Bahá'í Beliefs






The Bahá'í Faith is a monotheistic religion founded in Persia in 1863 by Bahá'u'lláh. It teaches that humanity is one family, that all the world's major religions come from the same God, and that humanity is moving toward greater unity and peace.
The central teachings include:
1. The Oneness of God
Bahá'ís believe there is one God who is the Creator of the universe. Although different religions use different names and descriptions of God, they all refer to the same divine reality.
2. The Oneness of Religion
Bahá'ís believe that God has progressively revealed His guidance through a series of divine messengers, each suited to the needs of humanity at a particular time.
This concept is known as progressive revelation. Bahá'ís believe Bahá'u'lláh is the most recent messenger of God, though not the last.
3. The Oneness of Humanity
All people belong to one human family regardless of race, nationality, ethnicity, or culture. Diversity is viewed as a strength, like the beautiful variety of flowers in a garden.
4. Equality of Women and Men
The equality of women and men is a fundamental spiritual principle. Bahá'ís believe societies flourish when women and men have equal opportunities.
5. Elimination of Prejudice
Overcoming prejudice based on race, religion, nationality, gender, or social class is crucial for the development of humanity.
6. Universal Education
Education is considered both a right and a responsibility. Every child should receive an education that develops our intellectual, moral, and spiritual capacities.
7. Harmony of Science and Religion
Bahá'ís believe that science and religion are complementary ways of discovering truth. Genuine science and true religion agree.
8. Independent Investigation of Truth
Individuals are encouraged to seek truth for themselves rather than simply accepting beliefs or traditions.
9. World Peace and Global Unity
The Bahá'í Faith advocates:
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International cooperation
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Collective security among nations
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Human rights
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Economic justice
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Consultation as a means of resolving conflict
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Care for the environment and the well-being of future generations
10. Spiritual Development
The purpose of life is to know God and develop spiritual qualities such as:
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Love
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Kindness
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Honesty
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Justice
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Humility
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Patience
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Generosity
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Service to others
Prayer, meditation, study of sacred writings, and service to humanity are all seen as means of spiritual growth.
Bahá'í Community Life
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Pray daily and read from the Bahá'í writings.
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Celebrate nineteen annual feast gatherings for worship, fellowship, and community consultation.
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Have no clergy. Local, national, and international affairs are administered by democratically elected councils.
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People of all faiths are welcome to the Houses of Worship for prayer and reflection.


As of 2026, 14 Bahá'í Houses of Worship have been completed around the world. They are open to people of all religions for prayer, meditation, and reflection. Bahá'í Houses of Worship are intended to serve as spiritual centers that, over time, are complemented by institutions dedicated to education, healthcare, and social service.
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Bahá'í House of Worship, Wilmette (North America)
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Bahá'í House of Worship, Kampala (Africa)
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Bahá'í House of Worship, Sydney (Australia)
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Bahá'í House of Worship, Langenhain (Europe)
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Bahá'í House of Worship, Panama City (Central America)
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Bahá'í House of Worship, Samoa (Pacific)
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Lotus Temple (Indian)
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Bahá'í House of Worship, Santiago (South America)
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Bahá'í House of Worship, Battambang (Asia)
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Bahá'í House of Worship, Agua Azul (South America)
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Bahá'í House of Worship, Democratic Republic of the Congo (Africa)
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Bahá'í House of Worship, Papua New Guinea (Pacific)
Additional Houses of Worship are planned or under development in places such as Bihar Sharif (India), Matunda Soy (Kenya), and Tanna (Vanuatu) as Bahá'í communities continue to grow. For additional information, visit the Bahá'í World article.