Ascension of Bahau'llah – May 29, 2024

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The Ascension of Bahá’u’lláh is observed all around the world on May 29 every year. Bahá’u’lláh was the prophet and founder of the Bahá Faith, a universal religion emphasizing humanity’s spiritual unity. On this day in 1892, the prophet passed away, leaving behind all of his writings and teachings, which Baha’ís commemorate and reflect on.

History of Ascension of Bahau'llah

Bahá’u’lláh was the prophet and founder of the Bahá’í Faith, a universal religion that focuses on humanity’s spiritual unity. He was born into a noble family in Iran and was exiled for his belief in the messianic Báb. In 1863, he claimed to have had a revelation from God in Iraq, and he spent the rest of his life imprisoned in the Ottoman Empire. His teachings, which ranged from moral and spiritual advancement to global governance, were founded on the concepts of unity and religious renewal.

According to teachings, religion is revealed in an orderly and progressive manner by a single God through Manifestations of God, who are the founders of major world religions throughout history. The most recent of them, prior to Báb and Bahá’u’lláh, are Buddha, Jesus, and Muhammad. Despite differences in social practices and interpretations, Bahás regards the major religions as fundamentally unified in purpose. The Bahá Faith emphasizes universal unity and outright condemns racism, misogyny, and nationalism. At the heart of Bahá’s teachings is the goal of a unified world system that promotes the prosperity of all nations, races, creeds, and classes.

The Prophet-Founder died on May 29, 1892,. This holy day is known as ‘The Ascension of Baha’u’llah,’ and Baha’ís all around the world observe it. On this holy day, Baha’ís pay their respects by praying and reading from the Baháʼí Writings. It’s also one of nine days a year when work should be put on hold. The Baha’u’llah Shrine is the point of adoration to which Baha’ís turn when reciting their obligatory prayer. The shrine is ‌in Bahji, which is outside Akka, in present-day Israel.

Ascension of Bahau'llah timeline

1817

The Prophet is Born

Bahá’u’lláh is born in Tehran, Iraq.

1852

Imprisonment

The prophet is imprisoned and taken to a subterranean dungeon for months.

1853

Banishment

Bahá’u’lláh and his family are banished from Iraq and settle in Baghdad.

1863

The First Revelation

The prophet tells people of his communications with God.

Ascension of Bahau'llah FAQs

What do the Bahaí call God?

The Bahá scriptures frequently refer to God as ‘Almighty’ or ‘All-Powerful,’ among other titles and traits. The greatest of all God’s names, according to Baháʼís, is ‘All-Glorious,’ or ‘Bahá’ in Arabic.

Do Baháʼís celebrate Christmas?

No, they do not. Although the birth of Christ is celebrated, it is done differently than in other cultures.

How do Baháʼís pray?

Praying daily is mandatory for all of those above the age of 15. There are different prayers for morning, afternoon, and evening.

How to Observe Ascension of Bahau'llah

Observe a prayer
If you’re looking to celebrate the Ascension of Bahá’u’lláh, the best way is to pray. You can search for online or even local gatherings to join other people in prayer.
Meditate on the teachings
The best way to honor someone is to reflect on what they’ve left behind. Take some time out of your day to meditate and think about the teachings of the Bahá’í Faith.
Visit the shrine
Praying and meditating at home are already great ways to celebrate. But you can take it a step further by visiting the Shrine of Bahá’u’lláh in Acre, Israel. You can even get your family, partner, or friends to join you!

5 Interesting Facts About The Bahá’í Faith

Their calendar is different
The Bahá’í follow a different calendar, with a year lasting 19 months and a month lasting only 19 days.
Different new year
The Bahá' celebrate New Year's on a different date; their new year begins in March, at the Spring Equinox.
Important symbols
The number nine represents the Baháʼís, and their most important symbol is the nine-pointed star.
No rituals
These ceremonial observances are discouraged by the Baháʼís, except for the mandatory prayers.
Becoming better
The Baháʼís hold many beliefs, the most important of which is that we should always strive to be better people, transforming both ourselves and those around us.

Why Ascension of Bahau'llah is Important

It honors an important figure
It's important to remember the people who helped lay the groundwork for what's available today in traditional settings. Bahá'u'lláh was the one who established the Bahá'i Faith.
It’s a day of reflection and introspection
As much as we enjoy going out or gathering with friends and family to celebrate, it’s also great to spend some time reflecting and meditating on our lives. This is an excellent day for introspection!
It’s all about faith
Faith is one of humanity's biggest characteristics. To believe in something is powerful and can help us thrive and survive the many adversities of life.