The Founding of the Orthodox Bahá'í Faith in 1960

Name: The Founding of the Orthodox Bahá'í Faith in 1960
Start: 1960-04-21
Location: Unspecified

The Birth of the Orthodox Bahá'í Faith

On January 28, 1960, the Orthodox Bahá'í Faith was formally established in Washington, D.C., marking a pivotal moment for the Bahá'í community worldwide. Rooted in the teachings of Bahá'u'lláh, the founder of the Bahá'í Faith, this new denomination sought to preserve and uphold the fundamental principles of the religion while emphasizing the importance of authority and tradition.

Key Figures in the Orthodox Bahá'í Movement

The founding of the Orthodox Bahá'í Faith was led by prominent figures such as William A. J. Kheiralla, who played an instrumental role in shaping the early structure of the community. Kheiralla's vision was to ensure that the teachings of Bahá'u'lláh would remain unaltered and that the community would remain steadfast in its principles, standing apart from other interpretations within the Bahá'í Faith.

The Significance of Washington, D.C.

Choosing Washington, D.C. as the founding location was no coincidence. The city, being a hub for national and international dialogue, provided a unique environment where the principles of the Orthodox Bahá'í Faith could be disseminated and discussed. It also allowed for the establishment of a centralized location for followers to convene and collaborate.

Core Beliefs of the Orthodox Bahá'í Faith

The Orthodox Bahá'í Faith espouses several core beliefs that align closely with the original teachings of Bahá'u'lláh. These include the oneness of humanity, the importance of justice, and the need for universal education. They also advocate for the adherence to the covenant set forth by Bahá'u'lláh, viewing this as essential to maintaining the integrity of the Faith.

Covenant and Authority in the Orthodox Bahá'í Faith

Central to the Orthodox Bahá'í Faith is the concept of the Covenant which refers to the relationship between God, Bahá'u'lláh, and his followers. Upholding this Covenant is seen as crucial for the unity and continuity of the Bahá'í teachings. The Orthodox Bahá'ís emphasize that adherence to legitimate authority is fundamental to preventing schism and maintaining the Faith’s integrity.

Community Life Among Orthodox Bahá'ís

Community life among the Orthodox Bahá'ís is characterized by active participation in worship, education, and social action. Members come together regularly to deepen their understanding of the Faith, host discussions, and engage in humanitarian efforts aimed at fostering peace and unity in society.

Fun Fact

The Unique Distinction of Orthodox Bahá'í Faith

While the Bahá'í Faith is known for its emphasis on unity and inclusivity, the Orthodox Bahá'í Faith sets itself apart by maintaining a strict adherence to the original teachings of Bahá'u'lláh, ensuring that the Faith remains aligned with its foundational roots.