$JES 911 Essence of World Religions Reference Book

Author(s): Pravin K Shah
Publisher: JAINA Education Committee

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Essence of World Religions
revelation from God. Some of the major texts include:
Kitab-i-Aqdas (The Most Holy Book): which describes the details of a new World Order Kitab-i-Iqan (The Book of Certitude): which describes the doctrinal writings The Hidden Words: which describes the ethical teachings
The Seven Valleys: poetic and mystical writings The writings of Abdul Bahä and Shoghi Effendi (who translated most of the Baha'i scripture into English) also have special significance. In addition, Baha'is acknowledge the sacredness of and make use of the scriptures of the world's other religions.
Sects There are no formal sects within Bahä'i. Adherents The Baha'i world community includes almost all nationalities, classes, trades and professions. There are over 5 million Baha'is living in many countries around the world.
Goals The central principles of the Baha'i Faith are the oneness of God, the oneness of Religion, and the oneness of Mankind. Baha'is believe that humanity is one family created by God. The purpose of human life is to know and to worship God and to carry forward an ever advancing civilization. The Bahä'is strive to bring about the unity of mankind, world peace, and world order. Path of Attainment The fostering of good character and the development of spiritual qualities such as honesty, trustworthiness, compassion, and justice is the primary path of the faith. Prayer, meditation, and work done in the spirit of service to humanity are important Baha'i disciplines. Baha'is are obligated to practice chastity and monogamy; marriage requires consent of both parties and their parents. Use of alcohol and drugs is prohibited except when prescribed by
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