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Bahai Faith -- Doctrines Books
Best books
ʻAbdu'l-Bahá
Some Answered Questions
"Some Answered Questions" by ʻAbdu'l-Bahá is a spiritual and philosophical text written in the late 19th century. This work serves as a collection of responses to inquiries regarding various aspects of religion, humanity, and the nature of God. It delves into the influence of divine educators throughout history, particularly focusing on figures such as Abraham, Moses, Jesus Christ, Muhammad, and the Báb, as well as Bahá'u'lláh, the founder of the Bahá'í Faith. The opening of the book establishes a framework highlighting the significance of divine laws governing nature and humanity. ʻAbdu'l-Bahá argues for the existence of a supreme creator through logical reasoning, emphasizing that the complexities and order of nature cannot arise without an intelligent force behind them. He articulates the necessity of an educator for humanity to flourish, suggesting that without divine guidance and education, society would regress into chaos. This portion not only sets the stage for deeper discussions but also appeals to readers' intellectual and spiritual curiosities about the role of divine teachers and the evolution of human understanding.
Bahá'u'lláh
The Seven Valleys and the Four Valleys
"The Seven Valleys and the Four Valleys" by Bahá'u'lláh is a Persian mystical work written around 1857-1858. Written for a Sufi judge, it maps the soul's spiritual journey through seven ascending stages toward God, following the structure of a classical Persian poem. Each valley represents a transformation—from search and love through knowledge and unity, to final annihilation of self. Highly poetic and rich with Sufi references, the text explores how seekers progress from earthly attachment to divine understanding, achieving what may take lifetimes in mere breaths.
Bahá'u'lláh
Tablets of Bahá'u'lláh Revealed after the Kitab-i-Aqdas
"Tablets of Bahá'u'lláh Revealed after the Kitab-i-Aqdas" by Bahá'u'lláh is a collection of writings published in 1978. These tablets were written by the founder of the Bahá'í Faith during the final years of his life, from 1873 to 1892. The collection includes pivotal texts addressing themes of global unity, religious tolerance, and social reform. Among them are the Tablet of Carmel, which establishes the Bahá'í World Centre, and proclamations calling for peace, universal language, and the abandonment of religious warfare.
Bahá'u'lláh
The Hidden Words of Bahá'u'lláh
"The Hidden Words of Bahá'u'lláh" by Bahá'u'lláh is a book written around 1858. Composed while walking along the Tigris river during exile in Baghdad, this collection contains 153 brief aphorisms—71 in Arabic and 82 in Persian. Each passage speaks directly to the reader in God's voice, offering distilled spiritual truths meant to be read daily. The invocations address "O Son of Spirit" and "O Son of Man," guiding readers toward divine virtues, love, detachment, and the inner life of the soul.
Bahá'u'lláh
The Kitáb-i-Íqán
"The Kitáb-i-Íqán" by Bahá'u'lláh is a theological work written in 1861. Composed in Baghdad over two days and nights, this book addresses fundamental questions about divine revelation and religious truth. It argues that all major religions are connected through progressive revelation, each prophesying the next. Through biblical and Quranic interpretation, it demonstrates how sacred texts can be understood allegorically to recognize new messengers of God, ultimately defending the mission of the Báb while containing veiled references to Bahá'u'lláh's own station.
Bahá'u'lláh
Gleanings from the Writings of Bahá'u'lláh
"Gleanings from the Writings of Bahá'u'lláh" by Bahá'u'lláh is a compilation published in 1935. Selected and translated by Shoghi Effendi, this collection presents passages from Bahá'u'lláh's writings spanning 1853 to 1892. The work explores five major themes: the "Day of God," the Manifestation of God, the soul's immortality, world order and peace, and individual spiritual duties. Drawing from various tablets and works, it offers readers a broad introduction to the founder's teachings and the Bahá'í Revelation's essential concepts.
Universal House of Justice
The Promise of World Peace
"The Promise of World Peace" by the Universal House of Justice is a document published in October 1985 for the International Year of Peace. It argues that world peace is not only possible but inevitable, challenging beliefs about human nature and conflict. The statement identifies major obstacles to peace—including racism, inequality, nationalism, and religious strife—and calls for a fundamental transformation in how humanity views itself. Presented to nearly 200 heads of state and translated into 76 languages, it proposes that lasting peace requires recognizing humanity as one family.
