A Fair and Friendly Introduction to the History, Beliefs, and Practices of the Baha'i Faith

A Doubter's Guide to World Religions: A Fair and Friendly Introduction to the History, Beliefs, and Practices of the Big Five

by John Dickson

4 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	787 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	313 pages
X-Ray for textbooks	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported

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The Baha'i Faith is a monotheistic religion that emphasizes the unity of humanity, the importance of education, and the equality of women and men. It was founded in the mid-19th century by Baha'u'llah, who is considered by Baha'is to be the latest in a line of divine messengers that includes Abraham, Moses, Jesus, and Muhammad.

The Baha'i Faith is a relatively young religion, but it has grown rapidly in recent years and is now practiced in over 180 countries and territories. There are an estimated 5 million Baha'is worldwide, making it one of the largest non-Christian religions in the world.

History

The Baha'i Faith was founded in Persia (now Iran) in the mid-19th century. Its founder, Baha'u'llah, was born into a wealthy and influential family in Tehran. He was a devout Muslim, but he became increasingly disillusioned with the corruption and injustice that he saw in the world.

In 1844, Baha'u'llah had a vision in which he was told that he was the latest in a line of divine messengers. He began to teach his followers that God is one, that all religions are essentially the same, and that humanity is destined to achieve unity.

Baha'u'llah's teachings were met with opposition from the religious and political authorities in Persia. He was imprisoned and exiled several times. In 1863, he was banished to the prison city of Acre in what is now Israel.

Baha'u'llah spent the rest of his life in Acre, writing and teaching his followers. He died in 1892, and his son, `Abdu'l-Baha, succeeded him as the leader of the Baha'i Faith.

Beliefs

The Baha'i Faith has a number of core beliefs, including:

* There is only one God, who is the creator of all things. * All religions are essentially the same, and they all teach the same basic principles. * Humanity is one family, and all human beings are equal. * Men and women are equal, and they should be treated with respect and dignity. * Education is essential for the progress of humanity. * Science and religion are not in conflict, but rather they complement each other. * The world is in a state of evolution, and it is destined to achieve unity and peace.

Practices

The Baha'i Faith has a number of practices, including:

* Daily prayer: Baha'is are required to pray three times a day. The prayers are simple and can be said anywhere. * Fasting: Baha'is fast for 19 days each year. The fast is a time for spiritual reflection and meditation. * Pilgrimage: Baha'is are encouraged to make a pilgrimage to the Baha'i World Centre in Haifa, Israel, at least once in their lives. * Marriage: Baha'is believe that marriage is a sacred institution. Baha'i marriages are monogamous, and they are performed in a simple ceremony. * Burial: Baha'is are buried in simple graves. The graves are not marked with headstones.

The Baha'i Faith is a religion of peace, unity, and progress. It offers a message of hope and inspiration to people of all backgrounds. The Baha'i Faith is a small but growing religion, and it is making a positive contribution to the world.

A Doubter's Guide to World Religions: A Fair and Friendly Introduction to the History, Beliefs, and Practices of the Big Five

by John Dickson

4 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	787 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	313 pages
X-Ray for textbooks	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported

FREE