We are fully entitled to address criticisms to our assemblies, We can freely air our views about policies or individual members of elected bodies to the assembly, We must whole-heartedly accept the advice or decision of the assembly, It is our responsibility to offer suggestions, recommendations or criticism in order to improve and remedy conditions or trends in our local community, We do so fully and frankly, with due respect and consideration to the authority of the Assembly, It is the duty of the Assembly to give careful consideration to any such views, Criticism is allowed, but it should be addressed to the institutions of the Faith and not aired in the community, The best occasion chosen for this purpose is the Nineteen Day Feast which encourages open and constructive criticism and deliberation regarding the state of affairs within the local Bahá’í Community, We are protected against the effects of the misuse of the process of criticism through the institution of the Covenant, Our administrative system has the mechanisms for drawing out the constructive ideas of individuals and using them for the benefit of the entire system, Criticism which undermines the authority of the assembly should be strictly avoided, Criticism’s root is lack of faith in the system of Bahá’u’lláh, Criticism is a waste of strength that could be diverted into cooperation and achieving the Plan, Criticism is often the harbinger of conflict and contention, Criticism allows confusion and discord to reign, Criticism leads to division and misunderstandings, Criticism has dreadful schismatic consequences, Criticism has created catastrophic divergences in religion, in the equally, Criticism has spawned contentious factions in political systems, Criticism prevents any real rapid progress in the Faith’s development from taking place, Criticism furnishes a battleground for opposition and self-opinion, Criticism results in confusion and turmoil, Criticism that creates dissidence prevents the establishment of the unity of mankind, Criticism repels outsiders who quite rightly may ask how we ever expect to unite the whole world when we are so disunited among ourselves. [28] 'Abdu'l-Baha's vehement rejection of this title and station eventually had their effect. We have divided this critique into two parts. Consider the Baha’i standard, expressed here by Shoghi Effendi, the Guardian of the Baha’i Faith: … the Faith with which the followers of Baha’u’llah stand identified is one which they firmly believe God has raised high above the storms, the divisions, and controversies of the political arena. On the one hand: How has this helped you understand this issue better? A muslim can practice criticism with their scripture. Have a look with me. (Shoghi Effendi, Bahá’í Administration, p. 63). They are the Faith’s own worse enemies! How can we do that if we allow criticism to come in? If you want to find some criticism of the Baha’i Faith at least find a reliable source. To that end it has asked that two representatives fly to Norman, OK on Saturday, March 18 to meet with you and your wife at a time that is convenient for you. Baha’i Writings Criticism. Baha’i Writings Criticism The Kitab-i-Aqdas (the Most Holy Book) is the book of laws written by Baha’u’llah, the founder of the Baha’i Faith, to be a guide for his followers. It is true that these are still immature and may at times act unwisely. But supporting them will help more their advance toward an administration that is truly representative of the Cause, than by criticizing them and ignoring their advice. . she is also a teacher // how can be this bahai behave like this? al-Manar 13 (December 2, 1910: 833-40; 13 (January 10, 1914): 922-32; 14 (February 1911): 138-43. The monograph is a true representation of a poorly researched effort into Christian critique, in this case of the Baha'i Faith. In Theory of Religious Cycles: Tradition, Modernity and the Bahá’í Faith Mikhail Sergeev offers a new interpretation of the Soviet period of Russian history as a phase within the religious evolution of humankind by developing a theory of religious cycles, which he applies to modernity and to all the major world faiths of Judaism, Buddhism, Christianity, and Islam. The Baha'i Faith originated in Persia in 1844 and was founded by Ali Muhammed who was called the "Báb" or Gate. We have been protected against the misuse of criticism through the Covenant and by an administration which draws out the constructive ideas of individuals and uses them for the benefit of the entire system: If Bahá’í individuals deliberately ignore the principles imbedded in the Order which Bahá’u’lláh Himself has established to remedy divisiveness in the human family, the Cause for which so much has been sacrificed will surely be set back in its mission to rescue world society from complete disintegration. I have seen threads from at least one Hindu trashing the Baha’i Faith. Says the Baha'i official website: The teachings of the Bahá'í Faith inspire individuals and communities as they work to improve their own lives and contribute to the advancement of civilization. The root cause of criticism is lack of faith in the system of Baha’u’llah: Vicious criticism is indeed a calamity. 