Chicago Baháʼí Temple

Baháʼí 
The Bahá'í Faith is a global, independent religion founded in the mid-19th century by Bahá'u'lláh in Persia (modern-day Iran). It emphasizes the spiritual unity of humanity, advocating for the oneness of God, religion, and humankind. Central to its teachings are the principles of equality between men and women, universal education, the elimination of prejudice, and the harmony of science and religion. Bahá'ís believe in progressive revelation, viewing Bahá'u'lláh as the latest in a line of messengers from God that includes figures like Moses, Jesus, and Muhammad. The faith has no clergy and is organized through a system of elected council.
"The earth is but one country, and mankind its citizens."
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​​Bahá'u'lláh

Detailed Overview of the Bahá'í Faith
Origins and Historical Roots
The Bahá'í Faith traces its origins to the mid-19th century in Persia (modern-day Iran). It emerged from the religious and social turmoil of the Islamic world, particularly within Shia Islam. The faith began with the declaration of the Báb (meaning “Gate”), whose teachings prepared the way for Bahá'u'lláh, the founder of the Bahá'í Faith. The Báb declared his mission in 1844 in Shiraz, Persia, and was martyred in 1850 after facing severe persecution. His teachings emphasized spiritual renewal and the coming of a greater manifestation of God, which Bahá'ís believe was fulfilled by Bahá'u'lláh.
Bahá'u'lláh (1817-1892), born Mírzá Ṣusayn-ʿAlí Núrí, declared his mission in 1863 while in exile in Baghdad. His teachings and writings form the core of the Bahá'í Faith. Over his lifetime, he faced imprisonment, exile, and persecution but continued to spread his message of unity and peace.

Key Events in Bahá'í History

1. Declaration of the Báb (1844): Marks the beginning of the Bahá'í calendar.
2. Martyrdom of the Báb (1850): The Báb was executed in Tabriz, a pivotal moment that solidified the resolve of his followers.
3. Exile of Bahá'u'lláh (1853): Bahá'u'lláh was exiled to Baghdad, where he declared his mission in 1863.
4. Writing of the Kitáb-i-Aqdas (1873): Known as the Most Holy Book, this is the central book of Bahá'í laws.
5. Passing of Bahá'u'lláh (1892): His son, ‘Abdu’l-Bahá, became the leader of the faith.
6. Appointment of Shoghi Effendi (1921): As the Guardian of the Faith, he expanded Bahá'í administrative structures.
7. Formation of the Universal House of Justice (1963): The supreme governing body of the Bahá'í Faith.
   
   

Central Ideas and Concepts
The Bahá'í Faith is founded on the principle of the oneness of humanity, emphasizing that all people, regardless of race, gender, or nationality, are equal. Key teachings include:

1. Unity of Religion: All religions come from the same divine source and are part of a progressive revelation.
2. Equality of Men and Women: Gender equality is essential for the advancement of humanity.
3. Universal Education: Education is a fundamental right and necessity for social progress.
4. Elimination of Prejudice: Prejudice of all forms must be eradicated to achieve peace.
5. Harmony of Science and Religion: These two domains must work together to advance civilization.
6. Establishment of World Peace: Through justice, cooperation, and a unified global society.
   
   

Key Figures

1. The Báb (1819-1850): Herald of the Bahá'í Faith, who prepared the way for Bahá'u'lláh.
2. Bahá'u'lláh (1817-1892): Founder of the Bahá'í Faith, who articulated its key teachings.
3. ‘Abdu’l-Bahá (1844-1921): Son of Bahá'u'lláh and the exemplar of his teachings, who promoted the faith worldwide.
4. Shoghi Effendi (1897-1957): The Guardian of the Bahá'í Faith, responsible for its global development.
   
   

Major Publications and Writings

1. The Kitáb-i-Aqdas (1873): Known as the Most Holy Book, this is the central book of Bahá'í laws, addressing spiritual and social laws.
2. The Hidden Words (1858): A collection of mystical writings offering ethical and spiritual guidance.
3. Tablets of Bahá'u'lláh (various years): A compilation of writings addressing various topics, including peace and justice.
4. Some Answered Questions (1908): A collection of explanations by ‘Abdu’l-Bahá on spiritual and philosophical questions.
5. The Dawn-Breakers (1932): A historical narrative by Nabíl chronicling the early days of the Bahá'í Faith.
   
   

Ten Important Quotes

1. “The earth is but one country, and mankind its citizens.” — Gleanings from the Writings of Bahá'u'lláh (1935)
2. “So powerful is the light of unity that it can illuminate the whole earth.” — Epistle to the Son of the Wolf (1891)
3. “Ye are the fruits of one tree, and the leaves of one branch.” — Tablets of Bahá'u'lláh (1880s)
4. “Religion should unite all hearts and cause wars and disputes to vanish.” — The Promulgation of Universal Peace (1912)
5. “Work done in the spirit of service is the highest form of worship.” — Tablets of Bahá'u'lláh
6. “Let your vision be world-embracing, rather than confined to your own self.” — Gleanings from the Writings of Bahá'u'lláh
7. “Regard man as a mine rich in gems of inestimable value.” — Tablets of Bahá'u'lláh
8. “Consort with the followers of all religions in a spirit of friendliness and fellowship.” — Tablets of Bahá'u'lláh
9. “The betterment of the world can be accomplished through pure and goodly deeds.” — Gleanings from the Writings of Bahá'u'lláh
10. “Be anxiously concerned with the needs of the age ye live in.” — Gleanings from the Writings of Bahá'u'lláh
    
    

Conclusion
The Bahá'í Faith is a religion of unity, seeking to address the spiritual and social challenges of humanity. Its teachings emphasize harmony, peace, and the collective progress of the human race. With a growing global presence, it continues to inspire millions to work toward a more just and unified world.

Here is a table of the top 10 countries with the largest Bahá'í populations, along with their total populations and the percentage of Bahá'ís within each country.
In the late 19th century, persecution of Baha'is in Iran led many to flee to other parts of the Middle East, Eastern Europe, and the United States. This diaspora helped establish initial Baha'i communities in various countries. (Egypt, Sudan, Palestine, Turkey, and India, converting Sunni Muslims and some Christians.)
After being released from Ottoman imprisonment in 1908, Abdu'l-Baha, Baha'u'llah's son and successor, embarked on journeys to North America, northern Africa, and Europe, introducing the Baha'i teachings to Western audiences.
Today, the Baha'i Faith is considered one of the most diverse and widespread world religions, with over 5 million adherents in more than 200 countries, representing over 2,100 ethnic groups. It is second only to Christianity in the number of countries and territories where its followers can be found.