Customer Reviews (6)

Great introduction for beginners
This is a great introductory book for beginners or people interested in faith. It covers all the areas of spiritual and social aspects in a brief understandable way. Any one interested in contemporary yet globally encompassing religion will find it an easy read for quick review.

The concept of progressive revelation
The Baha'i Faith is the newest religion on the block and like the others, has its own independant book and founder. The faith emerged out of Persian in the 19th century. Just as Jesus (Christ)was a Jew who founded Christianity, Siddartha (Buddha) a Hindu who founded Buddhism, Mirza Huysan Ali (Baha'u'llah) was a Muslin who found Baha'i. Whether you agree with the concept or not the Baha'i Faith has grown in just under 200 years into a worldwide community of 6 million believers beyond the borders of Persia. However, the faith is not without controvery since Baha'i still faith persecution in Iran.

I do believe that anyone who investigates the Baha'i Faith be very versed in the theology of their original faith whatever it is. Faith is complex and religion complicated. Theology is your spiritual foundation as is what is in your heart. In my life, once a Catholic always a Catholic, but a healthy respect for other religions is a positive thing when one considers the Christian virtues taught by Jesus. If you think the buck stops with Jesus it does not give you license to persecute those who follow other world soul teachers. It is between them and God.

Manufactured religion
I found this book to be a strange blending of all major religions into Bahai, while it deftly eliminates all the points of these religions that clash with each other. It shows that Bahai has a mission, to unite all nations into one world, and it seems that the Bahai faith is the 'tool' for that union.

It is well written, has the poetic language of many Middle-Eastern religious writings, does not attack anyone, and it will be able to attract people who are not really familiar with the doctrines of their own faith. It is -in my opinion-the ultimate in manufactured religion.

Excellent text on the Bahå'i Faith
This book is an excellent book to use in comparative religions courses as an introduction to the Bahå'i Faith. When can we hope to see it back in print?

The best book any human on this earth could ever read..
I have been a Baha'i for fourteen years and this is the absolute best bookI have ever read in my entire life. It explains the Baha'i Faith in a clearand simple way that is interesting and makes you want to turn every page.You'll learn about The Bab, or Gate, who proclaimed the faith and thetortue and suffering he went through...this book is dedicated to those whogave up their life for the faith. Inside this book you'll see so manybeatiful quotes. You'll also learn about Baha'u'llah, God's latest (notlast) messanger. Here's a quote my friend told me that is aboutBaha'u'llah. This quote is by Abdul-Baha, Baha'u'llah's son:

"The blessings of Baha'u'llah are a shoreless sea,and evenlife everlasting is only a dewdrop therefrom.The waves of that seaare continually lapping againstthe hearts of the friends, and fromthose waves therecome intimations of the spirit and ardent pulsingsof the soul, until the heart giveth way, and willing or not, turneth humbly in prayer unto the Lord. Wherefore do allye can todisengage your inner selves, that ye may atevery moment reflect newspeldours from the Sun of Truth."

If you want to learn moreabout this faith and want more quotes, email me at SKhalifaJeff@aol.com ... Read more

Book Description
This comprehensive and succinct encyclopedia traces the origins and development of the BahNB'! Faith from nineteenth-century Iran to the modern day, covering its central figures and major historical events. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (6)

handy reference
This Encyclopedia covers a HUGE variety of topics. History of the faith, central characters, daily life practices, stances on topics from abortion to burial practices.

One of the Best Bahai reference books
This is a must buy book for all Bahai's. When I first bought it I couldn't put it down. The missing link in any library. The information is accurate and concise. It would take you years to compile this information. Don't wait, get one as soon as possible. You will be overjoyed at the vast information included in this book. Should have had this book 30 yrs. ago.

Useful for a Wide Variety of Students of Reiigion
This is an extremely useful and handy reference book for students of comparative religion, the Baha'i Faith, Middle Eastern studies, Islamic studies, etc. The categories are excellent, the research excellent, and the topics are written extremely well. In addition to fine historical biograhies, this brief book covers a diverse array to topics associated with the history, theology, ethical and moral stances related to the Baha'i Faith. Contemporary issues, social and historical issues, theological controveries, all are in this book as well as the nature of Baha'i administration, social organization, scriptural descriptions, relations with other religions, etc. It is an excellent book and useful to academics and students of the Baha'i Faith. Objective and informative, respectful and accurate, and briefly written this book stands as a good beginning for a series of volumes on the Baha'i Faith. I strongly recommend it to everyone.

Encyclopedia-writing at its best
Over the past year, for a project I've read a wide variety of encyclopedias on religious movements, religious issues, and religions in general.Out of more than 20, Smith's encyclopedia is certainly the best.Unlike some volumes of the "Concise Encyclopedia of X" series, Smith has reasonably detailed entries, ranging from a paragraph to several pages.The articles themselves are very clear and well-written, with suggestions for further reading.The articles cover an enormous range of personalities, doctrine, and history of Baha'i.Fascinating.