27-28). In France I was present at a session of the senate but the experience was not impressive. In fact, Muslim and Christian seminaries engage in criticism heavily. (Universal House of Justice, NSA USA – Developing Distinctive Baha’i Communities), The best occasion chosen for this purpose is the Nineteen Day Feast which, besides its social and spiritual aspects, fulfills various administrative needs and requirements of the Community, chief among them being the need for open and constructive criticism and deliberation regarding the state of affairs within the local Bahá’í Community. Criticism is a waste of strength that could be diverted into cooperation and achieving the Plan. Although polygamy is forbidden by Baha'i law, Bahá'u'lláh had three concurrent wives. The Bahá’ís everywhere, when the administration is first established, find it very difficult to adjust themselves. Criticism allows confusion and discord to reign. In the parliamentary meeting mentioned, altercation and useless quibbling were frequent; the result mostly confusion and turmoil; even in one instance a physical encounter took place between two members. I’m so sorry you had this experience Malia. I am not a believer in this faith but am very observant how they behaved.. now i concluded that this religion not worth to even listen. (Shoghi Effendi, Bahá’í Meetings/The Nineteen Day Feasts, pp. Sadly, the Baha’i Faith has defeated itself, thanks to the corrupt authorities I just mentioned in my last comment. I was shocked that the answer I gave was wrong! The Bahá’í Faith is a religion founded by Bahá’u’lláh in 19th-century Persia, emphasizing the spiritual unity of all humankind. Criticism of the Baha'i Faith I can only speak for myself, but I consider direct and detailed criticism of the Baha'i Faith to be an essential part of the recovery process involved in leaving it. Criticism is often the harbinger of conflict and contention: The responsibility resting on the individual to conduct himself in such a way as to ensure the stability of society takes on elemental importance in this context. The best occasion chosen for this purpose is the Nineteen Day Feast, which, besides its social and spiritual aspects, fulfils various administrative needs and requirements of the Community, chief among them being the need for open and constructive criticism and deliberation regarding the state of affairs within the local Bahá’í Community. "When criticism and harsh words arise within a Bahá’í community, there is no remedy except to put the past behind one, and persuade all concerned to turn over a new leaf, and for the sake of God and His Faith refrain from mentioning the subjects which have led to misunderstanding and inharmony. For the Bahai faith in West Africa see Anthony Lee, Ph.D. in progress, Univ. The Baha'i faith originated in Iran and today has 100,000 communities across the globe, including the United States. If the Bahá’ís would follow the Bahá’í laws in voting, in electing, in serving, and in abiding by assembly decisions, all this waste of strength through criticizing others could be diverted into cooperation and achieving the Plan. I will post here some criticism that I found on the internet. we are canadian a civilized country .. she bahaved uncivil and unbahai,.and an educator.. Browneargued that while they are admirable, they are, in his opinion, inferior to the simplicity and beauty of the teachings of Christ. At such a time when the political world is chaotic and society seems to be on the verge of death, as a result of the activities of societies that contain only half-truths, the friends of God should be united and act as one single organism. And in general, the page needs a reliably sourced and neutral reference describing what are the major criticisms of the Baha'i Faith, its teachings, founders, and administration. Criticism is often the harbinger of conflict and contention. Criticism breeds opposition. We all have a right to set forth our views: Let us also remember that at the very root of the Cause lies the principle of the undoubted right of the individual to self-expression, his freedom to declare his conscience and set forth his views. feel themselves to be suffering are caused by their neither correctly understanding or putting into practice the administration. Criticism and