A Brief History of the Baha'i Faith

The Baha'i Faith was founded in Persia (Iran) by Mirza Husayn-'Ali (1817-1892), known as Baha'u'llah, the "Glory of God". The word Baha'i derives from Baha ("glory" or "splendor") and means "a follower of Baha'u'llah". The Baha'i Faith is linked to the Babi Faith, founded in 1844 by Mirza 'Ali-Muhammad (1815-1850), known as The Bab, or "Gate". The Bab announced the He was not only the founder of an independent religion, but the herald of a new and far greater prophet, or messenger of God, Who would usher in an age of peace for all humankind. The Bab was executed by Persian authorities in 1850 in an attempt to crush His religion. In 1863 Baha'u'llah declared that He was the one prophesied by the Bab.

Baha'u'llah was exiled from Iran to various places within the Ottoman Empire and in 1868 was sent as a prisoner to the fortress city of 'Akka in Palestine. He passed away in 1892. In His will, He appointed His eldest son, 'Abdu'l Baha (1844-1921) to lead the Baha'i community and to interpret the Baha'i Writings. 'Abdu'l Baha in turn appointed His eldest grandson, Shoghi Effendi (1896-1957), as His successor, the Guardian of the Cause, and the authorized interpreter of the Baha'i teachings. Today the affairs of the worldwide Baha'i community are administered by the Universal House of Justice.

The Baha'i Faith is an independent world religion with adherents in virtually every country. Baha'i's around the world represent nearly all nationalities, classes, trades, and professions. Its membership of over 5 million is comprised of people living in more than 116,000 localities in over 188 countries and 45 territories--166 of which are independent nations-- and unites men and women of various religious and ethnic origins. More than 2,100 ethnic groups and tribes are represented.