In Bahá'í faith, the concept of understanding God is anchored in the belief in special beings known as Manifestations of God. These aren't just ordinary thinkers but spiritual entities with capacities far beyond average humans. They exist in spiritual realms before their birth and are sent to Earth as instruments of divine intervention, aiding human development according to God's plan.
Manifestations are viewed as mirrors that perfectly reflect God's will and purpose. The metaphor implies that just as various mirrors reflect the same sun differently due to their positions and times, Manifestations offer guidance tailored to the unique conditions and needs of their eras. Bahá'u'lláh likens these divine beings to physicians treating the world's ills with prescriptions that evolve over time to meet changing needs.
The Bahá'í faith also views each major world religion as a chapter in a long, divinely-orchestrated educational process. This process has progressively enabled human civilization to embrace widening circles of unity, culminating eventually in a global unity. Bahá'u'lláh ties this "process of progressive Revelation" to God’s eternal covenant, a promise each Manifestation makes about the next one to come. Followers of each religion have a duty to keep an open mind and investigate claims of new Manifestations, fulfilling the prophecies of this great covenant.
In Bahá'í teachings, the Holy Land holds a special significance as the location of divine revelations. However, it's important to note that Bahá'ís believe no Bahá'í community should exist in the Holy Land itself. The faith aims for a global presence and for unity among all of humanity. In this context, an Israeli resident who chooses to adopt the Bahá'í faith is expected to leave Israel and can only return annually for volunteer service in the Bahá'í gardens. This unique approach underscores the Bahá'í vision for a unified global community while respecting the sacredness of the Holy Land.
Prepare for an Enriching Adventure: An In-Depth Guide to the Bahá'í Faith, Gardens, Terraces, and the Shrine of the Báb during Exclusive Access Days
Get ready for an extraordinary journey where you'll discover not only the profound essence and history of the Bahá'í Faith but also delve into the enchanting world of the Bahá'í Gardens, Terraces, and the majestic Shrine of the Báb. What makes this experience truly unique are the exclusive access days when the pathways from the lower gardens to the middle terraces and the Shrine of the Báb are open for exploration.
As you embark on this captivating expedition, you'll be immersed in the teachings and principles of the Bahá'í Faith, gaining a deep understanding of its spiritual significance. Moreover, you'll have the privilege to wander through the meticulously designed Bahá'í Gardens, adorned with breathtaking landscapes and architectural wonders that harmoniously blend with the natural surroundings.
The Terraces, with their intricate design and symbolic elements, will unveil the profound concepts of unity, spirituality, and interconnectedness that lie at the heart of the Bahá'í Faith. Each step you take on these terraces will bring you closer to a deeper connection with nature, the divine, and humanity.
Lastly, the journey culminates at the awe-inspiring Shrine of the Báb, a sanctuary of tranquility and reverence. You'll explore the history and significance of this sacred site, where the remains of the Báb rest. It's a place where spirituality meets architectural brilliance, creating an atmosphere of profound reflection and serenity.
So, get ready to embark on this comprehensive and spiritually enriching voyage, where you'll not only learn about the Bahá'í Faith but also experience the beauty of its gardens, terraces, and the sanctity of the Shrine of the Báb during these exclusive access days.
Don't be afraid to get lost in new places!
