FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Welcome to our FAQ page, your comprehensive resource for answers to common questions about the Baha'i Faith. This page aims to provide clear and informative responses to a wide range of inquiries. From the foundational principles of unity and equality to the Baha'i perspective on social issues, spirituality, and community life, we invite you to explore this FAQ to gain a deeper understanding of the teachings and values that inspire millions of Baha'is around the world.
If men and women are equal, why do the Baha'i texts refer to all people as men?
In the Baha'i Faith, the principle of gender equality is fundamental. However, in many of the texts originally composed in Persian, which form a significant part of Baha'i literature, there's a linguistic convention where terms such as "men" or "mankind" are used to encompass all humans, regardless of gender. In Persian, these terms carry a broader meaning, representing humanity as a whole rather than specifically referring to males. Therefore, when Baha'i texts use such terminology, they intend to convey the equality and universality of all individuals, irrespective of gender.
Why won't a Baha'i talk politics with me?
Baha'is are actively engaged in their communities and societies, including voting in elections. However, when it comes to engaging in political discussions, some Baha'is may choose to avoid them.
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The Baha'i Faith emphasizes unity and justice as fundamental principles. The divisive nature of traditional political discourse, particularly within a two-party system, can foster polarization and contention rather than promoting unity. Baha'is strive to transcend partisan divides and work towards the betterment of society as a whole, focusing on principles and actions that promote unity and justice.
Engaging in divisive political debates can hinder individuals from experiencing the oneness of humanity, a central concept in the Baha'i teachings. Baha'is believe in the essential unity of all people and the importance of fostering harmony and understanding among diverse individuals and communities. Political discourse often highlights differences and can create barriers to recognizing our shared humanity.
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While Baha'is participate in electoral processes, they choose to eschew engaging in divisive political discussions as a means of upholding the principles of unity, justice, and the oneness of humanity that are central to their faith. Instead, they may focus on constructive dialogue and actions that promote the common good and contribute to the advancement of society.
Why is there no clergy in the Baha'i faith?
In earlier manifestations of God, like Jesus and Mohammad, people were illiterate and relied on the clergy for religious clarification, explanation, and guidance. Today, education is more and more available to people all over the globe, and educated people can study and interpret the writings through their own eyes. The aim of a true teacher is to prepare the student to do without the teacher. In the Baha'i faith, each person is in charge of his or her own spiritual development.
How do I become a Baha'i?
A person becomes a Bahá’í by recognizing Bahá’u’lláh as the Messenger of God for this age and informing the Bahá’í community of their desire to join the Bahá’í Faith. A representative will contact you to confirm your decision. For immediate assistance, please call 800-22 UNITE (1-800-228-6483). Phones are staffed between 8:30am and 5:30pm Central.
Does the Baha'i faith have a holy book similar to the Bible or the Quran?
Yes, the Baha'i Faith does have sacred texts that play a similar role to the Bible or the Quran in other religious traditions. The primary authoritative texts of the Baha'i Faith are the writings of its founder, Baha'u'llah, who is regarded as the latest in a line of prophets that includes figures such as Abraham, Moses, Buddha, Jesus, and Muhammad. Baha'u'llah's writings encompass a wide range of genres, including prayers, letters, books, and essays, which collectively form the core of Baha'i scripture.
The most important work is the Kitab-i-Aqdas, which is often referred to as the Most Holy Book. It contains laws and principles for personal conduct, social organization, and the spiritual advancement of humanity. Additionally, there are numerous other works written by Baha'u'llah, including the Hidden Words, the Seven Valleys, and the Book of Certitude, among others, which explore various aspects of spiritual truth and guidance.
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Apart from Baha'u'llah's writings, the Baha'i Faith also recognizes the works of the Bab, the forerunner of Baha'u'llah, and Abdu'l-Baha, Baha'u'llah's son and appointed successor, as authoritative sources of guidance and inspiration.
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Overall, while the Baha'i Faith does not have a single book equivalent to the Bible or the Quran, its sacred texts, primarily those authored by Baha'u'llah, serve as the foundation of its teachings and provide spiritual guidance for its followers.