Overview
This lecture covers the history, beliefs, and key teachings of the Baha'i faith, emphasizing its pluralistic approach, progressive revelation, and principles aimed at achieving world peace.
Origins and Founders
- Baha'i means "follower of Baha'u'llah," the founder whose name means "glory to God."
- Roots in Shiite Islam and the tradition of the 12th Imam, with a belief that the messianic age began in 1844.
- The Bab, whose name means "gateway," was precursor to Baha'u'llah and was executed for blasphemy.
- Baha'u'llah (Mirza Husayn Ali Nuri, 1817–1892) proclaimed a new revelation, was persecuted, imprisoned, and later confined to house arrest.
- Baha'u'llah authored over 90 books, the most important being the Kitab-i-Aqdas.
Key Beliefs and Teachings
- There is one God who has sent nine major prophets (e.g., Krishna, Moses, Buddha, Jesus, Muhammad, Baha'u'llah) throughout history.
- Each prophet brought a new revelation to address humanity's needs for their era, forming a "progressive revelation."
- Baha'i uses the nine-pointed star to symbolize the nine prophets and unity among religions.
- Baha'is expect future prophets; Baha'u'llah predicts the next major messenger will come in about 500 years.
- All previous revelations were complete for their own time and can be built upon.
- Religion is seen as evolving step-by-step toward spiritual maturity and global unity.
Ten Principles of Baha'i Faith
- Belief in one God; all religions come from the same divine source.
- Humanity is one family regardless of race, religion, or ethnicity.
- Men and women are absolutely equal in spiritual and social roles.
- All forms of prejudice are destructive and must be overcome.
- Family unity is vital for creating peace and raising moral individuals.
- Divorce is discouraged but permitted.
- Individuals must seek the truth independently, free of preconceptions.
- Science and religion are in harmony and should support one another.
- Economic and spiritual problems are intertwined and must be addressed together.
- World peace is essential and is the ultimate goal of religious efforts.
Practices and Community Structure
- Baha'i Houses of Worship (temples) are open to all and have nine sides/doors symbolizing inclusivity.
- Local, regional, and international affairs are governed by elected councils of nine members, emphasizing shared leadership and diversity.
- Annual calendar consists of 19 months of 19 days each, with fasting during the last month.
- Baha'i emphasizes universal education, including for women and children.
- Baha'i ethics stress golden rule, moderation, and respect for all people.
Afterlife and Soul
- Belief in the immortality of the soul; the afterlife is described as a state beyond current comprehension.
- Heaven and hell are viewed as closeness to or distance from God, both in this life and the next.
- Open to multiple interpretations of the afterlife (e.g., reincarnation, ascension).
Key Terms & Definitions
- Baha'u'llah — Founder of Baha'i faith, proponent of unity and world peace.
- The Bab — Forerunner to Baha'u'llah, called "the gateway" to the new revelation.
- Progressive Revelation — Idea that God reveals religious truth in stages through various prophets.
- Nine-pointed star — Symbol of unity and the nine major prophets in Baha'i.
- Kitab-i-Aqdas — Central book of Baha'i scripture.
- House of Worship — Baha'i temple, open to all peoples.
- Council of Nine — Elected governing bodies at local, regional, and international levels.
Action Items / Next Steps
- Prepare for the Baha'i quiz.
- Optional: Visit the Baha'i House of Worship in Chicago or research the Kitab-i-Aqdas for deeper understanding.