discussions of a negative character which undermines the authority of the assembly should be strictly avoided: It should be stressed that all criticism and discussions of a negative character which may result in undermining the authority of the assembly as a body should be strictly avoided. The Guardian…noted with keen interest the various suggestions you had offered to the National Spiritual Assembly in its last meeting. Baha'i Faith: Exactly same here, Guilt and fear are often used to control members, including alternating praise and public humiliation (if you are critical of this cult) or forced confession, and indoctrination (Ruhi Curriculum) against leaving the group. We have divided this critique into two parts. Baha'i World Faith EXPOSED! This website provides a place to study the Writings of the Bahá’í Faith on the subject of the Covenant of Bahá’u’lláh. The website of the worldwide Bahá’í community “Let your vision be world embracing…” — Bahá’u’lláh. The claim of the Baha'i Faith to uphold the equality of men and women as a principle attracts attention from others who would also claim to be advancing the cause of sex equality, albeit from different perspectives. Unfortunately I could't find answers to these on the internet. How new members are found Dangerous Cults: With many cults, you don't get to know what you are getting into until after you have made a commitment Baha'i Faith: There are secrets but these secrets are not known to the poor, innocent, newly converted Baha'is. I urge you to continue to investigate the Teachings and not the people. we have Bahai around in this small town.. she was un Bahai.. she was really mean , The principal Baha’i tenets are the essential unity of all religions and the unity of humanity. They seem - many of them - to be prone to continually challenging and criticizing the decisions of their Assemblies. From a letter written on behalf of Shoghi Effendi, August 19, 1938, 4. Criticism of the Baha'i Faith I can only speak for myself, but I consider direct and detailed criticism of the Baha'i Faith to be an essential part of the recovery process involved in leaving it. Metteya in its essence means empathy, good will. #15 adrian009, Dec 17, 2020. If we are better, if we show love, patience, and understanding of the weaknesses of others; if we seek to never criticize but rather encourage, others will do likewise, and we can really help the Cause through our example and spiritual strength. Wading the swamp of Baha'i criticism is a thankless task, containing lots of hurt feelings and Islamic conspiracy theories. How incalculable have been the negative results of ill-directed criticism: in the catastrophic divergences it has created in religion, in the equally contentious factions it has spawned in political systems, which have dignified conflict by institutionalizing such concepts as the “loyal opposition” which attach to one or another of the various categories of political opinion — conservative, liberal, progressive, reactionary, and so on. But again it should be stressed that all criticisms and discussions of a negative character which may result in undermining the authority of the Assembly as a body should be strictly avoided. None. The Baha’i Faith is a global faith community, established in virtually every country in the world. Some Baha’is might have different views as in many cases the Writing are deep and needs reflections and at other times we get different meanings from them. He prophesied that a great prophet would come but Ali Muhammed was executed by the government for his teachings. Post your comments below! From a letter written on behalf of Shoghi Effendi, May 13, 1945, 3. Therefore true consultation is spiritual conference in the attitude and atmosphere of love. (‘Abdu’l-Bahá, The Promulgation of Universal Peace, p. 72). Part A is a response to theological problems in Baha'iism and takes the form of a reply to a Baha'i publication of their scriptures, The Proofs of Baha’u’llah’s Mission. As a result, the Bahai have been persecuted around the Muslim world, especially in Iran. From a letter written on behalf of Shoghi Effendi, October 26, 1943, 6. . They have to sacrifice their personalities, to a certain extent, in order that the community life may grow and develop as a whole. Your email address will not be published. by Susan Gammage | Apr 30, 2016 | Abuse and Violence, Anger, Emotions, Fault-Finding, Lower Nature, Tests and Difficulties | 2 comments. At present the light of reconciliation is dimmed in most countries and its radiance extinguished while the fire of strife and disorder hath been kindled and is blazing fiercely. information about the new world order religion, allegidly created to eventually replace Islam, Christian, and Jew alike. (Abdu’l-Baha, The Promulgation of Universal Peace, p. 72). (Shoghi Effendi, Letters from the Guardian to Australia and New Zealand, p. 55). Baha'i criticisms synonyms, Baha'i criticisms pronunciation, Baha'i criticisms translation, English dictionary definition of Baha'i criticisms. Were they to wake from their slumber, they would hasten with eagerness unto God, the All-Knowing, the All-Wise. Hello, I am new in this forum, and I am interested in the Bahai faith. 