Birth of Bahá’u’lláh

Post submitted by Ella, one of our Student Experience Ambassadors

Mirza Husayn-Ali, known to the world as Bahá’u’lláh, an Iranian religious leader, was born on 12th November 1817. Bahá’u’lláh, which means “Glory of God” in Arabic, is the Prophet-Founder of the Bahá’i Faith. His birth is one of nine holy days in the Bahá’i calendar that is celebrated by Baha’is and during which work is suspended.

The Bahá’i Faith is a religion that teaches the essential worth of all religion and the unity of all people. The majority of Bahá’i teachings is concerned with social ethics. They believe in the oneness of humanity and devote themselves to the abolition of racial, class and religious teaching. The faith began with the mission entrusted by God to two Divine Messengers – the Báb and Bahá’u’lláh – who were manifestations of God. It is estimated that the religion has 5 to 8 million followers.

The date of this day of celebration varies from year to year based on lunar calculations or the solar calendar. The day of celebration begins at sunset of the first day and ends at sundown on the second day. Bahá’is usually honour the holy day by beginning with prayers and devotional readings and then they join community gatherings, sharing further prayers and listening to music.