ʻAbdu'l-Bahá
‘Abdu'l-Bahá in London
"‘Abdu'l-Bahá in London" by ʻAbdu'l-Bahá is a historical account written in the early 20th century. The text chronicles the significant visit of ʻAbdu'l-Bahá to various venues in London, where he addresses diverse audiences about the principles of the Bahá'í Faith, advocating for unity, spirituality, and the oneness of humanity. The dialogues presented in this book reflect his key teachings and interactions, aiming to promote peace and understanding between the East and West. The opening of the text describes the initial moments of ʻAbdu'l-Bahá's arrival and his first address at the City Temple on September 10th, 1911. He captures the attention of a filled congregation with his remarks on the spiritual evolution of humanity and the imperative of unity among all people. The introduction reveals his revered status as a messenger from the East, and the assembly's response illustrates the powerful impact of his message on the attendees. Through the opening passages, readers gain insight into the themes of love, brotherhood, and faith that recur throughout his speeches, setting the tone for his mission during this landmark visit.
Bahá'í International Community
The Prosperity of Humankind
"The Prosperity of Humankind" by Bahá'í International Community is a philosophical and theological publication written in the late 20th century. This work discusses concepts of global development and the essential principles needed to foster a united and just society that aligns with the Bahá'í teachings. The book aims to highlight the interconnectedness of humanity and the importance of a collective approach to addressing global challenges. In this statement, the Bahá'í International Community emphasizes that true prosperity cannot be achieved solely through material gains but must also encompass spiritual and social dimensions. The text delves into themes of justice, unity, and the role of education in empowering individuals and communities to engage responsibly in the development process. It argues against materialistic assumptions in current development strategies and advocates for a comprehensive rethinking of human relationships, fostering genuine collaboration among all people while recognizing their individual capabilities and rights. The call for a new global consciousness reflects the urgency of responding to the pressing issues facing humanity as it advances toward the establishment of a unified global society.
Bahá'u'lláh
The Summons of the Lord of Hosts
"The Summons of the Lord of Hosts" by Bahá'u'lláh is a collection of tablets written to world rulers during his exile in Adrianople and early imprisonment in Acre in 1868. Claiming to be the Promised One of all religions, Bahá'u'lláh summoned kings and leaders of East and West to recognize him. The collection includes messages to Pope Pius IX, Napoleon III, Tsar Alexander II, Queen Victoria, and the Persian Shah, arranged within the symbolic form of a five-pointed temple, fulfilling ancient prophecies about divine revelation.
Bahá'í International Community
One Common Faith
"One Common Faith" by Bahá'í International Community is a significant publication addressing religious unity in a rapidly changing world, written in the early 21st century. This book leans towards a philosophical and spiritual discourse rather than fitting neatly into a specific genre, emphasizing the interconnectedness of human beliefs and the necessity for a common spiritual foundation to foster peace and collaboration among diverse religions. The central topic focuses on the Bahá'í perspective of unity in diversity and the role of religion as a moral and ethical guide critical to addressing global challenges. In "One Common Faith," the authors explore the growing global interest in religion amidst contemporary crises, advocating for an understanding that transcends sectarian divides. The text emphasizes that historical faiths have contributed substantially to human civilization and moral evolution, yet argues that the present era requires a collective realization of our shared spiritual heritage. By reflecting on the writings of Bahá'u'lláh, the book suggests that recognizing the oneness of humanity and promoting unity is essential for confronting the pressing issues of our time. The discourse underscores the importance of interfaith dialogue and collaboration, promoting a vision of a world where diverse beliefs contribute positively to the collective good, rather than foster division or conflict.
Universal House of Justice
Compilation on Peace
"Compilation on Peace" by the Research Department of the Universal House of Justice is a collection of writings that delve into the theme of peace as espoused within the Bahá'í Faith, likely compiled in the early 21st century. This compilation focuses on the concepts and teachings proposed by key figures of the Bahá'í Faith, such as Bahá'u'lláh and 'Abdu'l-Bahá, regarding the establishment of peace and the unity of humanity. The primary objective of the text is to explore the prerequisites for achieving global harmony and the implications of unity amidst diversity. The opening portion introduces various extracts from the writings of Bahá'u'lláh and 'Abdu'l-Bahá, highlighting fundamental principles that advocate for the oneness of mankind and the significance of unity in achieving peace. It touches on the responsibilities of world leaders and the necessity of collective efforts to foster understanding and collaboration among nations. The texts assert that true peace can only be established when personal aspirations align with the greater good of humanity, leading to a universal awareness and adherence to the divine principles set forth in these teachings. Overall, the beginning of this compilation emphasizes the transformative power of spiritual guidance in the quest for lasting peace.
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