Valuable reference
I have been impressed by the clarity and eloquence of the short essays under such difficult to describe topics as "the soul."The references to primary works where the reader can find more information are accurate and easy to use, although the Encyclopedia itself does an admirable job of answering most of the questions I've had.It is richly illustrated, with an easy to read type. ... Read more

Book Description
The Universal Principles of the Reform Bahai Faith collects many of the early writings of Baha'u'llah and Abdu'l-Baha, published in the West, seeking to restore and preserve their vision of the oneness of God, humanity, and all religions. In addition to all of the 1912 Universal Principles of the Bahai Movement, the book includes Baha'u'llah's Hidden Words, selections known as the Spirit of the Age, an address by Abdu'l-Baha at the Friends' Meeting House in London in 1913, and many Bahai prayers for community and individual worship and meditation.Though beginning in 2004, the Reform Bahai Faith traces its origin to the early Bahais Ruth White, Mirza Ahmad Sohrab, and Julie Chanler, who sought to preserve the Teachings of Abdu'l-Baha after his passing in 1921. They and other early American Bahais understood the Bahai Faith was being turned into an oppressive organization, under what the British Museum document expert Dr. C. Ainsworth Mitchell judged to be a fraudulent will and testament.Baha'u'llah, the Founder of the Bahai Faith, believed in and taught a moderate, universal religion, grounded in a separation of church and state, not a theocracy, and members of the Reform Bahai Faith seek to recover and renew that saving vision for all humanity. The newcomer to the Bahai Teachings will find here a brief but eloquent and inspiring introduction to the Faith of Baha'u'llah, while people already familiar with it will find a refreshing breeze has returned to revivify and uplift the spirit.This book marks the first publication of the Reform Bahai Press, which will publish several more titles during the next few years. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (2)

The Vintage Wine
One might find validation of this book in the physical volume alone. It satisfies the senses the way books of my grandfather's day did. They were sturdy, dignified, titled with a nineteenth-century font in gold. They were sized to be held comfortably and to travel well in a carriage or train. The pages were creamy and thick, and the printing clear and excellently matched to the page and its content. UNIVERSAL PRINCIPLES qualifies in every sense. It is a book that will survive much passing down.

The content is truly refreshing. Familiar concepts are presented in early translations; nothing is overdone. The authenticity is refreshingly clear. The message of a true "spiritual springtime" leaps off the page, as one would expect of a modern-day revelation from God. This book is proof in itself that the Baha'i Faith was given for all. There are no exceptions for the wealthy or titled; in this book it is clear that Baha'u'llah and His Son 'Abdu'l-Baha were speaking to the world.

Some might argue that Shoghi Effendi, because of his youth, did not do most if any of the translations here, and therefore the translations from the Farsi and Arabic do not have the quality of his later work. I argue that many if not all of the translations were made by men who were there on the spot, companions of Baha'u'llah and 'Abdu'l-Baha, and men of wisdom of years and highly skilled in translation. I believe the livliness of the writings in this book reflects a translation made by a much closer and more highly qualified body of men.

UNIVERSAL PRINCIPLES OF THE BAHA'I FAITH is long overdue. Its reading will give any reader evident proof that the Reform Baha'i movement is historically and spiritually valid. Mainstream Baha'is arguing authenticity and increasingly insistant of approved readings will find nothing to fear. Original translators were, sadly, driven away by administrative infighting after the passing of 'Abdu'l-Baha. It is a joy to have these translations back. Above and beyond the beauty of the words of Baha'u'llah and 'Abdu'l-Baha, the work of these Persian translators is in itself a delight and alone worth the reading. I look forward to future publications from the Reform Baha'i Press.

a new view of the baha'i faith
This is a compilation of writings by Baha'u'llah, founder of the Baha'i Faith, and his son Abdu'l-Baha',the Interpreter of the Faith.The materials include prayers, writings, and talks given by Abdul-Baha', including one to a Friends Meeting in London in 1913.A major theme of these selections is that religion and the Cause of God should bring unity, not division.Critics of religion often seem to blame religion for many of society's ills.They should read this book.The teachings of Baha'u'llah are remarkably contemporary, that religion should and must be an impetus for harmony, cooperation, and justice in the world.These teachings offer a plan for what religion and life ought to be about.They answer religion's critics and offer fresh spiritual insights to the seeker. ... Read more

Book Description
The Bahá'í Faith is a recognized independent world religion attracting increasing attention--and followers--in the U.S. and around the globe as people from all walks of life search for practical spiritual direction and meaning in these deeply troubled times. Founded nearly 160 years ago, the Bahá'í Faith is today among the fastest-growing of world religions. With more than six million followers in 236 countries and territories, it has already become the second-most widespread faith, surpassing every religion but Christianity in its geographic reach.

The history and teachings of the Bahá'í Faith center around the inspiring person of its Founder, Bahá'u'lláh (1817-1892). The character traits He displayed throughout the course of a long and turbulent life, His voluminous and comprehensive body of written works, and impact He has already had in the world undeniably qualify Him as a major figure in world religious history. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (8)

Not quite what I was hoping for
I was hoping this would be a "for dummies" sort of book - a quick reference guide. It's more of a text book with long chapters. The history of the Bahai faith is DEEPLY explained. I wouldn't recommend this book if you're looking for a "basics" reference.

Very interesting
This is a very good introduction to the Baha'i faith.I was not at all familiar with the Baha'i's.I am a student (sort of) of religion and have always wanted to understand what the other faiths and traditions have to say, preferably by reading their main religious text (read as bible), but when you've neever heard of a faith you don't know where to look.So, I saw this on Amazon and it was touted as an intro to the Baha'i faith.It is.It gives you the basics, basically the Baha'i 101 version, of the faith, as well as the names of the major religious texts so you can buy them and read the teachings as written.
Is it preachy as Publishers Weekly states?I agree with one of the other reviewers on this.No it is not.He quotes from "scripture" as necessary to explain his point.This is a good primer to decide whether or not you want to delve deeper and understand more about the Baha'i faith.

Worth a read or two or three
I have read this book a few times, not because it is hard to understand, but because it is so very exciting. If you want to understand how God interacts with humanity, how all religions have the same foundation, and why we who live now are extraordinarily blessed, pick up this book and savor it.

