|
 The origins of the Baha'i faith dates back to the 19th century.Babism Baha'i is an outgrowth of a religious movement known as Babism. Babism stemmed from the Twelve Shi'a sect of Islam, which holds that the twelfth of a series of great Imams vanished from sight but is still alive and will return to institute an era of justice and peace. Baha'ullah Baha'i was founded in Iran in the mid-nineteenth century by Mirza Husayn Ali (1817-1892). Better known as Baha'ullah, he believed that he was the prophet foretold by the Bab, a religious leader who was a direct descendent of the prophet Muhammad. Baha'ullah was persecuted and banished several times during his life, and he died as a prisoner in Palestine. After his death, one of his two sons set out on missionary journeys to Egypt, Europe and America, establishing branches of the community. Among his many writings, Baha'ullah's Kitab al-Aqdas ("The Most Holy Book"), which contains detailed instructions for Baha'i life, is perhaps the closest to scriptures for Baha'is. However, there is no formal public ritual or priesthood. Local congregations hold informal devotional sessions.
| 
