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The Elements of Baha'I Faith (The "Elements of..." Series)

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This slim volume divides into two equal parts. The first half covers some of the author's life experience and makes extensive reference to the recent founder of the Baha'i faith. I think it is fair to say that this section is more impressionistic than informative. However, the second half (from the chapter `God and the purpose of human life') gets down to business, and delivers a systematic account of the teaching and practice of the faith. Some interesting line drawings, muddy in texture, show the mosque-like form of their temples.

Much use is made of borrowed terms, such as the Christian term `progressive revelation' - but here the usage is turned about face. It is made to mean that all ways lead to God, and therefore all religious teachers are equally messengers from God. This results in `Krishna, Moses, Zoroaster, Buddha, Christ, Mohammed', and so on, all being cast in the same mould and tradition. But as their religious differences clearly outweigh their similarities (except in the respective moral codes perhaps), this requires at least some explanation, which is not forthcoming. There are also many adopted parallels to parts of the Islamic faith, such as the annual fast, equivalent to Ramadan.

The practical resolution of all this is found in the Baha'i message of `consultation and universal participation', and `service to mankind'. Many laudable humanistic, social progress statements are made. The aim is to appeal to all mankind in some way, to the widest possible audience of faith and non-faith, to work for earthly progress, peace and prosperity. The overall message is one of an "over-faith", aimed at syncretism and ecumenicism.

I am a 18 year old Baha'i...have been for my whole life...this book gave me more information and in detail about my religion.