The Muslim Network for Baha’i Rights
July 1st, 2007We are happy to announce our latest project, a website where Muslim activists fight for Baha’i rights. We explained why we decided to launch this project in the first post, where we stated -
Many of you are probably wondering why a Muslim network in defense of Baha’i rights exist. The answer is very simple – the best way to promote tolerance, human rights, religious freedom and respect is to rally for a cause that doesn’t necessarily affect you. When you strongly believe in a value, you should apply it to all people equally regardless of their faith, cultural differences, political stance or nationality. If within your country this doesn’t happen, as a loyal citizen you should actively enforce that such rights be met for the sake of a better and more productive society.
In this network, there are a few things that one should keep in mind:
- The authors are Muslim interfaith activists who are deeply concerned with the treatment of Baha’is within the Middle East.
- We don’t believe in the Baha’i faith. But there are minorities within our societies who are practicing Baha’is and for that, their rights are very rarely recognized, simply because of their religious differences.
- We created this site to demand that the rights of Baha’i minorities is recognized by not only people, but by law.
- We respectfully demand that all governments within the Arab and Muslim world allow Baha’i citizens to have equal opportunities in all fields and to practice their faith freely without facing any threats or discrimination whatsoever.
- We would like to make the general public of the region be aware of Baha’i human rights abuses in order to take effective action against it. We can only successfully achieve the goals of this website if we move our citizens towards real action, no matter what our religious differences are. We are all civilians in need of basic rights, and thus we should join forces regardless of our differences and unite in a celebration of our diversity. Join us in this worthy struggle and make our goals a greater possibility in the name of freedom.
It’s almost ready, right now the layout needs one final touch which is the banner. I hope you guys will find this project useful.
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Dear young Muslim brothers and sisters. As a Baha’i living in the United States, I just wanted to say thank you for taking a stance that I’m sure is not a popular one in your part of the world. I look with expectant eyes and the young people of that region who, God willing, will lead it to a new age of peace, prosperity, and global influence worthy of the Islamic faith.
You are in my prayers.
This is a heartwarming and much needed initiative. Your courage in taking this stand is greatly to be welcomed.
Freedom of religion or belief is a universal human right, regardless of whether one is part of a majority or a minority faith or of no faith at all – and regardless of whether one believes in any particular faith or not. Sadly it is neglected and denied in far too many countries, as Asma Jahangir (UN Special Rapporteur on Freedom of Religion or Belief) has pointed out. (It is noteworthy that the person who carries such an important responsibility for the UN is a Muslim woman.)
I am a Baha’i in the UK and have many good Muslim friends. I want to thank you most warmly for this excellent project
[...] Mideast Youth – Thinking AheadArticle: The Muslim Network for Baha’i RightsOriginaly Posted On: 2007-07-01 [...]
You’re awesome, Esra’a.
Folks…
I too wanted to express my gratitude as a Baha’i. Here in the US, esp., since 9/11 things have been tough for Muslims. Not every day, in every place. But I’ve certainly seen things myself and heard things. It is undoubtedly unnerving to my Muslim brothers and sisters not knowing if, when they walk around the corner someone is going to yell at them or spit at them…
I try, as much as I am able, to explain to my fellow Americans the difference between normal Muslims and fantatics. Fortunately (or unfortunately) America has a never-ending example of fantatical Christians! So it is easy to draw on them and say, “Look, you’re Christian. Does David Koresh represent you? Do the people who supported the bombing in Oklahoma City represent YOU and YOUR faith??” Of course they answer “no!”
I have been hoping that a group, such as yours, would rise up and begin to show the world the real beauty of Islam and of the teachings of His Holiness Muhammad. You represent all that is good and wonderful about Islam!
J.M.Harrison
I applaud your courage, audacity, clarity of vision and intellectual honesty. You are indeed the hope for a brighter future, not only in the Middle East, but in the entire planet.
Esra’a,
Why onlly deal with the Baha’i, what about having activities dealing with Christians, Jews, Hindus, Buddhists, athiests and Muslims who interpret Islam differently from the mainstream beliefs?
Thank you, Esra’a, for a universal truth that applies to all people and nations:
“When you strongly believe in a value, you should apply it to all people equally regardless of their faith, cultural differences, political stance or nationality. If within your country this doesn’t happen, as a loyal citizen you should actively enforce that such rights be met for the sake of a better and more productive society.”
Thank you so much for the encouragement guys, but I think who you should really be thanking is people like Bilo who keep us informed about Baha’i rights abuses within the region. His blog is the inspiration behind our network.
Well then, thanks to Bilo for his work. It’s nice to see that it has inspired people to take some action that will be for the betterment of all people as Barney has mentioned. Religious freedom is absolutely essential to the peace and well-being of the planet.
dear Esraa & my dear friend Cynthia
first congratulation for this new blog & ur courage to speake about Egyptian bahai ID problem, it is so good for continuous interfaith dialouge . iam an Egyptian bahai & tomorrow 3 juli we have case infront of the court in lower adminstrative court ( maglis AL DAwla) . last , this is my blog you can take a tour to see my articles & collections
http://basmagm.wordpress.com/
The holy Qur’an testifies that Almighty God is the creator and exponent of justice. It thus behooves those who submit to Him to act with justice toward all. Baha’is in many majority-Muslim lands suffer persecution that stems from ignorance, prejudice, or negative reaction to the Baha’i belief that divine Messengers appeared after Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon Him). How better to demonstrate the truth of Islam than to act with justice, wisdom, and charity toward all, including Baha’is. We who are Baha’is have exerted a great effort to defend Islam at a time when so many in the West reject it because of extremist betrayal of the great spiritual truths of their faith. May the one true God, in Whose service we are enlisted, bless your efforts and sustain you with His might.
Bahai’s are cordially received in non muslim majority countries. The founder of Baha faith promoted human virtues through his preaching. He rejected all mumbo-jumbo worthless islamic rituals.
The Holy Qu’ran teaches mercy and justice. Thank you for defending the Faith of God, Islam, by being true jihadist for justice. The Prophet Muhammad, peace be upon Him, is the Light of Islam and that Light can still illumine the world through virtuous and praise worthy deeds. I too am a Baha’i and belive in the Prophethood of Muhammad, peace be upon Him, and in the divine origins of the Holy Qu’ran. Salaam. Ernesto
I am an Egyptian born British resident of the UK. I am a Baha’i and the founder and chairman of the “Elmbridge Muslti-Faith Forum”, that functions within the Surrey Borough of Elmbridge. I am also a volauntary advisor to Surrey County Counci, Surrey Police and Elmbridge Borough Council on Multi-faith, multi-Ethnic issues.
Our Forum has members from all faiths, and no faith. We respect them all. We exchange views and work together toewards an understanding of our commonalities, and appreciate the need for some minor differences between faiths, brought upon by the differing need s of the people along the ages.
My message is simple: We must be free to pursue any belief or faith we feel comfortable with, provided we are within the law and that we feel part of the whole (of our society, of the Human race etc..)
I hope I am contributing in a small way towards the lofty messahe of your blog. Thank you for giving me the chance
Great initiative. I love the points in the statement!!
Dear Esra’a
I’m a Baha’i from South America, and this is the a awesome initiative… as a Baha’i I believe in the elimination of prejudice of all kind.. this is a step towards that……thank you for creating this oportunity
Hi billo, I agree with you hundred percent. Esra, rasha, leila and others in this forum are the beacon of hope in the middle east.
I firmly assert what they are doing that is religeon. They are inspired by their conscience, the true God.
Here I am reciting one Holy teaching of Holy Qu’ran
“003.085
YUSUFALI: If anyone desires a religion other than Islam (submission to Allah), never will it be accepted of him; and in the Hereafter He will be in the ranks of those who have lost (All spiritual good).
PICKTHAL: And whoso seeketh as religion other than the Surrender (to Allah) it will not be accepted from him, and he will be a loser in the Hereafter.
SHAKIR: And whoever desires a religion other than Islam, it shall not be accepted from him, and in the hereafter he shall be one of the losers”
Recite the verse in your congregation.
dear friends
we need all your support in bahai case tomorrow 3 juli 2007. we have hope . today the christian come back to their relgion win their case infront of the court
http://basmagm.wordpress.com/
greeting
Why are Baha’is and others being forced to renounce their faiths in some Moslem countries? I do not understand! The Qur’an itself commands: “Let there be no compulsion in religion” (Q 2:257). It also states: “What! wilt thou compel men to become believers? No soul can believe but by the permission of God…”(Q 10:99-100). As a result of these counsels, Christians and other minorities were protected for centuries under Muslim rule, at a time when religious freedom was unheard-of in most of Europe.
Robert,
A very good question! Muslims that have not deviated from the true teachings of Islam respect and appreciate all others just as the Holy Qur’an clearly states. It is when people, for a variety of motives, deviate from the essence of their Faith; they begin to oppress others, whether they belong to religious, ethnic, or any such other group of the population.
It is very heart warming to see such initiatives in the ME. I just hope that people understand better what this forum is doing, it’s not trying to prove the Bahai’ faith is true or not (actually the founders of this forum don’t believe in this religion). It’s trying to teach everyone tolerance of other ideas and thoughts. Therefore it saddens me to see people attacking this religion on this forum and being so ignorant as to miss the whole point. For people with anger management problems, I’m sure there are many forums thirsty for some minority blood. Please keep this forum for pure hearted God loving people.
I just wanted to say that I appreciate what you’re doing for members of the Bahai faith. In the world we live in we need people who are going to defend the rights of others,even if you don’t share all their beliefs or way of life.
May God bless you and the work you’re doing.
[...] new site aimed at fighting for Bahai faith rights has been set up by Muslim activists, writes Esraa from [...]
I can’t believe but it happened!! You must be a courageous person. Many peace loving people will admire you. Thank you
Dear Friends, As a Baha’i I applaud your interest and initiative in helping to secure human rights for all within Islamic societies and for using the Baha’is as your working example to achieve that goal. As I trust you realize, the Baha’i Faith focuses on the unity of mankind rather than division because the promotion of unity is the primary mission for the Faith being in the world in the first place. Moreover, since nearly all forms of politics are divisive, the Baha’i Faith takes a principled but non-partisan stance on all social issues, even including the defense of its own members and the rights of its members. Therefore, as you conduct your activities to help the Baha’is, I would ask you in a heartfelt way to utilize only those methods and principles that would be consistent with the teachings of the Baha’i Faith itself and that you not undertake any activities that would not be consistent with Baha’u'llah’s guidance. Christ also alluded to this perspective when He stated, “What shall it profit a man if he shall gain the whole world and lose his own soul.” Speaking only as an individual, it only makes sense to me that the salvation of our community should come about only through those unifying and non-divisive approaches which would obtain the approval of our Founder, Baha’u'llah. Thank you for considring my views.
bilo,
You are absolutely correct. I would like to add that no one should blame the Manifestations of God for the actions taken by the followers due to their misinterpretation of their Holy Books.
