Winter Holiday Series: The Birth of Bahá’u’lláh, November 12

By Alison Lesley --
12 Nov 2013 --

Shrine of Bahá’u’lláh in Bahá’í Gardens, Acre

The prophet Mírzá Ḥusayn-`Alí Núrí was born in Tehran on November 12, 1817. This holiday is very important to the Bahá’í faith. He was a member of one of the most prestigious families in Persia (now Iran) that act as patricians. Though he was endowed with a rich estate he turned his back on the offerings he was born into in favor of spreading kindness and generosity to others. This led to a great love for him by his many countrymen.

Caught up in violent surroundings, he eventually lost his endowments and was put in danger of spending time as a tortured prisoner. He was banished to Baghdad and this is where he announced himself as the “promised one,” giving himself the new name of Bahá’u’lláh. He was then forced to go to Constantinople, Adrianople and Acre. Located in the Holy Land, he arrived in Acre in 1868 in the role of a prisoner.

Lotus Temple, a Bahá’í House of Worship in New Delhi, India.

During his times in both Acre and Adrianople he wrote many letters that were addressed to his current rulers. These letters are considered to be some of religious history’s most remarkable documents. This led to the proclamation of a world civilization and humanity’s unification. As a result, nineteenth century emperors, kings and presidents were asked to reconcile and put their differences aside. They were also instructed to curtail any amendments made and devote themselves to establishing peace universally.

Bahá’ís in London gathered last year to celebrate the Birth of Bahá’u’lláh in an artists studio outfitted for the night in exhibitions explaining the prophet’s life.

On November 12th of every year the Birth of Bahá’u’lláh is celebrated by taking a day off work to reflect on Bahá’u’lláh’s significance by praying and gathering for musical and artistic performances. His birth is celebrated by members of this faith in order to pay tribute to him and keep alive the memory of this peacemaker and spiritual leader.