Bahá'í Faith
Bahá'ís believe in one God who has sent a series of messengers, and work for the unity of humanity.
Founded in 19th-century Persia by Bahá'u'lláh.
Core ideas
- Unity of God, of religion and of humanity
- Equality of women and men; harmony of science and religion
- Service to the community
Common practices
- Daily prayer
- Nineteen Day Feast
- Devotional gatherings and study circles
There are no clergy; most activity happens in homes and local centers, open to all.
Sacred texts
All traditions' scriptures →Bahá'ís read the writings of Bahá'u'lláh, the Báb and 'Abdu'l-Bahá, and devotional gatherings often include readings from other faiths' scriptures as well.
Writings of Bahá'u'lláh
Original language: Persian and Arabic
The Kitáb-i-Aqdas (the Most Holy Book) sets out laws and institutions; the Kitáb-i-Íqán (the Book of Certitude) explains how revelation unfolds across religions; The Hidden Words is a short book of spiritual counsels many people start with.
Read free online or in an app
- Bahá'í Reference Library · The official, free library of Bahá'í writings in English and the original languages.
Visiting a local community
Bahá'í community
Local communities that host devotional gatherings, children's classes and study circles.
Beliefs: All the major religions come from the same God.
Worship: Readings from many scriptures, music and conversation; no sermons or rituals.
On a first visit
- Devotional gatherings are informal and often in someone's home.