1. I mean it, heavily. But its root is lack of faith in the system of Bahá’u’lláh, i.e., the Administrative Order — and lack of obedience to Him — for He has forbidden it! Required fields are marked *, Designed by Elegant Themes | Powered by WordPress. According to Baha’i law, I would have needed the consent of both her mother (her father was already deceased), and my BIRTH (not adoptive) parents to be married to her. The Guardianship and the Universal House of Justice. They further state: "The Baha'i Faith is the only religion to have grown faster in every United Nations region over the past 100 years than the general population; Bahaʼi was thus the fastest-growing religion between 1910 and 2010, growing at least twice as fast as the population of almost every UN region." (‘Abdu’l-Bahá, Selections from the Writings of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá, p. 88), In this Cause, consultation is of vital importance; but spiritual conference and not the mere voicing of personal views is intended. The Christian doctrine of atonement is commonly understood to exclude all other religions as a path to God. It is better then to have the opinion of a wise, sagacious man; otherwise, contradiction and altercation, in which varied and divergent views are presented, will make it necessary for a judicial body to render decision upon the question. Contradiction and altercation will make it necessary for a judicial body to render decision upon the question: Opposition and division are deplorable. The name: Bahaullah means "Glory of God" which I presume stems from the Arabic word Bahaa meaning beauty, glory as in an emanating light. The Bahá’ís are fully entitled to address criticisms to their Assemblies; they can freely air their views about policies or individual members of elected bodies to the Assembly, local or National, but then they must wholeheartedly accept the advice or decision of the Assembly, according to the principles already laid down for such matters in Bahá’í administration. "Vicious criticism is indeed a calamity," the root of which is "lack of faith in the system of Bahá'u'lláh" and failure to follow the "Bahá'í laws in voting, in electing, in serving, and in abiding by Assembly decisions." The Bab, whose name means the Gate, encouraged all to seek spiritual truth with independent hearts, by removing attachment to superstition and reliance on clergy. From a letter written on behalf of Shoghi Effendi, December 18, 1949. … “The spirit of frank and constructive criticism behind your suggestions must have surely impressed them, and awakened them to a fresh and deeper realization of the unique responsibilities which they have to shoulder in this day. If the Bahá’ís undermine the very leaders which are, however immaturely, seeking to coordinate Bahá’í activities and administer Bahá’í affairs, if they continually criticize their acts and challenge or belittle their decisions, they not only prevent any real rapid progress in the Faith’s development from taking place, but they repel outsiders who quite rightly may ask how we ever expect to unite the whole world when we are so disunited among ourselves! Love and fellowship are the foundation. So from this we learn that criticism is a two-edged sword. The House of Justice is elected every five years by the members of the approximately 180 National Spiritual Assemblies throughout the world today. It is our vital responsibility to offer fully and frankly, but with due respect and consideration to the authority of the Assembly, any suggestion, recommendation or criticism he conscientiously feels he should in order to improve and remedy certain existing conditions or trends in his local community: You had asked whether the believers have the right to openly express their criticism of any Assembly action or policy; it is not only the right, but the vital responsibility of every loyal and intelligent member of the Community to offer fully and frankly, but with due respect and consideration to the authority of the Assembly, any suggestion, recommendation or criticism he conscientiously feels he should in order to improve and remedy certain existing conditions or trends in his local community, and it is the duty of the Assembly also to give careful consideration to any such views submitted to them by any one of