God be with the “Muslim Network for Baha’i Rights”.
While reviewing the comment section on this new site I noticed that some were from Baha’is who were quite ecstatic about the site, even offering to help with it, while others attacked it and even [wrongly] accused the site of being deceptively created by Baha’i internet agencies, and describing them as “Zionist cult of Bahaism.â€
It is critical to clearly and emphatically point out here that this new site “The Muslim Network for Baha’i Rights” was created and maintained by an entirely independent group of Muslims who believe in the true essence of Islam and who want to promote acceptance, tolerance and harmony between all people regardless of their religion, race or ethnicity.
Let there be no doubt that this site has NO connection whatsoever, in the original idea of its creation or its maintenance, to any Baha’is or Baha’i Institutions or Agencies. It was however stated in one of the comments that the idea for the site was inspired by material available on another blog.
Even though it is natural to be tempted to offer help when agreeing with the published material, the authors of the site should be left alone in maintaining the site, gathering material and publishing information on it. This would ensure and guarantee its integrity, its credibility and its reliability.
Perhaps you can see that it is very difficult to attemp to bring justice to an issue that involves religion or politics. I am saddened by the latest comments and the language used to express them. The history of Man and his Religion shows us that man in an undeveloped spiritual condition reverts to violence and verbal abuse when confronted with ideas not consistent with his or her beliefs. Yet the Unity of the world society…be it religious, political, cultural and economic will become a realityl. It is written in all Holy Books. It is not a matter of if but of how soon…. and that depend on mature minds who can discourse and consult intelligently in the light of the Divine revelation. There is but ONE God, but we are unconscious of our relationship to Him because we invest our energies in forcing Divine Principle to conform with our limited and flawed understanding. What your web site is offering is a formum for discussion but we are busy poking each other in the eye and calling names. He who takes the the sacred text of any of the major religions or the names of the Prophets to prove the correctness of his or her understanding has already left the path to understanding and justice. It is no wonder so many deny God. The “True Believers’ have destroyed the foundations of Divine Unity and will kill each other to prove themselves correct. Need one say more? Rather let us be humble, submissive before our Creator and become true lovers of His creation and servants of all mankind, even if others hurt us or reject us we must love and repay them with kindness. That is the way of all true religion and nothing less will suffice. Salaam, Peace be upon all of God’s Holy Prophet.
In the words of my beautiful daughter when she was only 5 years old, “can’t we all just get along?”
What is it that prevents us from recognizing our oneness? Nothing but self. The journey to overcome self begins with one step, and, then, one step at a time, one moment of awareness at a time, we can all cross the finish line in this human race together, as victors of our own selves, rather than each other. What a joyous day that will be. Let it begin now.
In the Hidden Words of Baha’u'llah, the Author of the Baha’i Faith, it is written:
“O my friends! Have ye forgotten that true and radiant morn, when in those hallowed and blessed surroundings ye were all gathered in My presence beneath the shade of the tree of life, which is planted in the all-glorious paradise? Awe-struck ye listened as I gave utterance to these three most holy words: O friends! Prefer not your will to Mine, never desire that which I have not desired for yu, and approach Me not with lifeless hearts, defiled with worldly desires and cravings. Would ye but sanctify your souls, ye would at this present hour recall that place and those surroundings, and the truth of My utterance should be made evident unto all of you.”
“The well-being of mankind, its peace and security, are unattainable unless and until its unity is firmly established.”
“We desire but the good of the world and the happiness of the nations; yet they deem Us a stirrer up of strife and sedition worthy of bondage and banishment…. That all nations should become one in faith and all men as brothers; that the bonds of affection and unity between the sons of men should be strengthened; that diversity of religion should cease, and differences of race be annulled — what harm is there in this?… Yet so it shall be; these fruitless strifes, these ruinous wars shall pass away, and the ‘Most Great Peace’ shall come…. Yet do We see your kings and rulers lavishing their treasures more freely on means for the destruction of the human race than on that which would conduce to the happiness of mankind…. These strifes and this bloodshed and discord must cease, and all men be as one kindred and one family…. Let not a man glory in this, that he loves his country; let him rather glory in this, that he loves his kind….”
[...] with the treatment of Baha’is within the Middle East.” The authors host the well-known MIDEAST YOUTH and the ME Faith websites. In this site’s first post, it states the [...]
Hi all, its interesting to learn that there are still many people out there concern about the Baha’i Rights. I guess i am lucky to be born in Malaysia, a multi-cultural country where there’s freedom of religion. My prayers to all who work hard for this cause no matter what religion you are as all religions come from God. Will forward this website to my friends.
Dear friends
bahai case infront of Egyptian court postponed for final Decision to 4 September 2007 . u can read more detaites in yhis site
:http://www.inter-iman.com/
greeting
http://basmagm.wordpress.com/
Thanks a lot for the update.
To believers in the one God:
God is one
Man is one
We are all one and the same in God’s sight
When we can treat each other as brothers
we’ll have world unity.
Brothers of the world — we are one !
First, God must be with each of you, no matter what
and justice must prevail.
Bill Newell
Baha’i
Working with women in Iraq and elsewhere in the Middle East, it has been my great pleasure to work with women of all faiths and of none. I have been deeply impressed by the women working with WAFDI who are working together across all divides to bring about a better world and the courage of the Muslim women in that group. Thank you for your initiative. May the one God bless your eneavours. All good wishes.
I just learned of this blog and from the bottom of my heart wish to thank the creators. You certainly are individuals who are thinking ahead. In the Baha’i Faith we maintain that the unity of the world lies with the youth. As Baha’is we believe that one day there will be a World Peace. Though most likely not in our future, it is people like you who are helping this to begin. The following quote comes from our Baha’i writings.
“O CHILDREN OF MEN!
Know ye not why We created you all from the same dust? That no one should exalt himself over the other. Ponder at all times in your hearts how ye were created. Since we have created you all from one same substance it is incumbent on you to be even as one soul, to walk with the same feet, eat with the same mouth and dwell in the same land, that from your inmost being, by your deeds and actions, the signs of oneness and the essence of detachment may be made manifest.”
“O FRIEND!
In the garden of thy heart plant naught but the rose of love, and from the nightingale of affection and desire loosen not thy hold. Treasure the companionship of the righteous and eschew all fellowship with the ungodly.”
oops, i meant to say that the World Peace would most likely not happen in our “LIFETIME”..not future. It will DEFINETLY happen in our future!:-)
Dear friend,
I really proud of you, this is the first movment from our friends from you =) I wish everybody will find out that God is transcendent and can’t be known directly. God is known through the lives and teachings of his great prophets, every time, in a new place with new names!
All human beings have a soul that lives for ever. All human beings are members of a single race, which should soon be united in a single global community. All human beings are different, but equal; there should be no inequality between races or sexes. All religions have the same spiritual foundation, despite their apparent differences.
Good on you!
Zarin, I applaud the work you are doing . One of the eighteen original disciples in Baha’i history was a woman (Tahirih, a poetess and a philosopher) who was strangled for her beliefs.
All I can say is you are on the right path and wish you all the success in achieving to eradicate this, and all other prejudice and intolerance against Baha’is i and any other groups in area that you are proposing.
Thanks for your vision and depth of understanding.
Thank you so much dear Muslim youth for this amazing web site.
I am a British Bahai and married to a Persian Bahai and we believe that God Allah, Deiu, is One in whatever language you spak and all people are One race the human race. The earth is but One Country and Humankind its citizens. You have more spirituality than many of those supposedly learned Mullahs who have ruined much of the Islamic reputation.
God is the Creator not the distroyer of His creation.
Thank you Thank you Thank you.
Dianne
Hello there. Thank you for this courageous initiative. Very timely. Wherever there is good will a garden will grow. There might be tilling and weeding, and there will be much much beauty and love as a result of good intentions.
wishing you heavenly winds.
pupak from Forest Row, UK.
[...] They state: We created this site to demand that the rights of Baha’i minorities is recognized by not only people, but by law. We respectfully demand that all governments within the Arab and Muslim world allow Baha’i citizens to have equal opportunities in all fields and to practice their faith freely without facing any threats or discrimination whatsoever. [...]
Thank you so much for your insightful and courageous stand!
May people with penetrating minds and kind hearts follow your example!
When we investigate whatever Holy Book we follow, it exercises an influence on mind and heart. Then, we take it as our God-given right and duty, in the name of Justice, to protect the rights of all. When we all learn to follow this principle, there will be no need for individuals and groups to defend themselves, all will be thankful and loving to one another, and all will flourish!
I know that the Creator smiles upon your efforts, and wish you all blessings.
I am writing as a Baha’i living in the UK.
I feel very moved and inspired by your noble actions and wanted to convey my sincerest thanks and greetings.
As you may know, we have religous tensions here in the UK after the recent bomb attacks. I work in interfaith activity with many wonderful Muslims, who I am proud to call dear friends. Over the weekend Londoners from all our religious communties will gather on the anniversary of the 7/7 attacks to pray together and promote religious harmony. I will share news of this website with the friends I speak to this weekend.
God bless you.
Such an exciting intiative and an opening move, surely a victory for the region.
Badi jaberi
I am the Bahai representative on the Kingston interfaith forum and attendeed a memorial last night a for the London bombing 7/7.
There were readings about Peace from various religious leaders including the Rabbi, A Hindu. Christian, and Muslim besides Bahais and other faiths.
It occurs, that each religion is teaching the exact same thing about peace and caring for others, and that spiritually all religion is the same from the same source.
There is no real reason to have wars other than for political gain for land oil and whatever else it is they want to take over. and for what? A piece of this earth which becomes the eventuakl grave of all.
We have had so many wars why not try peace for a change?