A Wonderful Introduction...
This book is a wonderful introduction to the Baha'i Faith.I enjoyed the detailed history of the faith in the beginning chapters very much.Kenneth Bowers did an amazing job on what I believe is his first book!

Wow
This book was beyond insightfull!!!I couldn't put it down for days.Mr.Bowers truly did an amazing job! ... Read more

Customer Reviews (3)

A Life and Legacy Well Portrayed
Bahíyyih Khánum, the Greatest Holy Leaf, daughter of Bahá'u'lláh, can be considered the woman of highest station in her father's faith, and yet the facts about her life are few. Owing primarily to cultural constraints on her sex, the story and character of her outstanding life must be teased out by the biographer through the scattered references of letters, diaries, and recollections. Armed with a mighty assortment of such citations, researcher Janet Khan weaves a moving tapestry of the Greatest Holy Leaf in Prophet's Daughter: The Life and Legacy of Bahíyyih Khánum, Outstanding Heroine of the Bahá'í Faith.

Through this thoroughly readable book, Janet Khan provides a fresh and accessible approach to Bahá'í history and scholarship. Her insight into and explication of the Greatest Holy Leaf's life highlight the sustaining and even pivotal contributions of this servant to the Bahá'í cause, shaming the many male historians who give nary a mention. Both those new to the Bahá'í Faith and those well acquainted will find inspiration. This is a biography worthy of emulation.

Informative and Loving
This book, truely, covers the life and legacy of Bahiyyih Khanum. A person whose qualities call for close examination. Janet Khan, using all available means for research, in spite of the cultural norms of a women in the mid-19th century Persia, succeeds in portraying the "Greatest Holy Leaf" in a way that makes me fall in love. Her plight and perseverance are something to be admired, especially in context to her historical upbringings. Highly recommended read.

excellent book
This book is a very important book for those studying the history of the Baha'i Faith. The writer opens a vivid window that allows us to view the critical role Bahiyyih Khanum played in the growth of her Father, Baha'u'llah's faith, the Baha'i Faith, in the very turbulent years of its beginning. I enjoyed it immensely. ... Read more

Book Description
In this compact work, Esslemont comprehensively yet succinctlysets forth the teachings of Baha'u'llah, the Prophet and Founder of theBaha'i Faith. He outlines the religion's early history; explains itstheology; incorporates extracts from Baha'i scripture; and providesinformation on Baha'i spiritual practices. This is essential reading forstudents of comparative religion. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (10)

Imperfect but intriguing
This book has a defined scope. It does not address all the questions of a scholarly mind or an inquisitive mind... but that is not within it's scope. The fact that some reviewers find it does not address all the contemporary questions may be related to a misunderstanding of when this material was written. J. E. Esselmont lived from 1874-1925. Keeping the context of history and the author's personal involvement in the faith, it shares a view of the emerging Baha'i faith by one taken up in the swell of the changes of the day. The author's introduction clearly states that when he first glimpsed the teachings, he was struck by their power and beauty.The author thus disclaims his bias and his position.This is not a dispassionate, dry, recitation of the purports of the day. This is the writing of a man in love with something greater than himself, attempting to put his learning into a context historically and socially.

No book will be perfect, but this one is intriguing. A preview of contents is available by project guttenberg online.

UNITY OF THE PLANET
To be a Baha'i simply means to love all the world; to love humanity and try to serve it; to work for universal peace and universal brotherhood." - Abdu'l-Baha

"Be generous in prosperity, and thankful in adversity. Be worthy of the trust of thy neighbor, and look upon him with a bright and friendly face. Be a treasure to the poor, an admonisher to the rich, an answerer to the cry of the needy, a preserver of the sanctity of thy pledge. Be fair in thy judgment, and guarded in thy speech. Be unjust to no man, and show all meekness to all men. Be as a lamp unto them that walk in darkness, a joy to the sorrowful, a sea for the thirsty, a haven for the distressed, an upholder and defender of the victim of oppression. Let integrity and uprightness distinguish all thine acts. Be a home for the stranger, a balm to the suffering, a tower of strength for the fugitive. Be eyes to the blind, and a guiding light unto the feet of the erring. Be an ornament to the countenance of truth, a crown to the brow of fidelity, a pillar of the temple of righteousness, a breath of life to the body of mankind, an ensign of the hosts of justice, a luminary above the horizon of virtue, a dew to the soil of the human heart, an ark on the ocean of knowledge, a sun in the heaven of bounty, a gem on the diadem of wisdom, a shining light in the firmament of thygeneration, a fruit upon the tree of humility." - Baha'u'llah

It was an exciting experience.

A whole new world
This is an incredible book which outlines the basics of a new, world-wide faith known as Baha'i.It discusses such topics as:

- The unity of science and religion

- The way to peace

- Health and healing

- Prayer

- Education

- Fundamental justice

- Baha'i history and religion

It contains a number of profound ideas and meaningful insights which can be applied to any life and every society, and offers a basic understanding of this young religion.For some, it leads to still greater questions -- the answers of which can be found in other, further reaching books and studies.

I highly recommend this book.

A Good Read, even for Non-Bahais
As with many Bahai writings (I'm not a member, but I have been to Bahai functions, read much of their literature, and have close friends in this faith), one doesn't have to be a member to enjoy this book. A lot of what Esslemont says here is practical for anyone. Partricularly such advice as-

"For a child, a teacher is necessary, but the aim of a true teacher is to teach his pupil how to do without a teacher."

