Here is a list of the central
figures of the Faith (in chronological order) followed by
a list of the Institutions and an explanation of the governance
of the Faith.
The
Bab (The Gate), Prophet-Founder of the Babi Faith,
and the Herald of the Baha'i Faith
Baha'u'llah
(The Glory of God), Prophet-Founder of the Baha'i Faith,
prophesied by The Bab
'Abdu'l
Baha (Servant of Glory), The Center of the Covenant
of Baha'u'llah, and its Exemplar
Shoghi
Effendi, The Guardian of the Faith, appointed
by 'Abdu'l Baha in His Will and Testament
The Baha'i Faith is unique in the history
of the world. It is the first time that the words of the
Prophet-Founder have been given in His own hand, or under
His supervision by an amenuensis ( a kind of personal secretary).
Further, the Faith has been protected from schism by the
Prophet Himself by the means of His Covenant and Testament
which appointed His successor until such time as the Institutions
prescribed by the Writings could be established. For the
first time in history, there is no clergy! This is extraordinary!
In this day and age, most people can read and therefore
investigate and deepen on their own in the Holy Writings.
Therefore, there is no need for a clergy to tell the people
what to believe. That day is over. From this day forward,
each person is individually responsible for what they believe,
and cannot depend on any other person, but must determine
the truth for themselves.