Once again thank you for creating this wonderful web site and forum to make friends with all people and to help Bahais and others who live in peril on a daily basis
Dear Halim, you quote Qur’an 003.085 which states that no religion but Islam will be accepted from humanity in the afterlife. Yet, we must consider the fact that Qur’an’s own definition of the term Islam goes BEYOND Muhammad’s religion and applies equally to all MONOTHEISTICS religions. Qur’an makes it clear that Muhammad’s Path, the TRUE (3:17) and PERFECT (5:5) religion of God, is none other than the path of the Hebrew prophets who preceded him (42:11). In fact all the major Hebrew prophets or their followers have been called Muslims throughout Qur’an. This includes Noah (10:73), Abraham (2:126) Moses and his followers (10:84, 10:90, 7:123), and the disciples of Christ (5:111). Where was Muhammad’s religion during Moses’ time? Or at the time of Christ and His disciples? So, in this context, by Islam, Qu’ran means the premordial religion of God that is monotheistic in nature and is brought to huamnity through successive Manifestations. In other words, Islam equates MONOTHEISM. Qur’an 003.085 that you quote is an example of a seemingly “exclusivist” passage that tend to occur in ALL scriptures. For instance, Jesus says “I am the way, and the truth, and the life; no one comes to the Father, but by me. (John 14:6). Should we take the Bible or the Qur’an’s assertion as true here? If we adhere to the literal meanings of such passages, we will only promote intolerance and prejudice. By Qur’an’s own definition, Baha’is would be considered Muslims (monotheists) and thus, have made a safe choice for the afterlife.
A wonderful effort and a potent dialogue.
This is a courageous act, to defend those for the principles of justice and equality.
As has been stated, literally interpretating the Quran, everyone who has not submitted to God is a loser in the next world.
BUT it is for the individual to choose his path, according to his conscience, beliefs and convinction.
For people wanting to convert to Islam, for Muslims wanting to convert to Christianity, for Baha’is wanting to convert to Buddhism, whatever. This is what it comes down to: Individual choice.
Thank you.
YABAHAULLAH,
its so good to see this kind of sites…which it will show ppl in the reigon, who we bahais r and what r we calling for….
me and my family were asked to leave oman for just our faith, and other friends…..its really hard, but to see.. such ppl as esra …its worthed.
I am in Yemen and have many Muslim and Christian friends. I used to attend Christian Bible sessions in Aden city and when they had questions about Islam, I shared to them what I learned from the Bahai Faith on the glorious truth of Islam..and I saw one of the Canadians started reading the holy Qura’n in English…I heared that he became a Muslim after a few weeks and he was on TV and news paper last year. It was his choice.
I became a Bahai from a Christian Background in 1993. The Bahai Faith opened my eyes to the truth of Islam and removed all my prejudices against the Muslims. Thank you for showing sympathy to the Bahai Faith who opened my heart to give my highest respect towards the Islamic Faith.
May you succeed in all your endeavors.
It is wonderous…..The bloodshed against Muslims in Iraq, Afghanistan, India,Lebanon, Palestine etc. etc. But no word of protest or sympathy from Baha’i Community.
Genocide of Muslim in Gujarat, India. But no word from peace loving Baha’is. Thank you my friends. Its a one sided love.
Friends of Zionists. Those who spread hatred. violaters of UN resolutions. Killers of women and children in Palestine & Lebanon. are so happy that they got support from some ignorant Muslims. Actually misunderstood this NGO (Bahai) as a religion so they have come out in support of them.
You know Mr Abdul Khaliq
My heart bleeds each time I hear that an Iraqi or Afghan or India or Palestinian or Israeli or American or British or any person has died in a war of any kind anywhere at all. I am sure that most Bah`ai’s will agree with me about this.
We do care and pray for those innocents very much in all those countries that are living under the threat of death and with wars, but unfortunately there is little we can do to prevent people of war from doing their worst.
Bah`ai’s and Babi’s have been persecuted in their own countries ever since it began, and one of the reasons they are not able to protect themselves is due to the Bahá’à rule of obeying the laws of the country in which they reside.
An other reason is that the Bahá’Ãs are not allowed to belong to any political party of even to discuss politics with each other let alone to a government.
One other thing to point out is that this list was created for Bahá’Ãs very recently and we are all so enthusiastic to find someone else actually cares and from such an unexpected source as the dear Muslim youth that we hardly have been able to believe it.
Please do not think that you are alone in wanting world peace and for all wars to cease so that we can each one live in harmony and unity even with the diversity of all our cultures. This is what being a Bahai is all about and in fact all religions teach to love your brothers as yourself.
Dear Majeed,
Your hateful comment only proves why our network exists.
You don’t represent Islam; you don’t represent Muslims; and you don’t represent tolerance or human rights if you continue preaching such cowardly hatred against a minority which did nothing to harm you, your faith, and your society. You should be ashamed of yourself.
Greetings to you from Poland,
I am a Baha’i living in an area of the world that has experienced tragic consequences of religious prejudice. Thank you so much for creating this wonderful venue meant to educate all of us so ignorance can be overcome by understanding. Peace be upon you.
Dear Majeed, I am Native American and Spanish by race. I was raised in a religion which taught me that everyone that did not belong to my faith was going to hell! I did not believe my clergy. I am intelligent and use my mind to help me be successful in my life. Success to me means looking at the opportunities and possitive experiences in my path and using that information to serve my fellowmen. I am a Baha’i and that is the meaning of my faith, to love all and to be just. What ever has cause you to be bitter and angry is not of God. I studied all the religions of the Book and saw that they were all good. I also see the people of the Book do bad things….but that does not make me hate or want to kill…it makes me want to work harder to bring love and understanding to as many persons as I can. I did not know the Holy Prophet, Muhammad, Peace be upon Him. I learned from BAHA’U'LLAH that the Holy Qur’an is the only authoritative holy book of all the previous Revelations, That Muhammad, peace be upon Him is the Prophet of God and that the Qur’an is the Word of God. In Studying history I learned about the great Islamic culture. So great was the Light of Islam that it overcame the darkness of the Christian culture (the Dark Ages)and restored the life and vitality of the Christian nations of that time. Remember, Spain enjoyed the superior spiritual and intellectual culture due to the Moslem influence. To say that molems die and the Baha’is don’t care is equal to saying the molems are blowing up and killling thousand!….NO, Some misguided souls do bad things but I have known and do know my friends who are moslems and they are as righteous as any one can be. As for your knowledge of Baha’i, be a true believer and do not judge and condemn with out knowing the truth. I left my church because I am responsible for my sout and I will not assume that what the clergy say is true unless I know that to be a fact. Follow the footsteps of the Holy Prophet, Rasul Allah peace be up Him. Rasul Allah loved the ink of the scholars more than the blood of the martyr. Reflect on this that you may understand the greatness of the Islamic Revelation. What we, you and I can do is to do our best, be fair and just to all men at all times even if they do us wrong. Then, I believe we can work for that day when Islam will be the standard of faith….Islam means submission to Allah. Peace and loving greetings.
ALLAH AKBAR, THAT IS ALL I CAN SAY. MAY GOD BLESS YOU FOR YOUR WORK, AND THIS FORUM.
MASOOD
Nice to see that this post is generating lots of responses both positive and negative. I just wanted to make clear that I understand that those involved in this initiative are not trying to support the Baha’i religion but are acting on a universal principle that is inspired by their own faith. One way that those of us who are Baha’is can be supportive of their effort is to make this distinction very clear especially when leaving comments so that we do not unintentionally undermine a heroic effort.
I look forward to following your progress and also checking out the Middle East Youth page as well. May your generation lead the way towards justice, peace and progress in that richly blessed region of the earth. You have my prayers and my heart.
Your brother,
Phillipe
dear friends
in this site u can saw a promo of documentary film about the daily social & spiritual life of Egyptian bahais . A Promo of the film by Al Fanar Media Production .the film titles ” Egyptian & bahais”
greeting
http://basmagm.wordpress.com/
Abdul Khaliq is right in pointing out that only Muslims are targeted by the so-called super powers all over the world. The FEW among Muslims are gone mad. Killing self in a crowded market will never solve the problem. But, love will win over others as the Prophet Mohammad (peace be upon him) has shown the path. But, who dragged these FEW towards violence? The whole truth is the OIL. Imagine if the Arab world had no oil and the WEST did not had the greed to control it!
Every day hundreds of innocent Muslims are killed but no protest. But, if a single Baha’i is jailed in Iran for certain crime a very big hue and cry. EU parliament is passing resolutions, Human Right Orgs are very worried and other gimmicks.
Its a time to think and compare the stats who is the victim and who is perpeteur of crimes. Mere emotional outburst will not solve the problem. I congratulate these Muslims who have come out in the name of helping Bahais. This was the best way to bring the discussion in public and highlight that why the Baha’i feel themselves the only victims in the world after the Jewish episode in Germany.
Recently I visited a site where Baha’is themselves are struggling to suppress their fellow Bahais who differ in the existence of Guardian in their religion. They have even filed a case in the court denying their fellow believers their rights to practice their faith. A visit to this site is self explainatory.
http://trueseeker.typepad.com/true_seeker/court_case.html
Can anybody explain who are Orthodx bahais and Heterodox bahai? And this site supporting which type of bahais?
Joseph,
There is only one Baha’i Faith. A tiny few however, because of hunger for power and ego satisfaction, had broken the Covenant of the Baha’i Faith and tried to self appoint to this or that, and called themselves a variety of names such as the ones you mentioned. None of these have any legitimate status in any religious, governmental or societal organizations; and have tried to antagonize and destroy the Baha’i Faith without any success. All these attempts have led to their own demise and obscurity. The Baha’i Faith, a world religion consisting of approximately 7 million followers in over 200 countries, remains united by the power of its Covenant. The Covenant is based on the written Will and Testament of Baha’u’llah, the founder of the Baha’i Faith, and His appointed successor, Abdu’l-Baha. The Covenant is very clear as to how succession should proceed and on how the Faith must be administered. The Covenant is intended to protect the Baha’i Faith from divisions and sectarianism known to have happened with former religions.
Sadaf,
You must know that Baha’is have never been involved in any such acts of terrorism or violence as those perpetuated by Islamist extremists. They obey their governments. They do not participate in partisan politics. They promote peace and harmony just like true Muslim believers do. They are against all forms of violence, derision or discord. They believe in the elimination of all racial and ethnic inequity and barriers. They believe in the equality of men and women. They believe in universal education. They promote the unity of humankind and the establishment of world peace. However, they have been selectively persecuted in some Middle Eastern countries such as Iran and Egypt without any justification. They have been subjected to harassment by police and imprisonment without cause. In these countries, they have been deprived of all their civil and human rights and many of them were murdered in Iran—hundreds during modern times, and about 20,000 followers of the Bab, the forerunner of Baha’u’llah, were massacred in Iran in the 1800s.