"The time has come when narrow national patroitisms should be merged in the wider patriotism whose country is the world."

Want more? Buy the book and see.

It's a New Dawn
I'm not going to get into much detail here, because this a book that you really just need to read for yourself.Verily, every Earthling should read this.Okay, that is a biased thing to say.( I believe in Baha'u'llah's revelation )But to view this as a reader and not a theologian, it is a remarkable introduction to the 2nd most widespread and youngest of the world religions.It is a source of the Baha'i view on a very large number of issues that face the world today.I think its easy to at first be utterly confused by the Baha'i faith, but this book should aid you in a comprehension of Its message and what it means to be one of Its adherents. ... Read more

Book Description
The Baha'i Faith in America sets out to accomplish two main goals. The first is to introduce to the American reading public a religion whose name may be commonly mentioned or heard, yet in terms of its unique history, world-view, beliefs, and laws, is virtually unknown. Such categories provide the essential material for Part I. The second objective, which is the uniting thread of Part II, is to trace the historical development of the American Baha'i community from its earliest beginnings at the end of the nineteenth century up until the present day. The chapters in this section not only peruse the major events and introduce the leading personalities associated with American Baha'i history, they also trace significant themes, motifs, and issues that have characterized the community over the decades. Examples include early Baha'i connections with both American millenialism and metaphysical esotericism, to more recent associations with the Civil Rights Movement and the 1960s youth counterculture. In addition, the book's final chapters take a close look at some of the more controversial issues that have characterized American Baha'i community life over the past few decades. Here issues ranging in content from disagreements over differing styles of propogation to the freedom of expression allowed to Baha'i scholars are examined. In the process, the work reveals a dynamic and highly idealistic faith that is attempting to offer a model of religious community that is compatible with the continuing process of globalization. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (5)

How refreshing
How refreshing to read a book about a religions where the author is neither promoting not attacking.I found the content to be well balanced and evenly presented, and find Collins' review to be absurd.Collins who is probably a Baha'i is defending where there is no attack.As a student of religion I highly recommend this book to anyone wanting a fair and honest approach to the study of the Baha'i Faith.

Readable but disappointing
This work promises to be a neutral academic treatment, but is plagued with some questions about how that neutrality is achieved. While Dr. Garlington gives a good overview of the Baha'i Faith's progressive teachings and a useful history of American polemic against it, he gives disproportionate weight to the viewpoints of a handful of ex-Baha'i critics and disaffected Baha'is. Thus his later chapters on contemporary developments are deprived of the Baha'i community's and institutions' authentic and nuanced voice in the understanding of their own Faith. The critics, if not the author himself, tend to believe that "fundamentalism" is rampant in the Baha'i community. Thus the author quotes as fact one critic's false connections between right-wing Christianity in America and the membership of international Baha'i institutions. In reality, Baha'i institutions advise Baha'is that they should not seek to impose Baha'i requirements on those who are not Baha'is and a national Baha'i educational institution has held courses about how to ensure a spiritual, thinking, non-fundamentalist culture. When treating the controversies fomented by many of these critics, the author draws frequent unfounded conclusions, for example stating that large scale enrollments of African-Americans in the Baha'i Faith in the south around 1970 came to an end because Baha'i "leadership" was unwilling to cope with large numbers of poor and minority members. If this were true, would that same leadership have built a Baha'i institute and a radio station for those believers and continued to emphasize the importance of consolidating their membership? Though I (the reviewer) am a Baha'i, I am able to see from the outsider's viewpoint and understand how contemporary thinking raises some issues to prominence. However, I was personally involved in or observed most of the contemporary issues mentioned in the book. Garlington's informants did not give a complete picture of their interactions with the community and its institutions. The work frequently gives their viewpoints without a full accounting of the Baha'i understanding of the issue at hand, which might make for a richer picture of how the Baha'i tradition applies to daily life and practice. Unfortunately, the work too often characterizes as major crises, controversies that are largely unnoticed among the general Baha'i populace or that are being worked out within the framework of a developing community life.

Good book. Appraisal too optimistic. A little on the naive.
William Garlington's THE BAHA'I FAITH IN AMERICA is an important addition to the corpus of writings regarding the history of Baha'ism in the Western world, specifically in America. Refreshingly, it details, for possibly the first time (and objectively and at length at that), the Chicago Reading Room Affair of 1916-21 and Ahmad Sohrab's New History Society fiasco. Garlington brings developments up to the present, including the late 1980s with the DIALOGUE MAGAZINE affair as well as into the 1990s with the talisman@indiana.edu explosion, which I was personally involved with. His appraisal and analysis of these affairs is well presented and articulately broached.

Precisely where this book suffers, in my opinion, is beginning with its preface (which is a near sugar-coated hagiography) and the rather subjective appraisal by the author regarding Baha'ism's present and future state in the West. I am a former Baha'i, hailing from a Persian Baha'i family of six generations on one side, who after he formally resigned in 1996 looked deeply into Baha'ism's past - far, far deeper in fact than Garlington possibly could, because such archaeology requires expert proficiency in Arabic and Persian and access to texts and sources. My investigative research finally led me to find the case presented by the Bayanis (derogatively designated by the Baha'is as "Azalis") not only compelling, but thoroughly and categorically confuting of Baha'ism's entire claim to legitimacy tout court. In my personal opinion, and as history will ultimately prove me right, Baha'ism absolutely has no future whether in the West or in the East for that matter. I would even go so far and state that I believe Baha'ism will eventually go the same way as Manichaeanism.

