Bahāriyyih Khānum (1880-1932), known as the Greatest Holy Leaf, was a central figure in the Baháʼí Faith and a pivotal force in its spread and consolidation. Her life, radiant with service, sacrifice, and spiritual enlightenment, left an indelible mark on the history of the Baháʼí community and beyond.
Born on July 1, 1880, in Tehran, Persia, Bahāriyyih was the daughter of Baháʼu'lláh, the founder of the Baháʼí Faith, and his first wife, Ásíyih Khānum. As the eldest of Baháʼu'lláh's children, she grew up in a profoundly spiritual and intellectually stimulating environment.
Bahāriyyih received an exceptional education from her father, who recognized her keen intellect and spiritual aptitude. She immersed herself in the study of the Baháʼí Writings, mastering the Persian and Arabic languages and excelling in calligraphy.
Her spiritual development blossomed under the guidance of Baháʼu'lláh and, later, her brother, `Abdu'l-Bahá. She exhibited an unwavering faith and a deep understanding of the Baháʼí teachings, becoming known for her wisdom and eloquence.
Bahāriyyih dedicated her life to the service of the Baháʼí community. She tirelessly promoted the Baháʼí Faith, traveling extensively and delivering lectures and talks that captivated audiences with their depth and sincerity.
Her accomplishments include:
Bahāriyyih's life was not without its challenges. She faced persecution and imprisonment due to her unwavering adherence to the Baháʼí Faith. In 1868, she was banished to Acre, Palestine, along with her family and fellow Baháʼís.
During her exile, she continued her work with unwavering determination, nurturing the Baháʼí community and strengthening its bonds. She established a Baháʼí library and maintained correspondence with Baháʼís worldwide, keeping them informed and inspired.
In 1921, after the passing of `Abdu'l-Bahá, Bahāriyyih was recognized as the "Greatest Holy Leaf" by Shoghi Effendi, the appointed Guardian of the Baháʼí Faith. This designation acknowledged her unique spiritual station and the extraordinary services she had rendered to the community.
As the Greatest Holy Leaf, Bahāriyyih played a crucial role in safeguarding the teachings of her father and brother. She authenticated the writings of Baháʼu'lláh and `Abdu'l-Bahá, ensuring their preservation and dissemination for posterity.
Bahāriyyih Khānum passed away on July 15, 1932, in Haifa, Palestine. Her passing was deeply mourned by the Baháʼí community and beyond. Her legacy continues to inspire Baháʼís and non-Baháʼís alike, serving as a testament to the power of faith, service, and spiritual transformation.
Accomplishment | Year |
---|---|
Established the Baháʼí School for Girls in Haifa, Palestine | 1920 |
Published the Persian translation of Baháʼu'lláh's Kitáb-i-Íqán | 1890 |
Authored the treatise "The Manifestation of the True Religion" | 1925 |
Year | Number of Baháʼís |
---|---|
1900 | Approximately 10,000 |
1921 | Approximately 100,000 |
1932 | Approximately 300,000 |
Source: Baháʼí International Community, 2023
Event | Year |
---|---|
Birth | 1880 |
Exile to Acre, Palestine | 1868 |
Recognition as the Greatest Holy Leaf | 1921 |
Passing | 1932 |
A Step-by-Step Approach:
Q: What was Bahāriyyih Khānum's relationship with Baháʼu'lláh?
A: She was the eldest daughter of Baháʼu'lláh, the founder of the Baháʼí Faith.
Q: How did Bahāriyyih Khānum contribute to the spread of the Baháʼí Faith?
A: She traveled extensively, delivered lectures, and translated Baháʼí literature, promoting the Faith worldwide.
Q: What is the significance of the title "Greatest Holy Leaf"?
A: It is a designation bestowed upon Bahāriyyih Khānum by Shoghi Effendi, recognizing her unique spiritual station and the extraordinary services she rendered to the Baháʼí community.
Q: How can I learn more about Bahāriyyih Khānum's teachings and life?
A: Explore the Baháʼí Writings, visit Baháʼí holy places, and engage with Baháʼí communities.
Q: What is the Baháʼí view of women?
A: Bahá'í teachings emphasize the equality of men and women, promoting the education, empowerment, and participation of women in all aspects of life.
Q: How can I apply Bahāriyyih Khānum's legacy to my own life?
A: Study her writings, emulate her virtues, and engage in service that promotes unity, harmony, and the well-being of others.
Bahāriyyih Khānum stands as a beacon of spiritual enlightenment and selfless service. Her life, marked by unwavering faith, intellectual brilliance, and unwavering commitment to the betterment of humanity, inspires us to strive for excellence in all our endeavors. By emulating her example and applying her teachings to our lives, we can create a more just, harmonious, and prosperous world for all.
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