 |
Bahá'í
Faith Information |
| |
News |
| |
Bookstore |
| |
Just
for fun |
| |
 |
Upcoming Events
(You must log in to see all events) |
|
|
The Purpose of Religion
Bahá'í's see religion as more than a series of beliefs or a
set of customs. It is the greatest of all means for establishing order and
peace in the world. Its unchanging purpose, in Bahá'u'lláh's
words is "to safeguard the interests and promote the unity of the human race,
and to foster the spirit of love and fellowship amongst men." (1)
The Oneness of God
Bahá'u'lláh teaches that there is only one God, the loving Creator
of the universe. Various religions call Him by different names, but He is
the same ancient, eternal, unknowable Essence. He is the one goal for which
everything in nature yearns. His love enriches us, and turning to Him and
learning about Him brings spiritual joy that cannot be found elsewhere. (1)
The Oneness of Humanity
One of Bahá'u'lláh's central teachings is the oneness of humanity.
He declares that we are all children of God, all members of one human family.
Our true reality is spiritual, rather than physical. Our purpose in life is
to know and worship God, to serve His Cause, and to proclaim His Word. Our
efforts to fulfill that purpose cause us to grow spiritually and ensure the
happiness, progress, and eternal life of our soul. (1)
The Nature and Role of the Manifestations of God
Although we cannot have direct knowledge of God, we can learn about Him through
the divine educators He has lovingly sent to teach us and awaken our souls.
These divine educators are not simply ordinary people chosen to be God's Messengers.
They possess innate, divine knowledge that enables Them to formulate the teachings
and laws needed at each stage of human existence. Each has a Dispensation,
the period of time when His laws and commandments prevail. The Manifestations
of God develop our spiritual nature, awaken virtues that lie dormant in our
souls, and guide human progress. Their teachings and writings are the Word
of God. (1)
| 1. |
National Spiritual Assembly of the Bahá'ís
of the United States
"Welcome to the Bahá'í Faith", p. 4-6 |
|
