FAQs

Useful Info

We’ve compiled a comprehensive list of common questions and answers about The Bahai Faith. Browse the section, and if you can’t find what you’re looking for, get in touch and we’ll be happy to help.

Who is the founder of the Baha'i Faith?

The Baha'i Faith was founded by Baha'u'llah (1817-1892), who the Baha'is believe is the most recent messenger in a long line of Divine Educators including Abraham, Moses, Buddha, Krishna, Zoroaster, Christ, and Muhammad.

When did the Baha'i Faith originate?

The Baha'i Faith originated in Persia in the mid-19th century. Key events include:

1844 - The Bab declared His mission as the forerunner of Baha'u'llah.
1863 - Baha'u'llah proclaimed His mission as the latest Divine Messenger.
1892 - Baha'u'llah passed away after 40 years of exile, imprisonment and banishment.

Where are Baha'is located?

There are over 5 million Baha'is worldwide, making the Baha'i Faith the second-most widespread religion after Christianity. Baha'is live in over 100,000 localities around the world and come from nearly every national, ethnic, social and cultural background.

What are the central teachings of the Baha'i Faith?

Key principles are the oneness of God, the oneness of religion, and the oneness of humanity, the equality of all people, the harmony of science and religion, elimination of prejudice, universal education, the equality of status of women and men, and the need for world peace and global society.

How do Baha'is worship?

Baha'is worship God by daily prayers and service. Dundee Baha'is have weekly meetings that include prayer, music and readings from sacred Baha'i texts. There are also holy days throughout the year when work should be suspended. Bahai's have no clergy or rituals.

What happens at a Baha'i prayer group or devotional meeting?

Baha'i prayers and scripture are read, interspersed with music. Participants reflect on uplifting themes. The mood is meditative, dignified and inclusive. All are welcome regardless of religious background.

How long have Baha'is been in Dundee?

The first Baha'is arrived in Dundee in the 1960's. For over 60 years now, Baha'is of Dundee have been working alongside their fellow citizens to contribute to spiritual and material progress. Baha'is come from all walks of life and aim to apply spiritual and material principles, such as honesty, kindness and service, in their daily lives. The community warmly welcomes anyone interested in building unity through prayer, education and acts of service.

Are there Baha'is in other parts of the World?

Yes, the Baha'i Faith is a global religion with adherents in virtually every country and territory around the world. Baha'is come from diverse cultural, ethnic, and religious backgrounds, united in their belief in the teachings of Baha'u'llah, the founder of the Baha'i Faith.

To learn more about the Baha'i community in the United Kingdom, please visit the [Baha'is of the United Kingdom website](https://www.bahai.org.uk/).

For a broader view of the Baha'i Faith worldwide, you can explore the [official website of the Baha'i World Community](https://www.bahai.org/).

If you have specific questions about Baha'i communities in other regions or countries, feel free to reach out to us, and we'll be happy to assist you.