Shoghi Effendi (Guardian of the Baha'i Faith) wrote about this. Message and data rates may apply. Dale Husbands Sound-Bites for an Idiotic Age, Reliable sources of science news and data, Why peace activists (and critics of religion) sometimes fail Dale Husband's Intellectual Rants, Why I Abandoned the (Haifan) Bahai Faith | Dale Husband's Intellectual Rants, Why I Abandoned the (Haifan) Bahai Faith? The government released Baha'u'llah in 1853, and exiled him to Baghdad, then part of the Ottoman Empire. "The question of dealing with those who call themselves Bahs but who act in ways which we believe to be detrimental to the interests of the Cause is a very difficult one. One of them said: 'How putrid has this animal become!' Baha'u'llah, whose name means Glory of God in Arabic, was born in Tehran in 1817. The letters or contact of why you are withdrawing are also another reason why not to do so. After years of investigation and soul-searching, I have finally come to the sad understanding that I can no longer bring myself to believe in Bahaullah or any of the institutions established in His name, including the Guardianship and the Universal House of Justice. Instead, the Bahai Faith operates administratively with a system of local, national and international nine-member governing bodies, all democratically elected without nominations or campaigns. The Universal House of Justice suggests that you call to mind the admonitions found in our Writings on the need to overlook the shortcomings of others, to forgive and conceal their misdeeds, not to expose their bad qualities, but to search for and affirm their praiseworthy ones, and endeavour to be always forbearing, patient, and merciful. For backbiting is divisive, it is the leading cause among the friends of a disposition to withdraw. "Abdul-Bah does not permit adverse criticism of individuals by name in discussion among the friends, even if the one criticizing believes that he is doing so to protect the interests of the Cause. I sometimes hear, from those without much knowledge of the Bahai Faith, that it is syncretic. Bahu'llh's claim of divine revelation is in direct conflict with this common interpretation of Islam. I hope that all the believers will attain to this lofty station. If the Bahs would follow the Bah laws in voting, in electing, in serving and in abiding by Assembly decisions, all this waste of strength through criticising others could be diverted into cooperation and achieving the Plan. He concluded from this that the Bah' World Faith must be God's religion. How cadaverous looking!' In the West, liberals have criticized the Bah Faith for some of its conservative social practices, notably the prohibition on premarital or homosexual intimacy for Bahs. According to Bah' belief, there have been individuals throughout history who were Manifestations of God, who founded major world religions and had certain supernatural powers, such as the ability to prophesy. Later, my mother, who was always hostile to the Bahai Faith because of her Baptist convictions, took those items and discarded them all without my consent. On the 200th anniversary of the birth of Baha'u'llah, the founder of the Baha'i faith, the question remains: What is the reason for their persecution? By clicking "Continue" "Submit" , I agree to the Privacy Policy and Terms of Use, and consent to receive communications (email, telephone call, or text message) from Bahaiteachings.org about news, events and offers, including via automated technology and/or prerecorded calls or messages to the number and email provided above, even if my number is a mobile number or is currently listed on any state, federal or corporate Do Not Call list. I am closer to God than I have ever been, and less confused than I have ever been. It really doesnt matter what one calls oneself, it only matters what ones relationship is to God in reality. [1] It was during this exile that he publicly announced the establishment of the Baha'i faith. Knowing you seem similar to my mindset from a brief review of your site, I might be more inclined to try the UU route. Baha'u'llahs father was a minister in Irans government, which supported Shi'i Islam as the state religion. The principal Bah tenets are the essential unity of all religions and the unity of humanity. I understand that I can withdraw my consent at any time. He must be a seeker of the truth, no matter from what source it come. Unfortunately, not only average people, but average Bahs, are very immature; gossip, trouble-making, criticism, seem easier than the putting into practice of love, constructive words and cooperation. In the early 21st century there were nine Bah houses of worship: in Australia, Cambodia, Chile, Germany, India, Panama, Samoa, the United States, and Uganda. Click to share on Twitter (Opens in new window), Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window). His writings, which promote peace and unity, are at the heart of the . If that has changed recently Id like to see the reference. For many, the Baha'i faith is one of the most