This is only a very concise account of what the Baha’is are about and what they have been subjected to. I suggest that you read from the authentic Baha’i material easily accessible on many sites such as this one in English: http://reference.bahai.org/en/ and this one in Arabic: http://reference.bahai.org/ar/ as well as this site that will provide you with all the information you need to know on the Baha’i Faith: http://www.bahai.org/
After reading all this material, you should then with a pure and detached heart judge for yourself.
Dear Nabil
You say that u people obey the govt. It is not correct, because, in my country egypt you are not obeying the law of the land and challenging the government itself on I card issue. u r violating the egyptian constitution.
othe point u wrote that the other bahai sect is having fewer followers, is absurd. If we maintain this criteria then u r fewer in numbers in comparision to muslims, means u automatically are prove urself to be hunger for power.
ur persecution theory has no base. yearly thousands of palestanions are persecuted by israel and israel is ur chief patron.
you think that setting up a site in muslim youth name u can change the opinion of muslim ummah, then u r wrong. because the truth lies on the field and the net cannot hide that truth.
mr nabil try some other trick from your torn bag. world community has realised the games of the imperialists.
the iraq, afghanistan & palestine r occupied. please explain these occupations to the muslims.
i would suggest to go and find out the facts from ur fellow bahais on the below site.
http://www.freebahais.com/
No religion loves other. Everyone is trying to sell their product. Everyone is trying to convert others in their religious fold. India has become a fertile land for conversion. Everyone want their share of cake. Everyone poses itself as a victim. The best selling product is religion.
will bahais start a site as;
http://www.the-bahai-network-for-muslim-rights
Dear Badawi,
Thank you for your input. In response to your statements, I would like to indicate the following:
Baha’is obey the law. In Egypt, they are demanding their civil and human rights owed to them according to the Egyptian constitution. This is not disobedience, it is simply asking for one’s own rights. What Baha’is want is quite simple: to be left alone to worship and practice their religion and to live peacefully in their homelands without being deprived of their jobs, education, health care, child vaccination, banking, driving a car, traveling, obtaining death certificates, birth certificates and marriage certificates, etc…. Aren’t these essential elements to living in Egypt? Also, you are definitely incorrect in your statement linking Baha’is to Israel. Baha’i sites have been in Palestine long before Israel was established, just like the Holy Islamic site Al-Masghed Al-Aqsa has been in El-Quds (Jerusalem), and the Christian Holy places have been in that precious Holy Land. This, in no way, makes Israel the “chief patron” of Christians or Muslims, does it? The Baha’i Holy family was exiled to Akko prison in Palestine in the late 1800s; they did not go there on their own will or by their own choice. Baha’is, are forbidden to participate in politics and are not the agents of any government or ideology. In fact, Baha’is cannot be elected to any political offices or belong to political parties. Please do not confuse the issues by making uninformed false and inaccurate statements and accusations. I hope that you know otherwise! Thank you again for your participation in this discussion.
Dear Kishore,
The Baha’is have been very active in defending righteous Muslims in the western world where Islam, as you very well know, has been severely criticized for the horrific acts committed in its name. Also, the mission of the Baha’is is to bring everyone together so that the world would become united and religious division and self-interest, you have referred to, would cease.
I am deeply grateful for this initiative.
This website represents the true essence of Isalm: Tolerance and acceptance.
Let us not forget that this website is about Muslim Youth like Usra and her friends more than it is about the Bahá’Ãs and their right to exist in our Arab world. It is about bright, courageous, enlightened young generation of Arabs, who against all odds and in spite of the propaganda of hatred, decided to stand up and show us glimpses of the society that they would like to live in, a society that is tolerant and accepting of others. They are the ones who started this site, and had no problem announcing to the world that they as young Muslim Arabs are capable of existing in this small “Global Villageâ€, our world. And when they did this, the world took notice, and they were able to demonstratein action, the ability of Islam and Muslims to coexist and become partners in building a peaceful future.
Their support of the right of the Bahá’Ãs to exist in Arab societies, a gesture of kindness, is much appreciated by Bahá’Ãs from all around the world as was demonstrated by the comments received. Their stand through their site is a sign of a different kind that speaks of an Arab world, which through generations and centuries, was capable of accepting tribes and nations of different races, beliefs, and origins like no other land have witnessed. They represent the children of my neighbors that I, as a Bahá’Ã, grew up, played, loved, cried, and laughed with. Even though I do not know them personally, they are familiar to me. They are the ones I speak of when the world around me stands ready to dismiss all Muslims, and all Arabs based on the well publicized shameful actions of few. I hope that one day, the children of Usra and her friends and my children’s children live in a world that allows them to be who they are without being subjected to accusation, hatred, and questioning of their motives and belief as we saw from some of the posted comments.
I have seen the following post regarding the real issues and facts concerning the matter of ID cards for the Baha’is of Egypt. As one who believes in the message of tolerance and acceptance brought by Sayednaa Muhammad (PBUH), I support their rights to be treated equally as Egyptian citizens.
Clarification: My gratitude, recognition, and respect to all the authors of the sites including the authors from other than Arab countries.
Nesreen
Here is the link: http://bahai-egypt.blogspot.com/2006/12/egypts-bahai-case-real-issues-and-facts.html
Dear Authors of this Website:
You have provided a wonderful opportunity for a healthy exchange. Many Baha’i respondents, like me, are understandably elated about: a) a forum that is focused on defending Baha’i rights, b) the forum is authored by Muslim youth – which I believe is the first such website, and c) the forum balances the one-sided attacks and misrepresentation of the Baha’i Faith in much of the press in the Middle East, partuclarly in Iran (the center of Shiite Islam), and Egypt (the center of Sunni Islam).
Many comments from those who are not Baha’i appear to fall in one of three categories:
a) Comments from respondents who are pleased with your initiative as they see it bringing the true spirit of Islam of compassion and understanding and of respect of “no compulsion in religion”. b) Comments from respondents who have divided the world and humans into Muslim and anti-Muslim. and c) Comments from respondents who would like to add to the daily attacks against the Baha’is in Middle Eastern countries by promoting conspiracy theories or focus on the theological issues to prove the falsity of the Baha’i Faith. I will address these in reverse order.
This website clearly states that the authors are Muslim youth who do not believe in the Baha’i Faith. Many Baha’is have accepted torture and even execution instead of denying their Faith, so readers have to accept without question the description the authors of the website have provided of themselves. The objective of this website is clear – it is not to convince anyone of the correctness of the Baha’i Faith. Theological arguments for or against the Baha’i Faith are interesting but are not the issue. The issue is to protect the rights of all, including Baha’is, to worship freely without losing their civil rights as citizens in the countries of their birth.
Those who have divided their world into Muslim and anti-Muslim miss a fundamental point. The Holy Writings of all major religions challenge every human being to follow the Golden rule – to do unto others as you wish them do unto you. The fact that there are many ills and many injustices in the world today is acknowledged by Baha’u'llah as He prescribes unity as the road to peace; “The well-being of mankind, its peace and security, are unattainable unless and until its unity is firmly established”. Baha’u'llah calls humanity to recognize the Oneness of the Creator, the Oneness of His Religion, and the Oneness of Humanity. This means the necessity to eliminate all forms of racial, religious, social, ethnic, or other prejudice, which eats into the vitals of humankind. History is our witness; there is no denial of wrongs done by individuals, groups, or governments – and unfortunately often times these wrongs were (and are) perpetrated in the name of noble causes including religion. “The purpose of religion,” Baha’u'llah affirms “…is to establish unity and concord amongst the peoples of the world; make it not the cause of dissension and strife”. It must be noted that Baha’is are forbidden from engaging in any partisan politics and are involved only in the politics of unity – that means to enhance understanding and to eliminate barriers between people. Baha’is obey their own governments but at the same time assert their legitimate rights of existence and citizenship. If their very presence is denied by a particular government how are they to survive let alone worship?
The courageous initiative the authors of this website have undertaken is laudable and historical! It is a move that shows the world the true nature and teachings of of Islam of love, compassion, and understanding. It dispels the erroneous impression that a few have unfortunately created and promoted of this great religion with its compassionate spirit. Baha’is in western countries often find themselves defending Islam for what it truly is. Baha’is support everyone to adhere to their own pure religious and spiritual teachings, not the dogmas that have for so long divided our world into warring religious factions when God, the source of all religions, is ONE. The fundamental truth of all major religions is ONE. In the name of God, the Compassionate, the Most Merciful, let us all treasure our own religions for their substance of pure teachings, not only for the dogmas that developed over time to divide and exclude others. God, the All Merciful, is the only judge of us, of our beliefs, of our deeds, and of our intentions. Baha’is pray continuously to lessen the suffering of all those who are suffering injustices including the Baha’is who in several countries, including Iran and Egypt, are deprived of their civil rights and denied their very existence.
Youth can move the world – and they do!
[...] were unable to make comments on the posts so they resorted to make comments on the parent site “MIDEAST YOUTH” instead, which thus far has 62 comments on the post announcing the initiation of the new site. In [...]
Question: Why didn’t the Baha’is say a WORD after one of their own, Dr. David Kelly, was killed in England? For those who take the UK government’s propoganda as truth, why would Dr. Kelly, a Baha’i scientist with a daughter’s wedding approaching, even THINK about suicide?
Also, who has funded the founding and maintenance of this website?
Noel says: Why didn’t the Baha’is say a Word re: Dr David Kelly…? The answer to any question by anyone about why the Baha’is behave the way they do can more easilybe answered for yourself by yourself. Try the Baha’i Principle of Personal Investigation of Truth. This is not an invitation to be a Baha’i. This principle applies to any question that one desires to answer for her or himself. But in the context of the Baha’i Faith, you may request information from any source for information about the teachings of Baha’u'llah. One can go to the public Library or write or call to any listed Baha’i telephone number or address and request informationi which will be sent free of charge. A good man thirsty to know the truth of the Revelation of His Holiness, Muhammad, peace be upon him ought not to GO to a Christian clergy or missionary. He would receive biased, prejudiced information. I did!
