Baha'i Faith: The Basics

Baháí Faith: The Basics offers an accessible introduction to the Baháí Faith, covering its history, beliefs, principles, scripture, institutions, community-building efforts, social action, public discourse, and vision for a future golden age. It is an ideal text for students and interested readers.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 250 pages
Publication date: 27 November 2020
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

The Bahá'í Faith is a captivating and independent world religion that offers a comprehensive and accessible introduction. This introduction delves into its historical development, ongoing community-building initiatives, and the significant social contributions of the Bahá'í Faith in the world today. It encompasses various aspects, including beliefs, principles, history, scripture, institutions, building community, social action, public discourse, and vision.

Beliefs: The Bahá'í spiritual teachings are rooted in the teachings of Baháulláh, the founder of the Bahá'í Faith. These teachings emphasize the unity of all religions, the oneness of humanity, and the importance of serving God. Bahá'ís believe in the progressive revelation of divine truth through progressive spiritual masters, culminating in the appearance of Baháulláh as the latest manifestation of God.

Principles: The Bahá'í social teachings are guided by the principles of unity, justice, peace, and the advancement of humanity. Bahá'ís strive to create a world where all people can live together in harmony, regardless of race, religion, or social status. They emphasize the importance of social and economic development, education, and the promotion of gender equality.

History: The Bahá'í Faith originated in Persia in the mid-19th century and was founded by Baháulláh, a Persian nobleman. Baháulláh received divine revelations and proclaimed the teachings of the Bahá'í Faith, which he believed would bring about a new era of peace and unity for humanity. Baháulláh's covenant, known as the Kitáb-i-Aqdas, is considered the sacred scripture of the Bahá'í Faith and outlines the fundamental principles and teachings of the religion.

Scripture: The Bahá'í sacred texts include the Qur'án, the Bible, the Gospels, and the Bahá'í Writings. The Bahá'í Writings are a collection of writings by Bahá'í spiritual masters and include the writings of Baháulláh, his successor Shoghi Effendi Rabbani, and subsequent leaders of the Bahá'í community. These writings provide inspired guidance and insights into the Bahá'í Faith and its teachings.

Institutions: The Bahá'í Administrative Order is the governing body of the Bahá'í Faith, responsible for the administration and governance of the religion. The Universal House of Justice, located in Haifa, Israel, is the highest governing body of the Bahá'í Faith and is responsible for interpreting and applying the teachings of the Bahá'í Faith.

Building Community: Bahá'ís are actively involved in building community through various activities and initiatives. They participate in local spiritual assemblies, known as Local Spiritual Assemblies, which are the primary units of community organization. Bahá'ís also engage in social service, humanitarian, and educational projects, both locally and internationally.

Social Action: Bahá'ís are committed to social and economic development and work towards promoting the well-being of individuals and communities. They have established numerous social and economic development projects, including community development, poverty alleviation, healthcare, and education. Bahá'ís also participate in public discourse and advocate for social justice and human rights.

Public Discourse: The Bahá'í International Community is a global network of Bahá'ís who work together to promote the teachings of the Bahá'í Faith and advance social and humanitarian causes. The Bahá'í International Community engages in public discourse through various channels, including conferences, publications, and social media.

Vision: The Bahá'í Faith envisions a future golden age where all people can live together in harmony, peace, and prosperity. Bahá'ís believe that the advancement of humanity and the establishment of a just and equitable world are essential for achieving this vision. They work towards achieving this vision through their social and economic development projects, public discourse, and spiritual practices.

In conclusion, the Bahá'í Faith is a fascinating and independent world religion that offers a comprehensive and accessible introduction to its beliefs, principles, history, scripture, institutions, building community, social action, public discourse, and vision. With its rich teachings and social contributions, the Bahá'í Faith continues to inspire and empower individuals and communities around the world. Whether you are a student, interested reader, or seeking to deepen your understanding of the Bahá'í Faith, this introduction is an invaluable resource.

Weight: 284g
Dimension: 127 x 196 x 25 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781138346161