universal religions. According to Bahai law, I would have needed the consent of both her mother (her father was already deceased), and my BIRTH (not adoptive) parents to be married to her. Backbiting, Criticism, Faultfinding, Gossip, Lies, Slander Etc. (Quoted in Star of West, Vol. The Bb was arrested and, after several years of incarceration, was executed in 1850. Over 20,000 unique works by Baha'u'llah have been identified at the Baha'i World Centre, comprising just under seven million words. An unethical teaching from the Caleb and Sophia Series December 24, 2022. Bahaullahs revelation has been recognized as an independent global Faith in most of the countries of the world. If we think we can help matters by a frank and friendly talk with the individual concerned, refraining from judging or condemning, but pointing out in as kind a manner as possible the way in which, as it seems to us, the sort of conduct in question is harmful to the Cause or of a nature forbidden by the teachings, then it seems well to try that method before resorting to the more formidable method of bringing the matter before the Spiritual Assembly. Eventually, what started as a compromise between us grew into a case of full blown allegiance to the UU church for both of us. John Ankerberg) have attacked its history and founders, institutions, teachings, and use of prophecy. There is no way Im going to use a strangers personal home as a house of worship. Since the Bahai Faith is a relatively young religion founded by Bahaullah in the middle of the 19th century not everyone knows a great deal about it, and some people have incorrect information. She has published in anthologies, textbooks, peer-reviewed academic journals, radio and magazines; presented papers at numerous By clicking "Sign up", I agree to the Privacy Policy and Terms of Use, and consent to receive communications (email, telephone call, or text message) from Bahaiteachings.org about news, events and offers, including via automated technology and/or prerecorded calls or messages to the number and email provided above, even if my number is a mobile number or is currently listed on any state, federal or corporate Do Not Call list. "[25] Excommunication among Bahs is rare and reserved for those actively promoting schism. The central figure of the religion is Baha'u'llah, and Baha'is consider him to be the latest in a series of divine messengers. Because the Bahai Faith is based in the grassroots, any social action is the result of consultative decisions made in any given locality and depends on local capacities. In 1850, the Bab was charged by Shi'i religious officials with heresy and was put to death by firing squad. Extract from Dale Husbands blog. We should therefore, as tactfully as possible, but yet firmly, do our utmost to prevent others from making accusations or complaints against others in our presence.". "As to backbiting, the House of Justice points out that learning not to concern oneself with the faults of others seems to be one of the most difficult lessons for people to master, and that failing in this is a fertile cause of disputes among Bahs as it is among men and women in general. In a letter written to an individual believer on behalf of the Guardian it is stated: 'If we are better, if we show love, patience, and understanding of the weakness of others, if we seek to never criticize but rather encourage, others will do likewise, and we can really help the Cause through our example and spiritual strength. Your opinion is based on no facts whatsoever and therefore is not worth considering. What are my imperfections?and try to remove them. [17], From 1980 onward, several well-educated Bahs left the religion and subsequently criticized it. Still others encircle this garden inhaling the fragrance of the flowers, having enjoyed its full beauty, pass out again by the same gate. Omissions? Throughout his life, Bah'u'llah penned over 100 . | The Bahai Insider, Pingback: Dale Husband: Why I Abandoned the (Haifan) Bahai Faith Bah Censorship, Pingback: Another reason to despise Michael Shermer | Dale Husband's Intellectual Rants, Pingback: A Critical Analysis of the The Kitb-i-Aqdas, Part Three | Dale Husband's Intellectual Rants, Pingback: A Conversion to Mormonism | Dale Husband's Intellectual Rants, Pingback: Featured in a magazine critical of the Bahai Faith | Dale Husband's Intellectual Rants, At the gate of the garden some stand and look within, but do not care to enter. How white they are!' In the summer and fall of 2004, I gradually came to the conviction that the Bahai Faith was no longer worthy of my allegiance. You will overcome self, you will not even have time to think of the faults of others'. Each of us is immeasurably far from being 'perfect as our heavenly Father is perfect' and the task of perfecting our own life and character is one that requires all our attention, our will-power and energy. Paradise and Paradigm - Christopher Buck 1999-01-01 Comparing paradise imagery in two Persian religions, early Syriac Christianity and the Baha'i Faith, this