I then went to the best source, the Qur’an and a learned Moslem teacher. If anyone want to know the reality of any matter, let that soul hear this: Allah has given man the eye of investigation by which he may see and recognize the truth. The cause of the blindness of the human heart is nothing less than the unwillingness to submit to Divine Command. Be just, be truthful, pure and do not make yourself a partner with Allah. I am a Baha’i and my jihad is to conquer my self. Judgement is for Allah alone and He will prevail. Ernesto
Noel,
In order to get an answer for the question about funding and founding of the site (again), you will be well served by reading the site’s FAQ link: http://www.bahairights.org/faq/
Regarding Dr. David Kelly, you are incorrect in your statement. Simply read the (credible) media coverage for your answer. You should also feel free to ask the British government.
Please make sure to do your homework and to use proper motives before asking such questions.
MidEast Youth (mideastyouth.com) is doing the funding and the maintenance.
PS: Domain name cost 5 bucks to buy and we use our current server to host it, so no real funding needed except the 5 buck to buy the domain.
I’d like to present to people another example of a respectful multi-faith approach to religion and culture – the url is very long and messy so I made a tinyurl of it – http://tinyurl.com/2cc7xr
Or you can go to wikipedia and look up “A Practical Reference to Religious Diversity for Operational Police and Emergency Services”.
I’d also like to comment about how Baha’is speak out against the oppression and prejudice against Islam.
I participate in many online communities and have repeatedly defended the honor and glory of Islam and have learned some about it’s past achievements and the debt the West and East have towards it – not that I can’t learn more. But the history of great Muslim minds like http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Avicenna need more understanding in the West especially. There has been more than one occasion where on a multi-faith discussion area there was not even an introduction to Islam and I struggled to make one, hoping to do some little honor on their behalf, and in obedience to my own religions wishes (that we defend Muhammad and Islam.)
And I am not alone – I know many Baha’is who do this on a daily basis in various discussions. Indeed defense of Islam and Muhammad is an article of faith of the Baha’is.
At a National and international level I am aware of Baha’i institutions participating in multiple forums where religious oppression is addressed (I’ve seen videos and articles) but more probably needs to be done. As for Muslim institutions doing the same… well this one seems to be the most noteworthy. I have seen a few where Jews and Muslims have tried to bridge the gap even in the Palestine/Israel area but they are few, highly troubled by onlookers, and fraught with long differences and even hatreds.
Regarding the funding and ownership of this web site. The domain registration is private. There is no way to know exactly who is really behind the web site. Why do they hide?
To clarify, I was referring to the web site bahairights.org that is a privately registered domain
Jeffrey, we are not hiding. We are publicly announcing this network for everyone to see, so why jump to such a baseless claim? Do you know what happens when people seek our domain information? They stalk and harass us, hence why we chose to keep such personal information to ourselves. No one should know our addresses and where we live, we are taking enough risks as it is.
We do this for security reasons only. Everything else you need to know, we have shared with you. Our names, our background information, the network behind the funding (mideastyouth.com). But when it comes to where we personally live, sorry, but no one, least of all complete strangers, has the right to know that.
It’s not called hiding.
It’s called common sense. You don’t give your address out to strangers.
By the way, for those so concerned about funding, do you know that it costs about 5 dollars to own a domain these days? Is it so hard to believe that a bunch of students have $5 to spare on such a worthy and important cause?
I am not sure why you are connecting this network to conspiracy theories, you guys must have quite a lot of time on your hands to unnecessarily blow this out of proportion. The story is this:
A few Muslim students thought it would be a great idea to start a network to fight for Baha’i Rights. We started a blog, began writing in it, expressing our concerns for Baha’i minorities within our region. We are proud to be doing this. And no one will stop or discourage us, not even these embarrassing claims and conspiracy theories which are nothing short of laughable.
I would not blame Esra in the least even if she is hiding which she is not as stated. I would not want to give my surname on this list because I have family in Iran who might be hurt if they new who I was.
Thank you Dianne. We come from a region where these gestures can often be treated with violence; and we are still young. There is no reason why we should share our address and risk our lives or our family’s. We also host many websites fighting for our imprisoned friends, and these definitely need to stay anonymous for the sake of our security.
It’s not that we’re cowards, after all we are running these networks. We’d just like to stay free, and alive!
Wow, just wow… you must live in a really really deep hole. Do you know what will happen to Esra’a if she reveal her information? If you want these people dead, then keep it up.
Mideast Youth says they are the sponsors of bahairights.org. Why question this? Esra’s courage is unmatchable in view of the explicit and implicit attacks about the ownership and funding of the website. Let this forum be at the level of exchanging ideas not of implicit allegations.
One more thing, it cost 5 bucks to buy a domain and 3 bucks per month to host a site. That’s roughly 40 bucks per year. You think university students who are paying fortune to study overseas can’t afford 40 bucks an year? Why do they need “funding” to do this site?
Dishonest people who are used to deceive others think that all others are the same as they are, and they cannot believe the possibility that anyone can truly be honest…Ponder this!
RE: Jeffrey says: Dear Esra’a, The awesome courage to speak out against injustice in the face of powerful opposition is truely to be admired. I speak not about defending the Baha’i situation in Iran or the ME, but of the courage to defend Islam against those who are dismantling it. What disgraces a holy cause is what those who claim to believe do, while loudly proclaiming their loyalty to the Cause. I pray that you and your co-workers for free expression of ideas will be safe. That the government will not through pressure from the extremist, find it convenient to close down your web site. You are wise. I suspect Jeffrey’s reason for accusing you The Muslim network of hiding. The world has become a very small place the the reason for defendiing the right of free expression becomes ever more precious….tyranny is best served by absolute control and free expression is a serious threat to it. The pen is mightier than the sword, said the poet….and Mohammad, peace be upon Him, said it more profoundly..That the ink of the poet was more beloved than the blood of the martyr. How blessed are those words.
We, who grew up and lived in the Middle East, understand the risk that Esra’a and others are taking and the possible impact of their action on them, their parents, their families, and even on their extended families. This is why we really appreciate their effort, and see it as a monumental step, and a reflection of maturity, awareness, and true understanding of what religion should create in us. Hopefully, these sacrifices will set an example for others, and make people realize that the” Youth” have recognized and are sharing God’s love that He placed in each of us for Him and for others. I have no doubt that Esra’a and the other youth, are making a difference. So, thank you again.
~Nesreen
Noel,
Is the Dr. David Kelly you are talking about, an employee of Ministry of Defence, who was exposing the lies about the weapons of mass destruction that were used by Britain and the U.S. as an excuse to invade Iraq?
RandallJones – in answer to your question, yes, that Dr. David Kelley. He was a Baha’i. Ernesto speaks well.
I want to thank all those people who made the effort to make this site. It’s certainly a great step forward towards universal peace and justice that is the right of all the human beings . As a person born in Bahai faith, I suffered a lot prejudice and injustice in particular in our home country Iran after the revolution 1979.
Hope this step will create a new hope for this region of world. So every one can live in peace and complete justice.
It would be commendable if those who claim to represent Islam, as well as the plight of Palestinians and other Arab citizens, to base their arguments in a manner that is knowledgeable, well-informed, and persuasive. There is no one, of any religion, who wants to see the country(s) of their birth be overtaken or negatively influenced by any foreign power. In the same light, it is imperative that one seeks to understand the inherent sources of dissension before embarking on attacks against others; internal and centuries-old problems that have seen little address other than blame on external forces. To engage in unsubstantiated accusations, hearsay opinions on western conspiracies, unjustified attacks against religious minorities, and now, aggressive insult towards Muslims in defense of such, are unwise, incompetent with civilized means of reasoning, are to the detriment of Islam and those who would prefer life under progressive and peaceful leaderships.
How extensive and encompassing is one’s faith; is it devotion to country, to one’s religion, or towards humankind? How many thousands apply for immigration to the United States, Canada, and European states, and how much the number to Arab countries? How many refugees have these same countries hosted and supported and inherited as their own, including Muslims, and how many have the Arab countries done the same? How many an educated Arab professional sought to advance and found opportunity only outside his home country? Of the Middle-East countries that have petroleum resources, how many find their citizens enjoy equitable societal benefit as opposed to the fortunes amassed by their country’s rulers, and rather live in abject poverty with limited access to qualified education, and any form of civil progress and support. Is this also the fault of others? If so, was there such great wealth and civilization to speak of that was taken away by these so-called enemies of Islam? Intelligence and insight is a human quality, and is not conditional on religious affiliation. It is a severe humiliation and disgrace to associate the good name of Islam, and the Middle-East community with such opinions and actions that only speak of ignorance and deprivation. At the least, try to observe the machinations of corruption that plague your own society before attacking others. To suppress and blindfold the common flock while steering them by strong religious inspiration has been the oft-repeated tool for so long. How much longer the fool? Man is one. Be a man.
Hi Esra’a, Jina.
just visiting during exam preparation and grading season here in Japan, I came to read some of the comments. Very nice. I do feel an obligation to present a positive side of Islam when the opportunity arises. Japanese are very nervous and naive about religion, yet there are memorials to religious influence in every village and cluster of farms in every part of the country.
R.A. ,
Muslims make up a significant portion of the world’s war refugees and the Muslim countries are hosts to a large number of refugees.
Iran has a millions of refugees from Afghanistan and Iraq as a result of the Afghan-Russian war and the Iran-Iraq war. In these two wars the United States played a role in instigating and funding the violence.
Syria, Jordan have together have taken in millions of refugees from Iraq, as a result of U.S. invasion of the country. Egypt has taken in 2 million Sudanese as a result of the violence in their country. The SUdanese governmnet is the major perpetrator of the violence in Sudan, but the United States has played a role in fueling the violence in that coutnry as well. See http://www.engdahl.oilgeopolitics.net/Geopolitics___Eurasia/Oil_in_Africa/oil_in_africa.html .
THe UNited States receives hundreds of billion of dollars in investment money from Saudi Arabia, something that people who like to preach to the Muslim and Arab world don’t like to talk about.
THere are immigrants who come to the Middle East, from Asia and Africa looking for jobs and they have been exploited just like immigrants that go to Europe and the United States.
You have a lot of questions about what is going on in the Muslim world, its a shame that the well paid Western journalists are not keeping you informed and instead paint a one-dimensional portrait of MUslims and Arabs. THis is why even though your comment has a very serious tone to it, made me laugh out loud at the ignorance you display.
