On May 29th each year, Bahá'ís around the world gather to commemorate the Ascension of Bahá'u'lláh, the founder of the Bahá'í Faith. This solemn yet inspiring occasion marks the anniversary of Bahá'u'lláh’s passing in 1892 and serves as a time for reflection, prayer, and unity.
Who Was Bahá'u'lláh?
Bahá'u'lláh, born Mírzá Ḥusayn-`Alí Núrí in 1817 in Persia (modern-day Iran), is the prophet-founder of the Bahá'í Faith. His teachings emphasize the oneness of humanity, the unity of all religions, and the establishment of universal peace. Throughout his life, Bahá'u'lláh faced severe persecution and exile, yet he continued to spread his message of love and unity.
Significance of the Ascension
The Ascension of Bahá'u'lláh marks the anniversary of his passing on May 29, 1892, in the Mansion of Bahjí, near Acre (in present-day Israel). For Bahá'ís, this day is a time to honor Bahá'u'lláh’s life and teachings, and to reflect on the impact of his message on their personal lives and the world.
Commemorating the Day
The Ascension of Bahá'u'lláh is observed with reverence and devotion. Here are some of the common ways Bahá'ís commemorate this holy day:
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Prayers and Devotions: Communities and individuals gather to recite special prayers revealed by Bahá'u'lláh and his son, `Abdu'l-Bahá. These prayers often focus on themes of unity, peace, and gratitude.
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Reading from the Writings: Passages from the writings of Bahá'u'lláh, such as "The Hidden Words" and "The Seven Valleys," are read and reflected upon. These readings inspire believers to live according to Bahá'u'lláh’s teachings.
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Community Gatherings: Bahá'ís come together in their local communities for devotional meetings and to share reflections on Bahá'u'lláh’s life. These gatherings foster a sense of unity and solidarity among participants.
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Visiting Holy Places: For those who can, visiting the Shrine of Bahá'u'lláh in Bahjí is a profound way to honor his memory. The shrine is considered the holiest place on earth for Bahá'ís and a focal point for pilgrimage.
Reflections on Bahá'u'lláh’s Teachings
The Ascension of Bahá'u'lláh is not only a time for commemoration but also for deep reflection on his teachings. Bahá'u'lláh’s vision for humanity includes several key principles:
- Unity of Humankind: Bahá'u'lláh taught that all humans are members of one family, and barriers of race, nation, and religion should be dissolved.
- Equality of Men and Women: He emphasized the importance of gender equality for the advancement of society.
- Harmony of Science and Religion: Bahá'u'lláh believed that true science and true religion must be in harmony, as both seek to understand reality.
- Universal Education: He advocated for the education of all people, viewing it as essential for personal and societal development.
A Time for Renewal
As Bahá'ís around the world honor the Ascension of Bahá'u'lláh, they also renew their commitment to his vision of a peaceful and united world. This day serves as a reminder of the enduring relevance of Bahá'u'lláh’s message and the ongoing effort to build a global community based on justice, love, and mutual respect.
Whether through quiet prayer, community gatherings, or visiting holy sites, the commemoration of the Ascension of Bahá'u'lláh is a deeply spiritual occasion that inspires believers to reflect on their lives and recommit to the principles of their faith