Blog

Losing My Mother: A Baha’i Reflection on Grief and the Afterlife

Grief is an intricate tapestry of emotions—an experience marked by profound sorrow, inconsolable longing, and unexpected moments of joy. For those who navigate the loss of a loved one, such as a mother, the process can become particularly kaleidoscopic, as one struggles to reconcile the finality of death with the cherished memories of life. Within … Read more

Heaven and Hell: Internal Conditions Not Physical Places

The conceptualization of heaven and hell has captivated human minds across cultures and epochs. Within the framework of Bahá’í teachings, a profound shift in perspective emerges: these states are understood not as tangible locations but as internal conditions of the soul. This article delves into this enlightening notion, encouraging readers to reflect on the implications … Read more

Choosing Community Wisely – Building Where the Heart Feels at Home

In an ever-evolving world where connectivity through technology often overshadows face-to-face interactions, the importance of cultivating a nurturing community cannot be overemphasized. The Bahá’í teachings provide profound insights on how to choose communities wisely and create environments where individuals feel genuinely at home. This exploration emphasizes the sanctity of communal bonds and advocates for a … Read more

Circumcision – Abraham’s Healthy Sacrifice and Its Deeper Meaning

In the vast tapestry of religious beliefs worldwide, the Bahá’í Faith invites followers to introspectively examine the essence of human experience through the lens of divine revelations. One of the intriguing teachings within this framework encompasses circumcision, inspired by the narrative of Abraham—a figure revered across multiple theological domains. This rite, often perceived merely as … Read more

Early Black Civic Leaders Who Became Bahá’ís

The intersection of spiritual awakening and civic engagement has significantly shaped the fabric of African American history. Within this milieu, numerous early Black civic leaders emerged as not only champions of social justice but also as fervent adherents of the Bahá’í Faith. This exploration unravels the multifaceted motivations that propelled these individuals towards Bahá’í teachings, … Read more

Finding the Light Within Us

Throughout history, countless individuals have expressed a yearning for something ineffable, a profound truth illuminating the human experience. This pursuit of enlightenment can often lead one to the Bahá’í teachings, which emphasize the necessity of discovering the light that exists within each individual. The concept of “Finding the Light Within” encapsulates several intricate paradigms essential … Read more

When Religion Goes Wrong – The Danger of ‘Ends Justify the Means’ Thinking

In the landscape of human belief systems, the teachings of the Bahá’í Faith offer profound insights into the nature of religion and its consequences when distorted. One of the most poignant observations is the proclivity of adherents to rationalize unethical practices by adhering to the maxim that the “ends justify the means.” This notion, while … Read more

A Spiritual Conversation: How I Explained to My Children What Happens After We Die

The essence of Bahá’í teachings embraces an expansive view of existence, one that transcends the vicissitudes of our earthly experiences. When grappling with the concept of death, especially in conversations with children, it becomes imperative to distill complex ideas into relatable wisdom. The Bahá’í perspective offers a rich tapestry of understanding regarding the afterlife that … Read more

A Selfless Life: How Altruistic Are You?

In our increasingly interconnected world, the pursuit of a selfless life is not merely desirable; it is imperative. The Bahá’í teachings offer profound insights into altruism, encouraging individuals to transcend mere self-interest and embrace the well-being of humanity. This exploration delves into the concept of altruism as articulated in Bahá’í writings, examining its implications for … Read more

Does the Singularity of God Require the Singularity of Religion?

The inquiry into whether the singularity of God necessitates the singularity of religion is both profound and multifaceted. At its core, this contemplation delves into the essence of divinity and its manifestations across varying theological frameworks. The Bahá’í Faith, which espouses the unity of God and the fundamental oneness of humanity, provides a context for … Read more