Ignorance exists amongst all peoples regardless of nationality, but those in the West have less of an excuse for being ignorant because they have more time and acces to computers and libraries to educate themselves about other countries. There are journalists that do a good job of educating the people about what their governmnet is doing and what is going on in other countries, but they do not get as much media attention as those who misinform the public. John Pilger is one of the better reporters who does a good job of educating people. His website is here http://www.johnpilger.com
Randall Jones
Thank you for your clarifications. You mentioned the Afghan-Russian war, Iran-Iraq war, civil war in Sudan, no mention of wars between western/European countries. You also assume that the source of the comment is western journalism. Why? Refugees in the countries you mentioned are not to be compared to those accepted by western/European countries. There is little that is offered them in countries that are themselves, lacking in organization and structure. For the most part, theirs is a simple matter of survival, a temporary and frugal existence. They do not advance. Far East and Asian workers who go to the Middle-East are for the most part, laborers who have little other choice, a step up from what their countries could provide them. If they could, they would much prefer western societies that would grant them citizenship, something that few, if any, Arab countries allow. The exception to these observations would be some of the more advanced Gulf countries, who for the most part, are peaceful and progressive and who hold strong alliances with the civilized world. As to receiving investment money (where is the “hundreds of billions” sourced from?), what is wrong with that if there is no issue between these two countries? Again, the singular blame on the United States, as you are determined to highlight, is not what is being addressed. Even if such statements are true, and there may be probability of some degree of truth, if the focus is purely to take a defensive stance, what efforts are to be directed to those who need the facilities and assistance to advance? A more comprehensive evaluation is needed. Nothing productive comes from pointing blame, even if the blame is justified. Countries, like individuals, must have self-determination, and advance beyond the challenges posed by their so-called aggressors. Why is there no mention of the root causes of the wars that you mentioned, or are we to assume that the leaders were so unintelligent as to not see the play by a foreign power? Why no mention of the invasion of Kuwait by Iraq? This is not said in enmity, but is based on the belief that one cannot resolve a problem without knowing what it is.
Dear friends,
Thank you for this great initiative and in promoting tolerance and unity in the world. We only live here for a short time and what a waste of time it would be to promote division!
I am a Baha’i living in the West, where there is a certainly a lack of understanding about Islam, especially in light of current world events. In speaking with others, I always make every effort to defend the truth and glory of Islam, and of the virtue and spiritual advancement which it teaches, and of the tremendous advancement it has brought to the world in the sciences and arts. My family members were imprisoned and tortured in Iran by order of the clergy – but of course as a Baha’i I understand that the actions of those fanatics perpetrated in the name of Islam, in reality, have nothing to do with Islam and the Teachings of the Holy Qur’an. I would like to assure you that all my Baha’i friends also defend the glory of Islam, as it is part of our belief to do so!
dear Nabil, I got the point, you bahais are the real sponsers of this site in the name of Muslims. Well done, well thought.
RA showed how an exchange of opinions should be. Instead of falling into the trap of engagement into name calling and insults, as the other commentator did, he stuck to the issues at hand. This is a wonderful example of how a discussion and consultation should be carried out: stick to the issues, don’t get personal and be detached even from your own ideas.
Jones,
This is incorrect, again, the site is NOT sponsored by any Baha’is. It was spontaneously created and maintained by Muslim youth from (MIDEAST YOUTH). Thank you!
I have no idea why people keep assuming that this is a conspiracy by Baha’is.
No Baha’is are involved in the creation and maintenance of this project. Please understand this simple concept. The idea was mine, a Muslim, and it’s hosted by our digital project, Mideast Youth, which has very little to do with Baha’is. It’s about celebrating our diversity together within the entire Middle East.
Esra’a
Sincere and heartfelt thanks to you and your associates for your nobility, courage, and productive motives. Be assured that many share, and are further encouraged, by your affirmative and truthful standpoint. It is expected that such a call for unity, perception, and universal vision would be beyond the capacity and imagination of some, however, the mere influence of evoking response, whether positive or negative, is by itself a success. The consequence of exposure to all points of view – and the manner in which they are presented – is an open book for all to read. If there is no disagreement, there is no discourse, and the issues remain hidden and unresolved. For those who are resolute in maintaining polarities between different religions and races, an open book is a threat indeed! If people come to understand the oneness of humanity, what would feed those who are occupied with dissent? Despite the natural influx of anger, frustration and disappointment that are sometimes caused by expressions of hatred and division, it has also been seen that such people, when enlightened, become even stronger and more determined champions for unity and progress.
R.A.,
There are Muslims that are critical of their own countries and there are activists fighting for human rights in Muslim countries, but the mainstream media rarely informs us of this. Instead they paint a one-dimensional portrait of Muslims: the bearded man protesting and burning American flags and the submissive women dressed head to toe in black.
In the United States you will find Americans that criticize U.S. foreign policy but they do not get as much media attention as those who are in denial of U.S. war crimes. We have a lot of freedoms in the United States but that doesn’t mean we should allow our government to commit war crimes around the world and exploit other people’s natural resources. The United States doesn’t just do this in the Middle East, it also does it in Africa, South America, and Asia.
Regarding Saddam Hussein invading Kuwait, he used to be a U.S. ally/puppet ally and got approval from the United States before he did it. United States had helped Saddam Hussein into power and supported him strategically and financially when he was committing his worst atrocities. Now the Iraqis are paying the price of U.S. foreign policy. Millions have died due to bombing during two invasions and sanctions. The bombings also destroyed the infrastructure of Iraq. The use of depleted uranium and chemical weapons has resulted in deformed babies and contaminated farm land.
Saddam had invaded Kuwait because he claimed that Kuwait was slant-drilling that resulted in the theft of Iraqi oil, in addition he has said that Kuwait had been part of Iraq and that the British were wrong to have divided up the Middle East the way it did. Here is some information about the history of U.S. relationship with Iraq and Iran.
http://www.hartford-hwp.com/archives/51/217.html
http://www.law.harvard.edu/students/orgs/hrj/iss17/booknotes-All.shtml
http://www.zmag.org/content/showarticle.cfm?SectionID=15&ItemID=2292
Regarding Saudi investment in the Untied States, take a look at Michael Moore’s website http://www.michaelmoore.com/books-films/f911reader/index.php?id=20 where he gives sources for statements made in his film Fahrenheit 9/11 that the Saudi have $860 billion worth of investments in the United States. He writes
I remember reading on the Washington Times website that the Saudi’s invest between $400 billion to $700 billion in the U.S. and that there have been attempts by organizations and journalists to get the exact amount the Saudis invest, but the U.S. government would not say. Its not easy getting sources off the internet because often media websites will remove old articles or will require that you purchase a subscription to get access to their articles.
If you look at the U.S. government’s website and compare the country profile given of Canada and Saudi Arabia, you will see that the government does not want to reveal this information.
On the Canada country profile webpage ( ) if you scroll down the page you will see a section on Trade and Investment and it says in the tenth paragraph.
If you look at the Saudi Arabia profile webpage ( http://www.state.gov/r/pa/ei/bgn/3584.htm ) there is no section on trade and investment. Under the U.S.-SAUDI ARABIAN RELATIONS section in the second paragraph it says “The U.S. is Saudi Arabia’s largest trading partner, and Saudi Arabia is the largest U.S. export market in the Middle East.†Under the FOREIGN RELATIONS section it says
It’s interesting to note that according to the U.S. government website that America imports more oil from Canada and Mexico. See http://www.eia.doe.gov/pub/oil_gas/petroleum/data_publications/company_level_imports/current/import.html
But Canada and Mexico do not invest as much money in the U.S. as Saudi Arabia does. In addition, Saudi Arabia and the other gulf states buy billions of dollars of weapons from the United States, but they were not even able to defend themselves when Saddam invaded Kuwait. The Gulf States do not even have the qualified personnel to use the expensive sophisticated weaponry that they purchase.
You ask what is wrong with the U.S. accepting hundred of billions of dollars from the Saudis. The U.S. places sanctions against countries that violate human rights. The U.S. preaches human rights and democracy yet accepts funding from a country that oppresses its people. You do not see a problem with that?
I messed up when I was trying to put up the government websites.
Here is the U.S. profile of Canada
http://www.state.gov/r/pa/ei/bgn/2089.htm
Here is the U.S. profile of Saudi Arabia
http://www.state.gov/r/pa/ei/bgn/3584.htm
Here is the website tha shows how much oil the U.S. imports from various countries.
http://www.eia.doe.gov/pub/oil_gas/petroleum/data_publications/company_level_imports/current/import.html
Esra,a,
It seems like you are trying to take up so many causes at one time that you are spreading yourself thin, thereby not being effective in anyone of them. Maybe this website should take up one cause like freedom of Speech and then promote other organizations that are fighting for other causes.
THis is just a suggestion.
Dear RandalJones,
Firstly, you don’t know how we make things possible here. We are a team working together. We help each other out. You wouldn’t know how we work behind the scenes because you don’t contribute to our efforts.
Our work has been very effective in many areas, and have contributed to many causes. We have been featured in many different news agencies as well as been targeted directly by government officials, only proving the worth and extent of our work. We have organized some of the biggest protests for arrested bloggers, around the world.
So what we do here – yes it’s effective, yes it’s influential, and yes we will keep it up. Behind each project we have at least one editor, I’m not the only one handling them all. Please don’t criticize this network if you are obviously ignorant as to how we work. You can criticize and attempt to discourage us all you want, but the fact is, we’ll continue to grow no matter what. We believe in these efforts, we work together to make them possible. What are you doing for change?
I’m ready to work hard and risk whatever for all of the projects listed. My team members can say the same. One day you will realize how wrong your suggestion is, and how important all of these projects are, as they all played a major role within our region.
diversity is “the essence
of perfection and the cause of the appearance
of the bestowals of God
Consider the flowers of a garden: though
differing in kind, colour, form and shape, yet,
inasmuch as they are refreshed by the waters
of one spring, revived by the breath of one
wind, invigorated by the rays of one sun, this
diversity increaseth their charm, and addeth
unto their beauty. Thus when that unifying
force, the penetrating influence of the Word
of God, taketh effect, the difference of
customs, manners, habits, ideas, opinions and
dispositions embellisheth the world of humanity.
This diversity, this difference is like the
naturally created dissimilarity and variety of
the limbs and organs of the human body, for
each one contributeth to the beauty,
efficiency and perfection of the whole….
