Faith has since established itself all over the world. Bahá'ís come from virtually every nation, ethnic group, culture, profession and social or economic class. More than 2100 different ethnic and tribal groups are represented.

The main theme of Bahá'u'lláh's message is unity and world peace.

He taught that

  • There is only one God,
  • all the world's religions represent aspects of one changeless and eternal Faith of God,
  • all humanity is one race, destined to live in peace and harmony
  • men and women should have equality of opportunity

Bahá'ís believe that the future of the world lies in a single world order existing for the benefit of everyone, regardless of race, religion, gender or class.

The importance of education is a central theme.

Other points to note:

Some obligations of a Bahá'í:

  • Pray daily
  • Read some of the Bahá'í Scriptures daily
  • Observe the Bahá'í Fast if not exempt from it
  • Engage in some type of work profitable to humankind in a spirit of service
  • Endeavour to lead a Bahá'í life
  • Endeavour to teach the Faith by example and word
  • Support the Bahá'í administrative system.
  • There are no specific dietary laws although vegetarianism is encouraged as a healthier lifestyle.
  • Alcohol and taking of habit forming drugs is strictly forbidden unless prescribed by a doctor.

Followers: Bahá'ís

Holy Books: Bahá'u'lláh wrote extensively, including Kitab-i-Aqdas (The Most Holy Book).This is the basis of Bahá'í moral principles and institutions.TheKitab-i-Iqan contains the doctrinal beliefs

Holy Day: observe which ever day is customary to the country

Language: use which ever language is spoken in country in which they live

Community Contacts:

http://www.bahai.org.uk

Exeter:Joyce Sherwani
Tel: 01392 279922

Torbay and South Devon:
Jan MughrabiTel: 01803 556632