Its scriptural platitudes aside, clearly Baha'ism has no real agenda working in its favor for our times (whether as a serious spiritual discipline or as progressive social movement). In serious spirituality scenes of a non-traditional nature throughout the West these days, the pole of gravitation is either towards various forms of esotericism, syncretism and the like, or universalisms such as the UU and similar. Christian based entheogenic spiritualities based in South America, such as the Brazilian Santo Daime and UDV, have far better chances of attracting potential converts at present than the Baha'is could possibly hope for. Socially, those who might have been potentially attracted to Baha'ism at one time are now finding comfortable homes among Green activists, human rights workers or other such progressive endeavours. The other problem is that among Baha'isms core constituency, the Iranians in diaspora (esp. the USA), many have begun voting with their feet and hence drifting clear away. The socially ultra-rightwing agenda of the current Baha'i high elite in Israel does not look like it is going to change any time soon or even within the next few generations in fact. Given this, not much is really going for Baha'ism and as such I do not see how one could argue then that Baha'ism has a bright future ahead of it, either in potentia or actuality. In Garlington's alliance with the Baha'i Liberals - those like Cole, Scholl, Lee and others - there is a philosophically problematic position that with a structural shake-up of bureaucratic structures erected by Shoghi Effendi (especially in the elimination of "review") a panacea for all the ills currently beseting Baha'ism can be found. Far from being the case, unless and until these liberals recognize that the ills beseting Baha'ism today are firmly located historically in the 1860s, and then immediately after the death of Husayn 'Ali Nuri Baha' himself in 1892-1930, any struggle on their part now to even attempt to reform an irreformable Baha'ism will result in precisely the experience of the reform movement activists in Iran under Khatami - abject failure! Besides, as the truism goes, bad systems are vulnerable to destruction precisely at the moment when they attempt to reform themselves. Totalitarianisms must be discarded, not reformed. Baha'ism is a form of religious totalitarianism, not just in its current manifestation, but also as expounded in it's author's sciptures. A kindler, gentler Baha'i system is well nigh an oxymoron, and what is to say that if these same liberals were to be at the helm of power they would do any better than the fundamentalists currently in control? Experience proves they wouldn't, and quite possibly would even be worse. Demonstrably, Baha'ism is a bad system. Its spirituality is second (nay, third-) rate compared to that of its parent religion, i.e. the Bayani gnostic faith (Babism), not to mention the High Sufism of Ibn 'Arabi which both are heir to. It's internal and institutional workings and dynamics are more akin to 1930s Soviet style Stalinism than anything remotely palatable to a Western, let alone an American, audience. Given all this, one cannot prognosticate anything for Baha'ism but eventual (and in my opinion, inevitable) doom. As a side note, I find it quite ironic that Juan Cole and Abbas Amanat - two of the foremost names in the Liberal Baha'i cause - where recently attacked in no uncertain terms within a online Persian weekly of the secular Left, Baz-Tab, and characterized as close-minded and self-interested (moghriz) representatives of Baha'ism. It seems the exposes I have been making on USENET over the past few years are fast becoming part and parcel of popular Iranian consciousness in so far as Baha'ism is concerned. Even Abdolkarim Soroush himself - that intellectual doyen of Iranian reform in the early '90s - recently made the comparison in a talk in Tehran of the VF system (wilayat'ul-faqih, absolute guardianship of the jurisprudent) with the Baha'i system. Also it would seem that the current generation of younger Iranians (especially in Iran) are not buying what Baha'ism is offering, either, even in its Liberal re-packaging. If this is so, then a doomed Baha'ism in the land of its birth is ten-folddoomed among any constituency in the West. I hope these liberals one and all see this one day and wake up to smell the coffee and thereby jump off this run away train they insist on clinging to with dear life.

Having said that, this book is an extremely important contribution to the field and should not be underestimated for what it does present between its two covers. The author should be highly commended for his valuable work, and he definitely receives my highest accolades for what he has accomplished in the book. Bravo, Bill!

Wahid Azal
Ecclesia Gnostica Bayani Universalis
Eastern Coast, Australia

Excellent survey of the American Baha'is
William Garlington provides the best overview of the American Baha'i community to date. Unlike insider books such as William Hatcher and Douglas Martin's THE BAHA'IS, Garlington, a former believer, balances his uses of sources and gives us a fair look inside the American Baha'i community. Most outsiders are unaware of internal debates and controversies that have been an important part of the American Baha'i scene over the last 30 years. The general image of the Baha'is by others is that of a peaceful, liberal religious group that sees sparks of truth in all faith traditions. Garlington describes this liberal foundation of the Baha'i teachings but also shows how conservative views have come to dominate the administration of the Baha'i community. Controversial topics such as issues of gender (the role of women who are barred from being elected to highest office in the Baha'i world and views on homosexuality), noninvolvement in politics, excommunication of dissidents, suppression of scholarship, and inflation of membership figures are raised. Garlington allows all sides to be heard and leaves judgment to the reader. Although a serious academic work utilizing the latest scholarly research, Garlington is also to be praised for writing a lively and very readable book.

Rare Objective View
If you are looking for an objective view of the Baha'i Faith, this is the book ro read. The author was a former Baha'i, so he has knowledge of which he speaks, but he does not hold back when it comes to critical analysis. A must read for those who are interested in America's New Religious Movements. ... Read more

Book Description
A clear, readable, and informative introduction to all aspects of this 150-year-old tradition. From personal spirituality to social and theological teachings. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (3)

a great introduction
This is an excellent introductory book on the Baha'i faith.It is concise and well organized.It presents the Baha'i faith in context and looks at it from the individual, the family, the society, and global perspective. In addition, it covers the history, the laws and the principles of the Faith accurately and in a language that is easy and accessible.The tables and graphs, assist in highlighting the key facts and concepts. Overall it a great short introduction to a wealth of knowledge!

