Joaquimma Anna

Community Building and Justice – Hand in Hand

The interconnection between community building and justice is a salient principle within the Bahá’í teachings, propelling individuals and societies towards a new paradigm in both personal and collective endeavors. This discourse elucidates the historical and philosophical threads linking community and justice and examines how these elements operate synergistically to foster a more harmonious society. In … Read more

Can We Reform Religion Without Losing Its Spirit?

The notion of reforming religion without sacrificing its intrinsic spirit has long captivated scholars, theologians, and spiritual seekers alike. The Baha’i Faith, with its emphasis on unity, justice, and the progressive revelation of truth, offers a compelling framework to explore this pressing inquiry. In an era of rapid societal change and increasing pluralism, the exploration … Read more

The Double Epoch: Navigating a Time of Spiritual Transition

The concept of the Double Epoch represents a poignant period of transition within the Bahá’í Faith, symbolizing a profound spiritual evolution that intersects with human civilization’s advancement. This era, defined by the juxtaposition of the old world, with its outdated paradigms, and the emergent new world, characterized by revolutionary insights and revelations, invites a deep … Read more

Beyond the Data: How Do Climate Scientists Really Feel?

In contemporary discourse on climate change, the narrative tends to orbit around factual data, projections, and scientific consensus. While these elements are indispensable for understanding the stark realities of a warming planet, they often eclipse the emotional landscapes inhabited by climate scientists themselves. This exploration seeks to delve beyond the mere statistics and measurements, examining … Read more

Africa’s Communities Prepare with Energy and Focus

The Bahá’í teachings provide a unique framework for understanding and fostering the development of Africa’s communities. In the face of the myriad challenges that the continent encounters, the principles of unity, service, and social action articulated in Bahá’í writings stand as a beacon of hope and a guiding light. How might these teachings inspire communities … Read more

The First Step to Unity: How to Discover and Admit Our Own Prejudices

In a world increasingly characterized by diversity, one of the most critical tasks we face is the exploration of our own biases. The Baha’i teachings recognize that understanding and overcoming personal prejudices is essential to achieving true unity among individuals and communities. The initial step in this transformative journey involves a deliberate and profound acknowledgment … Read more

Is Voting Enough? What You Can Do to Improve Society

In contemporary discourse, the act of voting often occupies a place of central importance as a symbol of civic engagement and democratic participation. Yet, amidst the fervor surrounding election cycles, a pertinent question emerges: Is voting enough? This inquiry delves into the essence of Bahá’í teachings, which espouse a holistic approach to societal betterment. The … Read more

Accompaniment: Unlocking the Hidden Potential in Others

In the intricate tapestry of the Bahá’í teachings, the notion of accompaniment emerges as an ethereal thread that weaves together the fabric of communal and individual potentiality. This principle transcends mere companionship; it embodies an active, compassionate engagement in the developmental journeys of others. The concept of accompaniment is akin to an artist working alongside … Read more

Can a Whole Culture Turn Narcissistic?

The phenomenon of cultural narcissism, particularly in the modern context, conjures images of a society entrenched in an interminable cycle of self-admiration and vanity. Dictating the ethos of entire communities, this psychological affliction subtly transforms the very foundations of social interaction and civic responsibility. To understand how Bahai teachings can illuminate this complex issue, we … Read more

A Letter to a Black Man – Bahá’í Teachings on Dignity and Justice

The Bahá’í teachings, rooted in the principles of unity, justice, and dignity, offer profound insights into the human condition, particularly regarding the experiences of marginalized communities. A significant embodiment of these teachings is found in the letter addressed to Dana Dorsey, a pioneering African American community leader in the early 20th century. This correspondence ultimately … Read more