~ Abdu’l-Baha,
The Compilation of Compilations vol. I,
p. 74
Muslims who are very concerned about the rights of Bahai should see the web site http://www.bahaiawareness.com to see the true nature of the Bahai Faith
Shaykh,
If one is interested in the truth, then he or she must go to the source. The site you are providing is full of the usual misrepresentations and fabrications. People are a lot smarter than you are assuming. Would you ask the same Muslims you are addressing to read about Islam in a site that hates and misrepresents Islam? I think not!
I find it very hypocritical when Muslims launch websites similar to the ones they love to complain about (Jihad Watch, right wing extremist blogs against Muslims, etc). Intentionally misrepresenting a faith is always wrong regardless of our personal opinions. Islam never taught us to do that, so why should we feed the hatred?
Imran Shaykh’s contribution is not new. One only needs to read the distortions, fabrications, and lies about the Baha’i Faith that fill the Iranian and Egyptian press to justify the denial of human and civil rights of Baha’is in these countries.
What is new in the history of religion if you accept Imran Shaykh’s view that the Baha’is are misguided? Many Christians think Muslims are misguided, and many Jews think Christians and Muslims are misguided. Pope Benedict thinks that all Christian denominations other than Catholic are misguided, and Shiite Muslims think Sunni Muslims are misguided and vice versa. A point of view is only that; the truth can only be found by each of us searching for the truth. This search engages both mind and heart. Hate has no place in this search as it is an insurmountable block in the search for truth.
Truthfulness is the hallmark of the teachings of all religions. Distortion is obviously not!
Halim is correct in directing those who search for the truth about the Baha’i Faith to go the original sources and not to learn about it from those who hate and misrepresent the Baha’i Faith, just as those who search for the truth about Islam not to learn about it from those who hate and misrepresent Islam.
It is gratifying to see others condemn Mr. Shaykh’s attempt at an “informative” website. He has attempted to present his view in many venues and universally been condemned. Valid criticisms are one thing but obfuscation and mis-representation should have no place in one’s discovery of the truth for ones self. I would suggest his wedsite is an example of the kind of cultural disconnect represented by certain attitudes in the Moslem world this website is dedicated to addressing as these attitudes have no part in the Message of God through Islam.
Thank you very much for coming to the aid of Bahais in the Middle East. As an Iranian Bahai, I am very touched by your bold voice. My prayers are with you all.
[...] Muslim Network for Baha’i Rights has been very well received, and only weeks after its launching it makes its first media appearance on BBC [...]
To the Mideast Youth: It is time to see you showing the world the true meaning of Islam, something we Bahais always say, Islam is Great, God is Great, but some people are subject to
fault, and imperfections. You Speak the Truth, and the Almighty will bestow on you, Patient and all the Courage you need, Keep up the good work, for the Truth has its own Charm.
I have many great friends who are moslem like your selves, at home and anywhere we go,
never had one of them who approve the inhumane way the Bahais are treated in Iran or Egypt.
They are people to be proud of as my Country People.
Thank you again my Brothers.
It is so great to see the muslim friends speak out for the Bahais’. My prayers for you…………
Thank you
Now is the moment in which to cleanse thyself
with the waters of detachment that have flowed
out from the Supreme Pen, and to ponder, wholly
for the sake of God, those things which, time and
again, have been sent down or manifested, and
then to strive, as much as lieth in thee, to quench,
through the power of wisdom and the force of thy
utterance, the fire of enmity and hatred which
smouldereth in the hearts of the peoples of the
world. The Divine Messengers have been sent
down, and their Books were revealed, for the
purpose of promoting the knowledge of God, and
of furthering unity and fellowship amongst men.
~ Baha’u'llah,
Epistle to the Son of the Wolf,
As a Baha’i teen living in the United States, I have always dreamed of visiting my native land, Iran, and seeing where my family and culture originated in. However, my visit to Iran is impossible with the events occuring in Iran recently. Although you may not believe in the Baha’i Faith, I am so happy and hopeful to see people like you take your time to fight for the rights of Baha’is all around the world. As you know, Baha’is in Iran, Egypt, and other countries are being persecuted and executed for false accusations and crimes or for having beliefs the Islamic Government does not accept or believe in. By continueing with this genocide and wrongful persecution, young children and adults are being deprived from the education, respect, and religious tolerance they deserve to recieve. I wish for people who do not accept my beliefs to just Respect it. I wish and pray for more people to realize this is unfair and the continuation of this horrifying, on-going genocide must stop, as you have realized. Universal Peace will come very soon only with the help and support of those of you who may not be Baha’i, but are still fighting for our rights and lives! God Bless and I hope to see Iran very soon!
Dear Readers
I had been following up the remarks by pros & cons wether this site is sponsered by Muslims of Bahais. But all these gimmicks proves one thing, i.e. Bahais are trying to gain legitimacy by the Muslims. The defence purely points out that this site is sponsered by the Bahais. The comments reveal an insincere approach. They should try to have another approach.
Bahais are pseudo muslims and this fact is available on bahaitruth.com
The Bahai Faith is an independant religion and is certainly not Islamic although we do accept His holiness Mohammad the same as we accept Jesus Christ and all other major religions as being from the One Creator God, Allah, or Deiu depending on the language we speak.
As Jesus was Jewish so The Bab & Baha`u`llah were born into the religion that was came before them. Christ atteded the synagogue and Baha`u`llah attended the Mosques.
Those who folloed Christ became Christians and those who follow Baha`u`llah are Bahai’s. It’s called Progressive reveltions from the One Creator God.
We cannot tie the hand of God and say that He has not the power to bring about a new Manifestation if the world has not followed the teachings correctly of the pres=ceeding faith.
All religion is Good and its the followers who bring about disunity.
The young people who created this list are young Muslims and you should be proud of their work and what they are trying to do that their elders did not.
These are the true Muslims and its the youth who will bring about the will of God on this earth not those who try to hinder them.
God Bless them and be with them and protect them to continue they are the young angels of light in the world
PS
if I really wanted to know about Christianity, would you suggest
I read a web site produced on the subject by
followers of the Jewish faith? Because that’s
basically what bahaitruth.com is, is a site
created by some Muslims who are attempting to
downplay the effect of the Baha’i teachings.
But it wont work because God is our judge not you or them Anju
….just some thoughts,
Anju, I don’t quite understand what you are implying. Is it so surprising and wrong that other people with different beliefs are still supporting the rights of Baha’is? We, as Baha’is, respect the fact you may not believe in our teachings. However, it is not a crime to support and fight for the rights that Baha’is deserve, even if you are a follower of Islam, Christianity, or any other religion! You don’t have to believe in the teachings of the Baha’i Faith, but as a human and citizen of this world, how can someone bare to see another human just like you, suffer and be discriminated for their beliefs. I just thought I would state that so you could realize that the owners of this Website, who are followers of Islam, support the RIGHTS of the Baha’is and are appreciated by all of us around the world.
thank you
It is very interesting to know that the Bahai faith originated from Sheikhism. Bab was the student of Sayed Kazim, and he was the student of Sheikh Ahsai.
They all believed to be the door of Hazrat Mahdi whose birthday falls on the 15th of Shabaan. Yet the Bahais dont celeberate it at all. Is it because they hate muslims or are scared to mention Imam Mahdi.
Not true at all – our religion has clear teachings about who Imam Mahdi is and when His birthday is, as is our affirmation of Allah, His Word, and His Prophets, peace be upon them.
If the Bahais claim to be truthful I implore them to tell the fact. What was the Behaviour of Baha towards his brother?.I have the facts so please do not lie as I will reveal them only after I hear from you`ll.
Mr.Steven, If what you say about Imam Mahdi is true than why do you forsake him. How come he was there and baha also claimed to be Imam Mahdi.Or Which Mahdi do you believe in Mahdi e Jaunpuri or Mahdi e Sudani.
http://ahang.rabbani.googlepages.com/
Take a look at this abiut the Bab http://ahang.rabbani.googlepages.com/
Raj,
Im afraid you and Imran Shiekh are birds of the same feather. You are using deception and frankly lying. I had a debate with Imran Shiekh a few months back that showed indeed his web site was FULL of errors and inaccuracies. Did he admit he was wrong? No. I have the whole thing archived if you want to read it.
Instead of bashing the Baha’i Faith, why don’t you talk about the divinity of Islam. There is a lot of people out their who still have a wrong idea about it. Baha’is dont. We Believe in Muhammad (PBUH). We know the Quran is from God and we consider Islam a religion of peace.
It is the slander you and people like you spew that brings a bad image to Islam. Do you have peace in your heart or hate?
Regarding the relationship of Baha’u'llah and his half brother. Anyone can read about that here.
Baha’u'llah never claimed to be Imam Mehdi.
Imran isn’t respectful at all. In our e-mail exchange, he consistently accused me of being a Baha’i, and that the Muslim Network for Baha’i Rights was a manipulative effort by Baha’is which he referred to as very “typical.” I’m embarrassed to share a religion with such an abusive liar. What he portrays as Islam isn’t Islam at all, like Omid said it’s a religion of peace and it’s out of love for our faith that we fight for the followers of other faiths, especially if they make every effort to stand up for Muslims and Islam. The Muslim network for Baha’i rights is the very least Muslims can do to support a peaceful minority who did nothing but stand up for us.
I kindly asked Mr. Imran why he linked the Baha’i faith with Zionism and have yet to see a response from him. His “supportive letters” also claim that Muslims and Baha’is are enemies, which I don’t understand. Baha’is speak very highly of Muslims and Islam, and are the first to clear up any misconceptions regarding our faith. Mr. Imran’s site suggests nothing but hatred and attempts to create enemies between two peaceful religions, which is very cowardly and shameful.
Dear Raj,
I’m afraid some of your information is confused. The Bab did attend a few of Siyyid Kazim Rashti’s lectures but he was never in Karbila long enough to be considered his student. But it is true that Baha’is think very highly of Shaykh Ahmad Ahsa’i and Siyyid Kazim. The reason Baha’is do not celebrate the 15th of Shabaan is for the same reason we do not take Christian commumion. We don’t take communion because the Apostle Paul said this should only be done until Christ returns. We believe that in the Bab and Baha’u'llah both the Imam Mahdi and Jesus Christ have appeared. (We see the Bab as the Imam Mahdi, not Baha’u'llah.) That may seem strange to you but it in no way indicates any antipathy towards Islam. A few years ago a gave a talk to the World Federation of Methodist Women. Here’s the text of that talk. Decide for yourself whether or not have treated Islam justly:
http://groups.google.com/group/talk.religion.bahai/msg/fdb514f2bbce3d99?dmode=source&hl=en
As for Baha’u'llah’s treatment of his brother I’m not sure what you are referring to. After his half-brother tried to poison him, Baha’u'llah had nothing more to do with him. Does that strike you as strange?
