Joaquimma Anna

Does War Have Rules – and Do We Follow Them?

In contemplating the Bahá’í perspective on the ethical complexities of war, one might provocatively inquire: Does war possess inherent rules, and if so, are we diligent in adhering to them? The Bahá’í teachings provide a nuanced framework that challenges prevailing notions of conflict and introduces an ethical compass that must guide human conduct, even in … Read more

Eve and Adam and Climate Change – Lessons from the Garden

The narrative of Adam and Eve, as articulated within Bahá’í teachings, extends well beyond a simple creation account; it serves as a profound allegory for human evolution, moral choices, and our intrinsic relationship with the environment. The Garden of Eden becomes a symbolic landscape through which we can explicate contemporary issues, including climate change. This … Read more

A Tapestry of Cultures: How I Can Feel American

The collective identity of a nation is woven from an intricate tapestry of cultures, beliefs, and histories, coalescing into what we perceive as national identity. In the case of the United States, this tapestry is particularly rich, comprising threads from various corners of the Earth. The Bahá’í Faith offers profound teachings that can profoundly enrich … Read more

Killing for Real Estate: A Baha’i Reflection on Greed and War

In contemporary society, the juxtaposition of greed and its catastrophic ramifications is starkly manifest in the bitter conflicts surrounding real estate. The phenomenon, colloquially termed “killing for real estate,” illustrates a pressing moral quandary that transcends ordinary ethics. It reveals a profound intersection of materialism, covetousness, and warfare—concepts that are antithetical to Baha’i teachings, which … Read more

Does God Cause Suffering? A Baha’i Perspective on Innocence and Hardship

The exploration of suffering and its place within the tapestry of human existence is a profound inquiry, particularly within the context of Baha’i teachings. Central to the Baha’i perspective is the concept of a loving and merciful God, who does not willfully impose suffering upon humanity. Instead, suffering is viewed as a facet of the … Read more

Do Strong People Come from Strong Families – Or Somewhere Else?

The question of whether strong people emerge from strong families—a notion deeply ingrained in societal discourse—merits a profound examination through the lens of Bahá’í teachings. The intersection of personal strength and familial influence presents an intriguing dichotomy that provokes not just speculation but a necessary reevaluation of the origins of resilience and character development. At … Read more

The Bahá’í Faith the United Nations and the Dream of Universal Peace

The Bahá’í Faith, an independent world religion founded in the 19th century, centers on the belief in the oneness of humanity and the interconnectedness of all global systems. This belief is profoundly reflected in its relationship with the United Nations, an institution conceived to promote international cooperation and peace. Through the lens of Bahá’í teachings, … Read more

Creation Story – Balancing Mind and Spirit

In the realm of spiritual exploration, the Baha’i teachings present a profound narrative concerning the Creation Story—one that emphasizes the intricate balance of mind and spirit. This essence compels us to ponder: how do we navigate the dualities of our existence while striving for harmony? This question is not merely rhetorical; it poses a compelling … Read more

Education as a Tool: Overcoming Prejudice Through Learning

In an ever-diversifying world, the quest for knowledge stands as a venerable bulwark against the corrosive forces of prejudice. The Bahá’í teachings, which advocate for the oneness of humanity and the elimination of all forms of discrimination, regard education as an essential instrument for fostering unity and understanding. This essay will elucidate the pivotal role … Read more