Our Modern Remedy
The Baha'i Faith A Short Introduction is a helpful guide to begin understanding the religion of God, but not the best introductory book out there.The focus is on the teachings, with only a bit about the history.Not only that, but certain teachings are emphasized and others are given less attention or comprehension.For example, I thought Momen did a good job on the nature of God as described by all the previous Divine Revelations, but should have gone into more depth on uniting the other concepts of the world religions, and how to understand them as a Baha'i.But overall he still did pretty all right. I would in now way shape or form discourage you to read this book, unless you were to only read one book on the Faith, and that you should read others.Even I myself have not read many, but from what I have seen Esslemont's work is written very well, enough to be the one I recommend.But I reckon Moojan Momen still atleast gets one thumbs up!!! ;>)

The Baha'i Faith: A Short Introduction
This book is exactly that, a short introduction. It's great for those whowant to find out more about the Baha'i faith but do not know where to lookfirst. For those taking religion or comparative religion classes this is amust-read. Once I began reading, I couldn't put it down, and now I can'tseem to get it back from my friends! ... Read more

Customer Reviews (3)

The need to lsiten
At the beginning of Hinduism and the Baha'i Faith Dr. Momen announces that Baha'is do not believe that the Baha'i Faith has come to supplant Hinduism. Rather one of its aims is to take the tradition on to a further stage of its development. (xi) To the extent that his book has opened up an arena for both current and future dialogue between the Hindu and Baha'i traditions, it must be measured a success. Moreover, its attempts to find a common ground of religious truths shared by the traditions can only help in this enterprise.Where differences are noted and critiqued, it can only be hoped that such analyses will produce among its readers (of whatever religious or secular affiliation) what Huston Smith has termed the wisdom of listening. Without listening, the world is left with a myriad of loud assertions, and even louder counter assertions, to which the fundamentalisms of our time -- including certain strains of militant Hindutva and of theocratic Bahaism -- readily attest. In Smith's own words: "Those who listen work for peace, a peace built not on ecclesiastical hegemonies but on understanding and mutual concern"

People from all religions will profit from this book
All religions have as their foundation stone the Golden Rule which in Christianity is expressed as "Do unto others as you would have others do unto you". In Hinduism the Golden Rule is expressed as: "This is the sum of duty: do naught to others that which if done to thee would cause pain" while the Bahai Faith expresses it as: "Blessed is he who preferreth his brother before himself." If we are to prevent religious rivalry progressing to religious war it is important that we learn about other religions and try to identify and emphasize our common heritage rather than highlight our differences. While "Hinduism and the Bahai Faith" has been written as an introduction to the Bahai Faith to those of the Hindu tradition, it is helpful for those of other religions who wish to gain an insight into both religions and who may, perhaps, seek to identify areas of similarity with their own religion.

Hinduism is not merely a religion, it is a collection of religious traditions that have evolved to represent a wide variety of views about most matters while the pivotal points of the Bahai Faith are the belief in a progressive, recurring divine revelation and the unity of all religions. The Qur'an tells us that God sent messengers to all peoples and that He made known His will and His truth through Noah, Abraham, Moses, Krishna, Buddha, Zoroaster, Christ, and Muhammed. All religions have their origin in God and are different reflections of the same truth. As every age requires a fresh measure of the light of God, every divine revelation has been sent in a manner befitting the circumstances of the age in which it appeared. The Lord Krishna talks about progressive revelation in these words: "Whenever there is a decline in righteousness, O Bharat, and the rise of irreligion, it is then that I send forth My righteousness. I manifest myself from age to age."

Momen explains the philosophy, the law and morals, and the right way of living, in both the Hindu and Bahai Faiths to show that there is no conflict between the two, and provides a table showing the similarities of the two faiths. An Indian once said to 'Abdu'l-Baha, the son of Baha'u'llah the founder of the Bahai Faith: "My aim in life is to transmit as far as in me lies the message of Krishna to the world." 'Abdu'l-Baha replied: "The message of Krishna is the message of love. All God's prophets have brought the message of love." We need to be constantly reminded that love is the only way that we will find a solution to our problems. Whatever the reader's religious background, he or she will profit from learning about the religious truths that unite us.

Two religions compared ý with sympathetic insight
At first glance it would seem hard to find two religious systems with less in common than Hinduism and the Baha'i Faith. Both are established "world religions" but that seems to be about all.

Hinduism is very old, has a huge following, and is concentrated in one part of the world, indeed is intimately associated with it ("Hindu" and "India" have the same root). Its rich tapestry includes elements of popular polytheism. Baha'i is only just over a century and a half old, with a much smaller following spread throughout the world, is very definitively of the "Abrahamic" tradition of Judaism, Christianity and Islam, and is sternly monotheistic.

And yet it is a basic Baha'i teaching that the world's religions have a common source, share a basic spiritual truth, and have more in common than what divides them. How, then to reconcile these two faiths?

Momen, a noted scholar of the Baha'i teachings, makes a brave attempt in this short book. It is aimed at the general reader and so lacks the weight that academics are looking for, but within that framework the result is interesting and challenging. And it is always good to read a book about different religionswhich is not going down the "I am right, you are wrong" route but rather says "Let's look and see whether we might both be right". ... Read more

Customer Reviews (1)

excellent explanation
This book provides an excellent explanation of the development and roots of Chinese religion and how it is not compartmentalized into strict categories as religions are in Western culture. It also compares Chinese religion with the teachings of the Baha'i Faith, one of youngest world religions, and finds a number of basic parallels. ... Read more

Book Description
What does religion mean to you? How do you develop a greater sense of purpose in life? How can you cultivate your own spiritual growth? And how do you know if you're heading down the right path? For many people religion is the answer. But what is true religion, and how do you know when you've found it?