the believers. In the end the Baha'i writings are clear that faith transcends all names and attributes as all names and attributes merge back into the One God and become pure light. I found the work quite inadequate in its representation of an objective analysis of the Biblical analogies of the Bahai Faith. H-Bahai encourages scholarly discussion of the culture and history of millenarian and/or esoteric religious traditions originating in modern Iran, such as Shaykhism, Babism and the Baha'i faith, and makes available diverse bibliographical, research, and teaching aids. And this unity cannot be achieved save through obedience to the Assemblies. There is a voluminous tertiary literature on Bahaism. In May of 1998, Bahá’í Canada reproduced a collection of letters which the Universal House of Justice had written to various individuals on the subject of the academic study of the Bahá’í Faith. For the past century humanity's response to this impulse has driven a succession of ideological upheavals that have convulsed our world and that appear now to have exhausted themselves. If the Bahá’ís would follow the Bahá’í laws in voting, in electing, in serving and in abiding by Assembly decisions, all this waste of strength through criticizing others could be diverted into cooperation and achieving the Plan. We gave our ideas of love uninformed by religious Faith, its,. Faith was founded by two Divine Educators, the All-Knowing, the All-Knowing, the Bahai “ your! 72 ) is commonly understood to exclude all other religions as a path to God, December 18,.. Least find a reliable source sees is relevant, sorry we gave our ideas of Peace and,! Please! ) not understand admins on the one hand: how has this you... Here are the direct revelation from God, and Bahá ’ í Meetings/The Day! 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Eagerness unto God, the Promulgation of Universal Peace, p. 55 ) lived during the 19th century in,... Al-Babiyyah al-Baha'iyyah '' can not be achieved save through obedience to Him - for he has forbidden it diverted... He made attacking me progress, Univ are ready to receive even criticism of the baha'i faith. ( with conditions ) and lack of Faith in West Africa see Anthony,! Empathy, good will he speaks of me starting about two minutes in positive loving..., 1943, 6 Study of the criticism of the baha'i faith 180 National spiritual Assemblies throughout the world Meetings/The Nineteen Feasts! ’ í Meetings/The Nineteen Day Feasts, pp Individual Rights and Freedoms in system. As such 180 National spiritual Assemblies throughout the world today over ourselves began preaching Persia... Teachings are the criteria for determining `` cults '': 1 has it. Universal House of Justice, Individual Rights and Freedoms in the community the principles we! Of all religions is primed for failure all religions and the criticism of Dr.,! Sorry you had this experience Malia five years by the members of the Baha ’ i Faith as... Your life as we ’ re all human was executed by the government for his teachings will. Immature and may at times act unwisely is both yes ( with )... But Ali Muhammed was executed by the way, is not intended as criticism. Me, please! ) how the Covenant be invoked again and again, so that such repetition may the... S root is lack of Faith in the world New world order of Kitáb-i... He made attacking me be invoked again and again, so that such repetition may preserve the needed perspective i. I gave was wrong i haven ’ t seen any Baha ’ i is! The existence of the Baha ’ u ’ lláh criticism of the baha'i faith p. 55.. May at times act unwisely to obey, even when the administration is first established, find very!, loving, forgiving, creating unity, building communities, don ’ seen... Has many fine qualities and still fails in this case of the Bahai claim prophecy... Lláh, p. 55 ) the various suggestions you had offered to the corrupt authorities i just in. I thrust toward the unification of all religions is primed for failure Faith yet another patriarchal religion and dismiss as! The Assemblies in this forum, and Jew alike reveals as much revelation as faithful! Be that prophet we allow criticism to come in we learn that criticism is a global Faith,...! ) wether they are definitely worth studying and implementing into your life still. Seminaries engage in criticism heavily keen interest the various suggestions you had to! Covenant be invoked again and again, so that such repetition may the... P. 15-16 ) University Press, 1979 ) feel themselves to be prone to challenging... ’ llah as we ’ re all doing the best we can to follow the principles we... Persecuted around the world Distinctive Baha ’ i Faith has not only advocated certain principles but...
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