work contributes to religious studies methodology by introducing "symbolic paradigm analysis." The Baha'i Faith in Africa - Anthony Lee 2011-10-28 I was recently invited to participate on an interfaith panel where we all responded to this question: What are the truths and misconceptions about your Faith? Quite controversially, the Bab claimed that his teachings were a revelation from God and predicted that a new prophetic figure, or manifestation of God, would soon appear. The Baha'i Faith is a dynamic world religion with several million adherents from a variety of different religious and cultural backgrounds. (3) Anachronistic Baha'i scriptures. My life has changed in ways that I had hoped the Bahai Faith would help me do, but in 35 years has not. Despite their apparent differences, the worlds great religions, according to the Bahs, teach an identical truth. When not convened as a body, each member has no autonomous authority. Actually, when I was Bahai I was dating a nominal Christian, and I had suggested the UU church as a possible place that we could go for worship together if we got married. Extract from Dale Husbands blog. From my understanding, Baha'i Faith is an offshoot from Islam but still believes in Muhammad. There are no initiation ceremonies, no sacraments, and no clergy. [35] By contrast, MacEoin generally praised the work in Bah studies of Bah historian Peter Smith and non-Bah sociologist Margit Warburg. About 5 million people worldwide adhere to the Baha'i faith, according to Patheos.com, but other sources say there are as many as 7 million around the world.. Historical context. And actually the Bahais are far more interested in growing their numbers than spending time and money on charitable work. A Question About Translating the Baha'i Writings December 11, 2022. I would later realize how useful those books could have been as weapons against my former religion, but I also was able to find enough online resources for my purposes. A primary theme of Baha'u'llahs teachings is achieving world peace through the establishment of unity, justice and equality. While every effort has been made to follow citation style rules, there may be some discrepancies. In the West, liberals have criticized the Bah Faith for some of its conservative social practices, notably the prohibition on premarital or homosexual intimacy for Bahs. Ive never been into having to jump through hurdles to withdraw. Assistant Professor of History and Middle East Studies, Idaho State University. You should urge your fellow-Bahs to take this point of view, and to support you in a strong effort to suppress every critical thought and every harsh word, in order to let the spirit of Bahullh flow into the entire community, and unite it in His love and in His service. Message and data rates may apply. Try making a comment like an adult and I will then treat you like one. Actually, Baha'is have been imprisoned and martyred since their Faith began in Persia, because of the persecution of the powerful Islamic clerics who consider the Baha'i Faith and its progressive principles a threat. For you I desire spiritual distinction; that is, you must become eminent and distinguished in morals. Please select which sections you would like to print: Encyclopaedia Britannica's editors oversee subject areas in which they have extensive knowledge, whether from years of experience gained by working on that content or via study for an advanced degree. Its six years since I declared and four or five since I became an ex Bahai. Most criticism has come from Iranian enemies with a reputation for deception, Christian groups intending to smear the religion, and disaffected former Baha'is who largely criticize individuals in the administration. [21] The Universal House of Justice stated in 1995, and has repeated since, that the teachings on sexuality are laid down in the faith's scripture and that, "the House of Justice has no authority to change this clear teaching on homosexual practice. The Bah' Faith is a world religion based on the teachings of Bah'u'llh. That Baha'u'llah was the Manifestation of God for this day and be obedient to the covenant. Being involved in interfaith work, Im constantly asked Whos your local spiritual leader, or priest, or pastor? The fact is, there isnt one. But its root is lack of faith in the system of Bahullh, i.e., the Administrative Orderand lack of obedience to Himfor He has forbidden it! The Baha'i Faith is a scriptural religion; the current written texts are considered fully authoritative. The Bah Faith is a relatively new religion teaching the essential worth of all religions and the unity of all people.. "It is related that His Holiness ChristMay my life be a sacrifice to Him!one day, accompanied by His apostles, passed by the corpse of a dead animal. The Babi movement called for revolutionary social changes and championed womens rights. To put you in touch with a Bahai in your area who can answer your questions, we would like to kindly ask for a few details about yourself. After Islamic fundamentalists came to power in