Celebrating the Birth of Baha’u’llah: Divine teacher for this age
Shrine of Baha'u'llah
On November 12, Baha’is in every country celebrate the birth of Bahá'u'lláh, the prophet-founder of the Bahá’í Faith. Baha’u’llah is recognized by close to six million followers around the world as the Manifestation of God, or Divine Teacher for this age. He taught that all of the Manifestations of God — which include Moses, Abraham, Christ, Muhammad, Krishna and Buddha — have been sent by a loving Creator at intervals throughout history to help us know and worship Him and bring human civilization to ever-higher levels of achievement.
Baha’u’llah's central message for humanity in this day is one of unity and justice. In two oft-quoted passages He wrote:
"The earth is but one country, and mankind its citizens.” "The best beloved of all things in My sight is justice.”
Born into a noble family in 19th century Persia, Baha’u’llah's destiny would seem to have been one of wealth and ease. Yet from an early age He showed little interest in following in His father's footsteps at the Shah's court, preferring to spend His time and resources in ministering to the poor. Later, His recognition of the religion of His forerunner, the Bab, caused Him to be cast into prison and subsequently exiled.
Throughout His long years of exile, Baha’u’llah revealed divinely inspired passages equivalent to more than 100 volumes. This revelation comprises mystical writings, social and ethical teachings, laws and ordinances, and a fearless proclamation of His message to the kings and rulers of the world, including Napoleon III, Queen Victoria, Pope Pius IX, the Shah of Persia, Kaiser Wilhelm I of Germany and the Emperor Franz Joseph of Austria.
Baha’u’llah passed on in 1892, still nominally a prisoner in Palestine. The day of His birth and Ascension (May 29) are two of nine holy days on which Baha'is suspend work and school.*
Come join us for joyous celebrations of Baha’u’llah’s birth:
Beaverton
Beaverton Baha’i Center
Thursday, November 11 at 6:30 pm
5355 SW Murray Blvd.
Beaverton, OR 97005
503-601-9999
Portland
Portland Baha'i Center
Thursday, November 11 at 7:00 pm
8720 Ivanhoe Street
Portland, OR 97203
503-289-6331
Washington County
Leedy Grange
Friday, November 12 at 7:00 pm
835 NW Saltzman Rd.
Portland, OR 97229
503-531-8786
The children, junior youth and youth will present a program of prayers, sacred writings, stories and music. Join us for a great program and refreshments.
A note about the Bahá’í calendar: the Baha’i day starts at sunset, so often when there is an evening celebration, it occurs on the evening before the Holy Day.
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*Reprinted in part, with permission from the Baha'is of the United States(see U.S. Baha'i News)