Bahaism, also known as the Baháʼí Faith, is a religion founded in the 19th century by Baháʼu’lláh. It emphasizes the unity of all religions, the oneness of humanity, and social progress. Key tenets include the belief that all religions are manifestations of one God and that the founders of major faiths have been divine messengers.
Key aspects of Bahaism:
- Oneness of God and Humanity: Bahaism teaches that there is one God, unknowable in essence, who is the Creator and absolute ruler of the universe. It also emphasizes the unity of all humankind, regardless of race, religion, or class.
- Progressive Revelation: Bahaism believes that God has manifested Himself through a series of divine messengers throughout history, each bringing a progressive revelation adapted to the needs of their time.
- Rejection of Ritualism: Bahaism does not have a priesthood or prescribed rituals, and prayer is primarily a personal, devotional act.
- Social Ethics: A large part of Bahaism’s teachings focus on social justice, equality, and the pursuit of a better world.
- Baháʼu’lláh and the Báb: Baháʼu’lláh is considered the founder of Bahaism, while the Báb is seen as his forerunner.
- World Religion: Bahaism aims to be a unifying force among all religions and people, advocating for peace and international cooperation.
- Equality: Bahaism promotes the principle of equality among all people, regardless of gender, race, or religion.
- Education: Education is highly valued in Bahaism, with a focus on developing individuals’ intellectual and spiritual potential.
- No Public Rituals: Bahaism does not have public rituals or sacraments.
- Universal House of Justice: The highest governing body of the Baháʼí Faith is the Universal House of Justice
Bahaism claims that they have over 6 million followers spread in over 235 countries and territories.
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The Bahai faith has a significant presence in Bristol, with a dedicated community and various activities. They have a dedicated spiritual assembly, a local center, and a historical site linked to ‘Abdu’l-Bahá, the son of Baháʼu’lláh, who visited Bristol in 1911 and 1913, leaving a lasting impact on the local community.
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Spiritual Assembly:The Spiritual Assembly of the Baháʼís of Bristol is a registered charity focused on advancing the Baháʼí Faith and promoting its ideals.
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Local Center:The Bristol Baháʼí Centre is located at 8 Church Road, Lawrence Hill, and serves as a meeting place for the community.
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Historical Site:The apartment at 17 Royal York Crescent, where ‘Abdu’l-Bahá stayed during his visits to Bristol, is now open to visitors for prayer, meditation, and viewing archival items.
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Activities:The community organizes devotional meetings, children’s classes, youth activities, study sessions, and interfaith involvement.
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Interfaith Involvement:The Baha’i Faith in Bristol is involved in interfaith initiatives, promoting understanding and cooperation among different religions.
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Community:The Bristol Baha’i community is dedicated to promoting the teachings of the Faith and fostering a spirit of unity and service
At the Bahai Convention, Cllr Tom Aditya added that Baha’u’llah’s teachings of unity of God, unity of religion, unity of humanity, unity in diversity, equality between men and women, elimination of all forms of prejudice, world peace, new world order, harmony of religion and science, independent investigation of truth, principle of ever-advancing civilization, universal education, elimination of extremes of wealth and poverty, spiritual solutions to material problems and the concept of universal language continue to inspire people around the world. Bahais learn from that great soul’s generosity and wisdom; and follow his principles of mutual acceptance and fellowship. Bahai faithful faced lots of persecutions, but the enduring community successfully thrived against all those obstacles and have been flourishing wonderfully.
The Bahai community in Bristol is renowned for its friendship and fellowship. Bahá’í Houses of Worships are also world renowned and aesthetically elegant. People are mesmerized by the distinctive architectural beauty and design of Bahai temples at Wilmette, near Chicago in USA; Hofheim-Langenhain near Frankfurt in Germany, Sydney, Australia and the Lotus Temple at Delhi in India.
Useful Links
»» www.bahai-faith.org
»» The Bristol Baha’i Centre. 8 Church Road, Lawrence Hill, Bristol, BS5 9JA, Tel. 0845 873 6014;