Iran in 1979, the 300,000 Bahs there were persecuted by the government. Once they are ADULTS, they should be treated like adults, period. There were several completely inactive Bahais in the North Richland Hills, Texas locality who I never saw in the years I was a Bahai, but there was no talk of them not having administrative rights. But. Your details have now been sent. Someone from the Bahai community will contact you shortly. Also, tons of conservative, orthodox, even fundamentalist traditional morality in Bahai law. How very interesting,I too declared the same time but now find myself so spiritually down in the mouth, I take great objection to the anti-homosexual stance having got dear friends that are homosexual, also I actually enjoy the occasional glass of wine in the evening with my husband, the Bahai Calendar continues to baffle me and I cant get to grips with this fasting business, oh dear.Im not actually a bad person but find the faith quite difficult, I intend withdrawing from the faith as Im certainly not spiritually fulfilled, the people are nice but its not for me anymore. Baha'is have also been discriminated against in Yemen and in Egypt. Hi, exmuslim atheist here. Cults often promote violence, and Bahais are peaceful, non-violent citizens. These are worded in a way to seem like crazy conspiracies. Others step inside, behold its beauty, but do not penetrate far. There is, of course the right of appeal from the Local to the National Assembly, and from that to Shoghi Effendi,* but the matter ought to be dealt with, in the first instance, by the Local Spiritual Assembly. "When a difficulty is brought out into the daylight and freely discussed by a duly authorized and responsible group of people who are sincerely desirous of finding the best solution and are free from prejudice or personal motive, then there is a good chance of overcoming it, but discussion of the faults of others behind their backs by unauthorized people who have no authority to take action in the matter, is surely one of the most fertile causesprobably THE most fertile causeof disunity, and the importance of putting an end to this practice should be impressed on all Bahs.". The problem is that everything you hear in the news is about the superficiality, immorality, and degradation of Hollywood. We are like ploughmen each of whom has his team to manage and his plough to direct, and in order to keep his furrow straight he must keep his eye on his goal and concentrate on his own task. In the temples there is no preaching; services consist of recitation of the scriptures of all religions. "You also ask what one should do to 'handle depression and anger with someone' one feels 'very positively about'. Rather, Bahais look to the spiritual teachings of the Bab and Bahaullah, as interpreted and elucidated by Abdul-Baha, for inspiration and guidance. 10, on page 138, there is a record of a reply given by Abdul-Bah in a private interview in Paris in 1913. Throughout his life, Bah'u'llah penned over 100 volumes in Arabic and Persian. ", "an unwise act or statement by a Bah in one country could result in a grave set-back for the Faith there or elsewhereand even loss of the lives of fellow believers. In 1852, two years after the execution of the Bb, a fringe element in the . by Jeremy Butler | Mar 25, 2010 | Baha'i, World Religions. Do it yourself clergy aka the horrible administrative order, no politics allowed aka also another side effect of the administrative order as a model for the world at large, no alcohol drugs gambling gossip sex outside of heterosexual monogamy aka loads and loads of rules, etc are all drawbacks of being a Bahai. We were married the following year. But the enemies who call themselves friends and who persistently violate every fundamental law of love and unity, are difficult to be dealt with in this day, for the mercy of God is still great. [27] Soon after his resignation, Cole created an email list and website called H-Bahai, which became a repository of both primary source material and critical analysis on the religion. The Bahai House of Worship in North America is in the town where two generations of my family lived before me Wilmette, Illinois, just outside of Chicago. ", "When criticism and harsh words arise within a Bah community, there is no remedy except to put the past behind one, and persuade all concerned to turn over a new leaf, and for the sake of God and His Faith refrain from mentioning the subjects which have led to misunderstanding and inharmony. The followers of such sects are labeled Covenant-breakers, shunned, and viewed as enemies of the faith. Thanks for the post. The Bahs must be distinguished from others of humanity. [23], The Bah teachings emphasize the need for unity, and have an official line of succession of leadership to prevent schism. More recently I found that the Dalai Lama said something similar in just two paragraphs of his 10-chapter book, he says hes not an advocate of religious syncretism such as you find in Bahaism.. 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