Baha'i

        The Bahá’í Faith is one of the youngest world religions, founded in the mid-1800s in Persia (modern-day Iran) by Bahá’u’lláh, whose name means “Glory of God.” Bahá’u’lláh taught that all major world religions come from the same divine source and are part of a single, evolving faith meant to guide humanity.

        The Bahá’í Faith emerged from a movement started by the Báb, who prepared the way for Bahá’u’lláh’s mission. Bahá’u’lláh spent much of his life imprisoned or exiled for his teachings, but his message spread globally. Today, the Bahá’í Faith has millions of followers in over 200 countries and territories and is known for promoting unity, peace, and human rights.

        The Bahá’í Faith teaches that God is one, that all people are equal, and that religion should unite, not divide humanity. Bahá’ís believe God sends prophets (called Manifestations of God) throughout history to teach and guide humanity. These include Abraham, Moses, Buddha, Krishna, Jesus, Muhammad, the Báb, and Bahá’u’lláh.

Key Bahá’í principles include:

• Unity of all religions – All the world’s major religions come from the same source and share a common purpose.

• Oneness of humanity – All people, regardless of race, gender, or background, are part of one human family.

• Equality of men and women – Men and women are equal in the eyes of God and should have the same rights and opportunities.

• Elimination of prejudice – Racism, sexism, and other forms of prejudice must be overcome for humanity to progress.

• World peace and global unity – Bahá’ís work for cooperation among nations and believe in creating a just and peaceful world.

• Independent investigation of truth – Everyone should search for truth themselves, not blindly follow tradition or authority.

• Harmony of science and religion – Both are needed to understand reality and should support each other.

• Daily prayer and reflection – While Bahá’ís don’t have rituals like many religions, they pray daily and reflect on scripture.

        Bahá’í communities meet regularly for devotional gatherings, service projects, and study circles, and they elect spiritual councils without clergy or paid leaders.

        Bahá’ís believe the soul is eternal and continues to grow and develop after death. Life on Earth is seen as the beginning of a spiritual journey, where people develop qualities like love, honesty, and patience. There is no heaven or hell as physical places—instead, the closeness or distance of the soul to God represents spiritual joy or suffering in the afterlife.

        The Bahá’í Faith offers a hopeful, unifying vision for humanity. It emphasizes love, justice, and the belief that despite our differences, we are all connected and meant to work together for the betterment of the world. In a time of division and conflict, Bahá’ís aim to be bridge-builders and peacemakers across cultures, religions, and communities.