Bahá’í Way of Life - For the Individual

During this time the pilgrims visit the Shrines of the Báb, Bahá’u’lláh and `Abdu’l-Bahá. They also visit other sites in the area connected with Bahá’í history, as well as the other buildings at the Bahá’í World Centre.

`Abdu’l-Bahá said that if we love people for the sake of God, we will never become impatient with them. Their good points are a reflection of God.

No food or drink may be taken during this time. `Abdu’l-Bahá said “This material fast is an outer token of the spiritual fast; it is a symbol of self-restraint, the withholding of oneself from all appetites of the self, taking on the characteristics of the spirit, being carried away by the breathings of heaven and catching fire from the love of God.”

A Bahá’í should then meditate on what has been read and take it to heart.

Obligatory prayer and fasting are no longer binding after the age of 70.

Smoking tobacco is also very strongly condemned.

Bahá’u’lláh spent the last 24 years of his life in or near the town of Akka. He died and is buried at his home at Bahji, just outside Akka. This spot is considered by Bahá’ís to be the holiest place on earth.

Before the obligatory prayer, Bahá’ís should wash the hands and face.

Those who are ill or ailing and those travelling long distances are also exempt.

This is a very destructive habit. It destroys the unity of a group of people.