Nathan Rutstein provides a personal. thoughtful exploration of these and other questions. At a time when many are struggling with life's most difficult questions, SEEKING FAITH offers a hopeful perspective for the future. It explores how to find your own true purpose and create peace and happiness in your life as well as in the world around you, no matter who you are and no matter what circumstances affect you. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (4)

An unobtrusive view of religion
An unobtrusive, delightful book about the real meaning of living a more meaningful life.The author is a Baha'i and he places emphasis on the importance of humanity learning to live together in a harmonious way, free from prejudices of race, colour, nationality and religion.

We need to keep abreast of changing times and changing conditions and not be afraid to face new challenges.The author touches on our spiritual reality and the soul's journey, and a world in which we can all live together in harmony.What goal is better than this?

It is a book able to satisfy the soul's longing for the meaning of life.It demonstrates very simply the importance of recognizing the fact that God may have sent another divine messenger or spiritual guide to lead mankind out of the mess it presently finds itself in.

It is not full of detail and doctrine which is refreshing.I found it helpful and encouraging.What's more it gives hope. I would recommend it to all seeking meaning and purpose in life.An easy to read book too.

Good, contribtory, but read SB 1 or God
I have to say this is a sincere effort to unify persons for peace sake and that should say enough. First, to cover the title of is religion really what you think it is, the author touches nothing new, but stimulates the biased mind in a hope to enlighten the reason for faith. I cannot say I agree with everything here, but it certanly is an effort to help many understand the pro's of faith. Second, the book takes a very realistic approach, well written, but is a bit lacking in character. I strongly recommend a book titled SB 1 or God which is much more convincing, by Karl Maddox.

A REMARKABLE WORK
Nathan Rutstein gives the reader the spiritual tools to discover the true beauty and unity of religion.This is timely work of eternal verities and practical, life-changing wisdom.Highly recommended.

Finding Yourself in the Cosmos
I loved this book for its simple examples of why, as beings created by a loving God, we have the chance to live a life otherwise unimaginable when we open ourselves to the process of seeking faith.

This book also presents compelling information on the Baha'i Faith, a religion that defines what many people are coming to decide for themselves: that all religions are connected.

This book also gives wonderful examples of how gaining spiritual maturity will allow you claim the life you were destined to have, to fully realize your gifts and talents and to be a force for positive change. ... Read more

Book Description
Millennial fervor gripped many people around the world during the first half of the nineteenth century.While Christians expected the return of Christ, a wave of expectation swept through Islam that the "Lord of the Age" would appear.Both Christians and Muslims believed that a new spiritual age was about to begin.

In Persia, this messianic expectation reached a dramatic climax on May 23, 1844, when a twenty-five-year-old merchant from Shiraz--the Báb--announced that He was the bearer of a long-promised Divine Revelation destined to transform the spiritual life of the human race. Against a backdrop of wide-scale moral decay in Persian society, the Báb's declaration aroused hope and excitement among all classes.He quickly attracted thousands of followers.Why He did so, and why the events of over 150 years ago—including the Báb's execution and the massacre of some 20,000 of His followers—have relevance today, is one of the great and dramatic untold stories of our time. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (3)

An important book to read
At barely thirty, he seemed so young to die. He appeared helpless and gentle, yet confident; a look of contentment on his face as he gazed calmly into the hostile barrels of 750 cocked rifles in the public square in Tabriz, Persia on July 9, 1850. In 1844 there had been great excitement over the return of the Messiah, the promised Christ and on May 23, "The Bab proclaimed that He was the One foretold in all the holy Books of the past. He said that he had come to usher in a new era, a fresh springtime in the hearts of men. His name, the Bab, meant the door or gate. His teaching, he said, was to open the door or the gate to a new age of unity in which men would recognize one God and worship in one religion - the same religion which all of God's prophets had taught from the beginning of time. It would be an age in which all men would live as brothers."

18 people accepted the Bab's teachings. One of these was Tahirih, the Pure, who saw Him in a vision, became a staunch believer, a courageous teacher and finally a martyr. Another, Mullah Sadiq, was so advanced in age that he knew he could not survive the thousand lashes administered for embracing the Faith but although he found the first seven strokes severely painful, he was filled with joy. Suffering, pain and persecution are only unbearable to those who have no purpose in life and no hope for the future. For the love of God pain becomes a pleasure and suffering a means of being closer to God. The Bab traveled to Mecca, but none would listen to his message because they were indifferent, antagonistic or afraid. The governor sent a mounted guard to bring the Bab in chains to Shiraz, believing this would dampen people's enthusiasm for the cause. Meeting the Bab en route, the commander was surprised when the Bab said, "Deliver me into the hands of your master". The commander ordered his escort to permit the Bab to ride ahead as though they were a guard of honor and the people of Shiraz marveled that the escort commanded to bring the Bab in chains, had returned treating him as royalty.

