Baha'is

Definition

Baha'is are followers of the Baha'i Faith, a monotheistic religion founded in the mid-19th century by Baha'u'llah in Persia, which emphasizes the unity of all religions and humanity. The faith advocates for principles such as the equality of men and women, universal peace, and the elimination of prejudice, which has often put its followers at odds with established religious authorities, leading to sectarian tensions and conflicts, particularly in Iran where they have faced significant persecution.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The Baha'i Faith emerged from the Babi religion in the 19th century, which was itself a reform movement within Islam.
2. Baha'is believe in the oneness of humanity and advocate for social justice, education for all, and environmental sustainability.
3. There are an estimated 7 million Baha'is worldwide, with significant populations in countries such as the United States, India, and Africa.
4. In Iran, Baha'is have been subjected to severe persecution since the religion's inception, including imprisonment, discrimination, and execution.
5. The Baha'i administrative order is unique in its democratic practices, where decisions are made collectively without clergy.

Review Questions

• How does the belief system of the Baha'is contribute to sectarian tensions in regions where they are a minority?
  • The belief system of the Baha'is emphasizes unity among all religions and promotes values like equality and peace. This contrasts sharply with more traditional or orthodox views held by other religious groups, particularly in regions like Iran where Islamic authorities see the Baha'i Faith as a heresy. The promotion of these progressive values often leads to backlash from those who feel threatened by these beliefs, resulting in sectarian tensions and conflicts.
• Discuss the historical context that led to the establishment of the Baha'i Faith and its subsequent persecution.
  • The Baha'i Faith was established in a time of social and political upheaval in 19th-century Persia, emerging from the earlier Babi movement that sought reform within Islam. Following Baha'u'llah's declaration as a prophet, his teachings challenged existing religious norms and threatened the authority of established Islamic leaders. This led to intense persecution of Baha'is starting with Baha'u'llah himself being imprisoned and exiled, setting a precedent for ongoing discrimination against Baha'is that continues today.
• Evaluate the impact of Baha'i principles on contemporary discussions surrounding human rights and religious freedom globally.
  • Baha'i principles significantly influence contemporary discussions on human rights and religious freedom through their strong advocacy for equality and justice. Their teachings have inspired movements aimed at combating discrimination based on gender, race, or religion. The global persecution faced by Baha'is highlights urgent issues regarding religious freedom and human rights violations, prompting international attention and calls for policy changes. As a result, the principles laid out by Baha'u'llah can serve as both a model for inclusive societies and a rallying point for those fighting against injustice.

Related terms

Baha'u'llah: The founder of the Baha'i Faith who claimed to be the latest in a line of prophets or 'Manifestations of God' that include figures like Jesus, Muhammad, and Moses.

Persecution: The systematic mistreatment of individuals or groups based on their beliefs or identities, particularly relevant to the Baha'is who have faced oppression and violence in various countries, especially Iran.

Unity of Religion: A core teaching of the Baha'i Faith that posits all major world religions share a common foundation and purpose, promoting harmony among different faiths.