Baha’i
Definition
The Baha’i Faith is a monotheistic religion that originated in the 19th century in Persia (modern-day Iran). Followers of this religion, known as Baha’is, adhere to the teachings of Baha’u’llah (born Mirza Husayn Ali Nuri, d. 1892). The religion emphasizes the concept of progressive revelation, acknowledging Muhammad as the last Prophet while also believing in a continuous process of divine manifestations. Baha’is believe in the unity of God, humanity, and religion. They advocate for the elimination of prejudice and superstition, the harmony of science and religion, gender equality, universal education, social and economic justice, and a spiritual basis for society.
Etymology and Translations
- Etymology: The word “Baha’i” is derived from the Arabic word Bahá’ (بهاء) which means “glory” or “splendor”. The term encapsulates the followers of Baha’u’llah, meaning “Glory of God”.
- Arabic: بهائيون (Bahaiyyun)
- Turkish: Bahailer
Core Beliefs
- Oneness of God: Baha’is believe in a single, all-powerful God who is the source of all creation.
- Progressive Revelation: The belief that God communicates His will through successive prophets, of which Baha’u’llah is regarded as the most recent.
- Unity of Humanity: Emphasizes that all humans are part of a unified global community.
- Equality and Justice: Advocates for the elimination of all forms of prejudice, gender equality, and social and economic justice.
- Harmony of Science and Religion: Baha’is believe that science and religion are complementary aspects of a unified truth.
History and Development
- Historical Origins: The Baha’i Faith emerged from Babism, a religious movement founded by the Bab (Siyyid Ali Muhammad Shirazi) in 1844. Baha’u’llah, initially a follower of the Bab, later proclaimed himself to be the one whom the Bab had predicted.
- Global Expansion: After its inception in Iran, the Baha’i Faith spread globally. Today, it boasts approximately five million adherents worldwide, with significant communities in various countries, especially India.
Reception in Islamic Context
The Baha’i movement is considered heretical by many in the Islamic world. This is primarily due to the Baha’i claim of subsequent revelations after Muhammad, whom Muslims regard as the Seal of the Prophets.
Suggested Books for Further Studies
- Baha’u’llah and the New Era by J.E. Esslemont - A comprehensive introduction to Baha’i teachings.
- The Baha’i Faith: A Short History by Peter Smith - An overview of the historical development of the Baha’i Faith.
- Gleanings from the Writings of Baha’u’llah by Baha’u’llah - A collection of key teachings and writings of Baha’u’llah.
Takeaways
- The Baha’i Faith promotes principles of unity, justice, and the harmonious coexistence of religion and science.
- Despite being rooted in a tradition that acknowledges Islamic Prophets, the foundational beliefs of the Baha’i Faith regarding continuous revelation have led to it being labeled as heretical by many Muslims.
Conclusion
The Baha’i Faith represents a modern spiritual movement arising from the Middle Eastern religious milieu. While it shares some foundational religious tenets with Islam, the faith’s unique stance on progressive revelation and its broad principles aimed at unity and justice underscore its distinct theological and philosophical identity.