The Bab's gentle manners, refined courtesy and politeness made the governor furious, especially when the Bab reminded him that his duty was to determine the truth about affairs in his region and not make unjust decisions without first investigating personally. Abdul Karim, a man with such a thirst for knowledge that he was elevated to the station of teacher while still a student, was just one of many great figures who visited the Bab and stories of conversions infuriated the governor who was unable to stop the Bab's rising popularity. Meanwhile the disciples spread throughout the country proclaiming the regenerating power of the newborn Revelation. As the authorities became alarmed at the enthusiasm with which the people accepted His message, church and state unleashed a wave of hate and the sands of Persia were stained red. The governor arranged public debates at which the Bab spoke with simplicity, gentleness, charm and extraordinary eloquence. In addition he exposed vices and corruption and pointed out the infidelity of the leaders to their own beliefs; he defeated all with their own Holy Book in His hand. Even orthodox Muhammadans agreed that his eloquence was of an incomparable kind such that no one could imagine without being an eyewitness.

The King and Prime Minister sent Vahid, the most learned, eloquent and influential of all the king's people, with instructions: "Go at once to Shiraz. Interview the Bab. Find out if these tales of wonder we hear are true. Then report to us personally and in all detail what you discover." At the end of the first interview Vahid reported: "Quietly the Bab began to speak. He gave brief but persuasive answers to each of my questions. The conciseness and clarity of his replies excited my admiration and wonder. My feeling of personal superiority vanished. I was embarrassed by my own presumptuousness and pride. I felt so abased that I hurriedly asked permission to retire. I told him: 'If it please God, I shall in my next interview submit the rest of my questions and conclude my inquiry.'" At the second interview Vahid was impressed by the Bab's ability to answer questions not yet asked and at the final interview Vahid decided to ask for a commentary on a very difficult piece of Holy Scripture. Noting that Vahid was powerless to speak, the Bab asked: "Were I to reveal to you the commentary on the Surih of Kawther, would you acknowledge that My words are born of the Spirit of God? Would you recognize that My utterance can in no wise be associated with sorcery or magic?" and with bewildering rapidity and in words of matchless beauty and profound meaning he wrote 2000 verses of commentary. Vahid wrote a full report to the king but did not return to the capital, preferring to travel to all parts of Persia summoning the people with great fervor to accept the new Messenger of God.

Such were the first few months at the beginning of the true six-year story of the establishment of the Bahai Faith that is recognized by the United Nations as an official religion. For anyone who would like to learn more why there are now more than five million Bahais and a presence in every country in the world, there is no better place to start than by reading this book.

My Favorite Book
This book was wonderful!I could not put it down, and was amazed with all the trials and tribulations that the Babi's went through.This truly is an inspirational book and I reccomend it to everyone, regardless of age or religion.It is a great book and I hope you enjoy it as much as I did.

Release the Sun
I am re-reading this book and find it even more fascinating than I did the first time.It delves into the history of the beginnings of the Bahai faith from a very human point of view. It is easy to get caught up in thestories of the persons and their personalities that were aware of thecoming of a new age and what it would entail for their people.It tellsthe stories of the men chosen to bring a new faith to mankind; and alsotells the stories of the disciples, both men and women, and faithful in theearly days of the faith. I find myself rivited to page after page of thebook and reading late into the night and agian early in the morning. If thehistory of the beginnings of the Bahai faith, the 1800's and religionsinterests you at all this is a must read book. Enjoy it, please ... Read more

Book Description
We first started writing our story for those who have not yet arrived on the scene, unborn generations who are destined to make their appearance in our family and in the family of man.Our aim was to narrow the gap for those who were too little or not even in this world, to have known or appreciated Grandpa Chuck.Then we thought about a wider audience - our close friends and beyond.Grandpa's legacy to us all is about faith, love, courage and fortitude in accepting the vicissitudes of life and mysteries of death.Perhaps our readers, especially children and youth who are experiencing the sudden or gradual loss of someone they cherish dearly, will discover between these pages a gentle ray of hope.What could be brighter or more comforting than to imagine our loved ones that have passed from us, immersed in an ocean of light? ... Read more

Book Description
EARTHCIRCLES: BAHA´I PERSPECTIVES ON GLOBAL ISSUES edited by Michael Fitzgerald

For over one hundred years, the Bahá'í community has anticipated the inevitable contraction of our planet into a global neighborhood and warned of the urgent need to provide spiritual foundations for this new world order. Bahá'ís believe that the unity of the human race is the fundamental moral principle that today must direct and govern world affairs.

In EARTH CIRCLES, Bahá'í writers and intellectuals again take the opportunity to look at the social issues of our time in global perspective. Each from a different point of view brings an understanding of Bahá'í teachings to bear on such problems as: homelessness, racism, disability, poverty, conflict resolution, and globalization.

This book is the fifth in a series that seeks to promote the discussion of social issues from spiritual perspectives.

Retail price: $16.95 paperback ... Read more

Book Description
Peter Smith traces the development of the Baha'i faith from its roots in the Babi movement of mid-nineteenth century Iran, through the lives and work of its prophet-founder, Baha'u'llah (1817-92), and his successors, to its contemporary emergence as a worldwide religion.Explores the textual sources for Baha'i belief and practice, theology and anthropology and understanding of other religions.Covers the concept of the spiritual path, the faith's law and administrationand aspects of community life.Examines the Baha'i's social teachings and activities in the wider world ... Read more

Book Description

Islam and the Muslim World will help people understand the fastest growing religion in the United States and the dominant religion in a wide area of the rest of the world. This informative and interesting new encyclopedia explores an increasingly important force in the modern world, looking at Islam's role in the modern world, in the context of the religion's history and development over the last 13 centuries, and contains thematic articles, biographies of key figures, definitions, and more, filling a need in this key area of religious studies and serving as a resource for those eager to become better informed.