Here’s some other kinds of presentations than arguments to consider both the diversity and tone of…
SHOW FORTH LOVE TO ALL
In every dispensation, there hath been the
commandment of fellowship and love, but it was
a commandment limited to the community of
those in mutual agreement, not to the dissident
foe. In this wondrous age, however, praised be
God, the commandments of God are not delimited,
not restricted to any one group of people, rather
have all the friends been commanded to show
forth fellowship and love, consideration and
generosity and loving-kindness to every community
on earth. Now must the lovers of God arise to
carry out these instructions of His: let them be
kindly fathers to the children of the human race,
and compassionate brothers to the youth, and
self-denying offspring to those bent with years.
The meaning of this is that ye must show forth
tenderness and love to every human being, even to
your enemies, and welcome them all with unalloyed
friendship, good cheer, and loving-kindness.
~ Abdu’l-Baha,
Selections from the Writings
of Abdu’l-Baha, p. 20
Please donot deviate by blaming Imran Sheikh, for he has brought from the Bahai Books such references which youll cannot disapprove.Bab claimed to be the door of Imam Mahdi first and then Imam Mahdi. Baha proclaimed first to be Imam Mahdi than Prophet and than God. Read Dawn Breaker, God Passes by, Qayyoom al Asma etc for your references. and fear the Almighty.
Besides the work of Mahdi is to fill the Earth with equity and Justice. This was done neither by Bab or Baha or any other Pseudo Mahdi. In fact this proves that they are Pseudoes.
Please *do* deviate from still bringing up Mr. Sheikh. I’ve known him for years and participated in several public discussions with him. He has convinced no one I have ever been in a discussion with and sometimes he has been bumped from participating on discussions moderated by non-Baha’is (even moderators unfriendly to Baha’is!)
Raj his references are incorrect. The pages he references do not exist and he has been shown that. Would you like me to provide you the emails I have from him?
You are clearly impassioned by trying to defend Islam. But, you are doing it the wrong way. Please go read those books that you mentioned and then come and talk to me. You might want to get the books from a Baha’i Bookstore–not Imran Sheikh who is seems not to be able to find actual pages in real books.
What we have here is truth mixed with falsehood. It is true that the Bab only gradually revealed His station. The same was true with Jesus if you read the Gospels. He ordered His disciples to keep secret the fact He was the Messiah. Likewise, according to the Qur’an Abraham only gradually revealed His true message, at first making it appear He was an idol worshipper, a star worshipper, a moon worshipper and a sun worshipper. But to my knowledge Baha’u'llah never claimed to be the Imam Mahdi, that was the Bab’s station. As for filling the world with equity and justice, be patient. Baha’u'llah has given us the blueprint but we still need to build it. Remember, the Jews rejected Jesus as the Messiah because they thought He was supposed to be a five-star general too.
Yes, and he has explained the reason for this in his books. He writes that he gradually revealed his claims so that he could gradually prepare people for them.
I expect he anticipated the prejudice, close-mindedness and violence that assailed him and continues to assail the Baha’is Faith down to the present time.
Raj said-
> Baha proclaimed first to
>be Imam Mahdi than Prophet and than God.
Baha’u'llah did not claim to be any of these.
His claim was to be a Manifestation of God.
>Read Dawn Breaker, God Passes by,
>Qayyoom al Asma etc for your references. and fear the Almighty.
Clearly the writer has not read these books otherwise he would not be writing this.
Raj said
>Besides the work of Mahdi is to fill the Earth with equity and Justice.
>This was done neither by Bab or Baha or any other Pseudo Mahdi. In fact
>this proves that they are Pseudoes.
On the contrary, the administrative system established by Baha’u'llah provides for Houses of Justice to be set up in every locality and there are currently over 12,000 of these around the world. So the world has quite literally been filled with justice.
For the present, they are for legal reasons and to avoid misunderstanding called spiritual assemblies but their true name which will be used in the future is House of Justice. They are a place to which everyone – Baha’i or not – can go to seek guidance and justice.
You guys are awesome.
Dear Raj,
Does it bother you that the Bab only gradually revealed His true station. If you read the Gospels you will see that the same thing was true about Jesus. When His disciples came to recognize who He was, at first He told them not to spread it around. Likewise, according to the Qur’an Abraham first represented Himself as a star-worshipper, then a moon-worshipper, then a sun-worshipper. Thus He gradually let people to understand the Oneness of God.
warmest, Susan
What a pity that this wonderful, pure-hearted initiative is being sullied by some people who turn up in various forums with deliberately distorted and misleading information.
This in turn is prompting the Baha’is to ‘fight pollution with dilution’ so that we are in danger of dominating a forum on which we are mere guests.
I hope you can view this beautiful ‘YouTube’ prepared for World Religion Day?
http://youtube.com/watch?v=fpFvuGZteKo
Dear sir,
thank you for your effort in bringing plight of Baha’is to world attention. I am a Baha’i living in UK, and have been in UK since leaving Iran in 1979. I am also a member of UNA (United Nations Association), which is an agency of the UN.
As you are aware the Islamic revolution in Iran made significant changes in Iranian laws, which adversely affected many minority religious groups. The Baha’is were particularly targeted as they formed the largest minority religion after Islam. The subsequent years of Iranian revolution proved fatal to many in Baha’i community, who lost their homes, family and the hundreds who lost their lives at the hand of the clergy. List of victims and crimes perpetrated against this community are available from any of the many human right organisations.
However, as Baha’u'llah taught forbearance and patience, the best solution against such crimes of ignorance, is education.
It is clear to any observer that the ideals, which are most lacking in Iran (and for this matter in most oppressive regimes) are values, which are held in highest regards in the free world. Values such as democracy, freedom/independance of media, freedom of belief and religious practices, equality of men and women, education for all, freedom of thought, promotion of free discussion and consultation.
Organisations such as UN and associated agencies promote such values and are there to provide guidelines for development of such values in any country. In most cases if a country is prepared to develop these values, there are hundreds of studies, which can provide templates for development, and implementation of laws and practices leading to development of the country.
Alas some regimes fail to recognise the benefits of these values and hold onto relics of the past. Such regimes inevitably impose economic and social deprivation on their own people. One who ignores history is doomed to repeat its mistakes. History has proved that inevitably such ideologies fail.
As a Baha’i and member of UNA, I endeavour to promote cooperation, collaboration, oneness and unity of all human kind. So we all recognise that we are members of one human race, with one God, who created us all equal. We are all responsible for the world we live in and we all have a responsibility towards it, towards each other, and towards future generations. In the words of Baha’u’llah, we are all fruits of one tree and drops in one sea.
Thank you for your efforts in promoting understanding and your stance for human rights.
Farhad.
Shopping Cart Free Merchant Account Folding Shopping Cart…
I didn’t agree with you first, but last paragraph makes sense for me…
How can I say thank you? From around and amidst our persecutors arise noble souls who recognize injustice and are willing to put themselves at risk to stand up for the Baha’is. How can I say thank you?
How can I say thank you that brethren who are Moslem give voice to compassion and understanding toward Baha’is in the face of the determination of many who would crush us down? How can I say thank you?
How can I say thank you when disciples of Muhammed (Peace Be Upon Him) inspired by the Koran speak up in the principles of justice that holy book expounds directly in the face of injustice incarnate? How can I say thank you?
How can I say thank you for a candle lit by Moslem hands placed beside a long burning candle of Baha’i to push against the darkness and illumine our age? How can I say thank you?
How can I say thank you that regardless of our independent paths unto God, you rise to stand beside your Baha’i brethren in spirit, God’s most holy spirit, that draws each of us ever closer to God Almighty and to each other. How can I thank you?
I only can submit my petition unto God, for such thanks are beyond me, and only He can convey gratitude so profoundly, so perfectly. Please, God, convey to these noble faithful the thanks I am too impotent to say.
Ll.
Dear Sirs:
As a Citizen of the world, for first time I can see that the Islamic Republic es the contry that should be, the tolerance is a stage that countries must promove not only because there is Human Rights but improve the concept about that contry, Congratulations!!!
Hearing your statement of reason for this action made me want to cry, you are truly beautiful souls. My God bless every step you take.
YA BAHA’U'L ABHA
how to claim Human right
I propose an Idea, to built new World organization UPO like UNO=United Nation Organization, which UPO mean United People Organization, the whole people inthe world not base on the politic interrest such as West or East, how to fight for implementing Human right:
1)Right to have Better life, like in Iraq war after American Invassion the life in Iraq was very bad, the whole people of the world support Iraq people to get the facility condition like previously, enough electrical,water, Oil/energy for their daily life, all infra structure that broken by align troop/American troop should be rebuilt by agressor and agressor cost, because the Iraq people and Saddam Goverment have no wrong, the UN did not find Mass destructive weapons,Not involve to Alqaeda Group which attack US on Sept.11.2001, if Saddam was wrong but not with the Iraqi people, saddam has finalty and Hang by US, he has pay his sin and InsyaAllah he was in Jannah, but now what’s wrong with the people should to face hard and difficulties, what’s the moral of US,Europe, and others countries who support US ianvasion into Iraq, if they left or out from Iraq with all the broken, they always say for Human right but now what’s about Iraq people, they must responsible for reconditioning Iraq countries, return all their asset that has been stolen as in the name of war. how many artefak or others Iraq culture moseum has loose, US should responsible if untill the last Bush government with out statement to resposible to Iraq UPO will declare that Bush was a war crime with all criminal along his presidential periode.
I invite all the organization to declare an UPO, an organization possible to be pressure group in peace to claim the Human right for war victims, Government Corruption, Racialist, and colonialism like Israel to Palestine people, Saddam, Arafat, Gammal Abdul Nasser,Anwar Saddat who has done everything until his end of life to fight how the people has human wright.
I am waiting the man with his great personality to built and declare UPO as new organization for the people to have the life normal, the government or the people who responsible to spoilt their life with out any compensation and recondition is Criminal, should declare to UNO formally and UNO shoult accepted this due pressureized by UPO with all real fact of what was happen.
I hope and I am sure the whole people with the bad life as a vistims of ambision of wrong accuse should protect and to be fight until all the bad condition is rebuilt as compensation, this Idea to avoid any power is used to do a crazy Idea into unsin people by super power.
Salamulaikum
y.achmad
thing