ObeisanceBaha – Descriptive Bahá’í Historia
*Note: Several photos contained on this website have appeared on various Baha’i sponsored blogs and other media. When using our photos, assign attribution as: ©Terry Randolph, ObeisanceBaha.
Introduction
Our primary purpose is for the preservation of Baha’i history—to record little known events and especially activities of those ‘front-line’ workers who, often with great personal sacrifice, bore the weight of success or failure of Baha’i programs, teaching campaigns, and community consolidation efforts. We are all familiar with the work of well-known Baha’i leaders and teachers. But until a more detailed, inclusive, complete, and realistic narrative of Baha’i historical events and those who made success possible, a proper assessment of the growth, development, and expansion of the world-wide Baha’i Community will remain, to a great extent, incomplete; therefore, archived materials are a necessity. This website will continuly to be updated.
Invitation
We place great importance in identifying and documenting that which remains unknown to current Baha’i discourse. You are invited to explore ObeisanceBaha and experience what available. While still under development, this site will become resource rich with information about little-known activities and events, and about those who helped to make it possible. Please join with us in this activity, to make available through us to the larger Baha’i Community the wealth of knowledge, information, and material you have available. We assign credit for what you contribute. Thanks for your willingness to take part.
Author
Our archives are a starting point from which to expand the operation. As most materials are in storage, to be retrieved, prepared and then made available when time permits. As of January 2022, the website is being upgraded. It will also be expanded to include additional posts and archive material.
Research
This site provides links, above and below, to resources that can assist your research efforts. Not all-inclusive because new websites continue to come online. Please let us know of new sites of importance, and also of any links no longer active.
Archives
We support historical research. Our archives contain information on Baha’i activities dating to the early 1960s. It includes events and activities, participants, and a variety of supporting material preserved for historical record. Examples include photographs, documents, interviews, observations, and research based on primary, secondary, and tertiary sources. We hope to provide researchers and interested parties with quality of information to augment efforts to provide an inclusive appraisal of the growth, development, and expansion of the Baha’i Community.
Preservation
Links below and above provide access a wealth of information on ways to preserve documents, photographs, videos, and other resource material. This can help you understand the importance and also gain appreciation for the need to document and preserve materials in personal collections.
Writings of The Báb
O Lord! Unto Thee I repair for refuge and toward all Thy signs I set my heart. O Lord! Whether travelling or at home, and in my occupation or in my work, I place my whole trust in Thee.
The most acceptable prayer is the one offered with the utmost spirituality and radiance; its prolongation hath not been and is not beloved by God. The more detached and the purer the prayer, the more acceptable is it in the presence of God.
Wert thou to open the heart of a single soul by helping him to embrace the Cause of Him Whom God shall make manifest, thine inmost being would be filled with the inspirations of that august Name.
Shrine of the Báb and the Haifa Bay. Copyright © Bahá’í International Community
People and Events In Historical Perspective
We provide information on little known Baha’i events and those who who shared the challenges of bring them about. This includes perspectives from the Baha’i writings, research, and personal experience of those dedicated belivers who worked tirelessly to meet the challenges of advancing a new world order.
About Us
We are a center of learning and research dedicated to providing a deeper understanding of Baha’i historical events and those who were intricately involved in the experience.
Historical Perspective
We show the normal functioning of Baha’i communities in historical perspective through people, events and activities to preserve little known facts.
Archiving
Our archives contain source materials accumulated since 1965, and are presented here to document people, places and events instrumental in the growth of Baha’i community life.
Image Wall
The Image Wall allows visitors to browse posts or pages by simply clicking on any image. Images are displayed randomly and are scrollable. Please note that some few images may be place-holders.
Projects
A digital archiving project is a process of preserving data for long-term retention. This can extend the life span of content for easy access and also help to avoid future issues.
Study
Studying the Baha’i Faith resembles the activity of an explorer. It means discovering, gathering and research of a variety of sources, and in our case it is photographically based.
Hidden Words of Bahá’u’lláh
O SON OF SPIRIT! My first counsel is this: Possess a pure, kindly and radiant heart, that thine may be a sovereignty ancient, imperishable and everlasting.
O SON OF MAN! Veiled in My immemorial being and in the ancient eternity of My essence, I knew My love for thee; therefore I created thee, have engraved on thee Mine image and revealed to thee My beauty.
O SON OF SPIRIT! Noble have I created thee, yet thou hast abased thyself. Rise then unto that for which thou wast created.”
Research
For research purposes the distinctions between primary, secondary, and tertiary sources can be ambiguous. An individual document may be a primary source in one context and a secondary source in another. Encyclopedias are typically considered tertiary sources, but a study of how encyclopedias have changed on the Internet, seemingly, would use them as primary sources. Because time is a defining element, for our purposes these distinctions remain more loosely defined.
Center of Learning
ObeisanceBaha pursues learning through research experience. We are dedicated to fostering deeper understanding and appreciation for the Baha’i experience. Through our collections, pursuits and projects we seek to nurture factual rendering of Baha’i history.
Entrance to the Shrine of Bahá’u’lláh. Copyright © Bahá’í International Community
Library
DRAFT—Historical method comprises the techniques and guidelines uses as primary sources and other evidence to research and then to write to form accounts of the past. Information evaluation is the process of evaluating the qualities of an information source, such as its validity, reliability, and relevance to the subject under investigation.
Archives
ObeisanceBaha holds an extensive catalogue of research data, documents, studies, reports and other items. It also includes a Name-List of individuals referenced on its website. Information relevant to specific references is compiled and can be searched using the search function.
Catalogue
ObeisanceBaha holds an extensive catalogue of research data, documents, studies, reports and other items. It also includes a Name-List of individuals referenced on its website. Information relevant to specific references is compiled and can be searched using the search function.
Access
Historical method comprises the techniques and guidelines uses as primary sources and other evidence to research and then to write to form accounts of the past. Information evaluation is the process of evaluating the qualities of an information source, such as its validity, reliability, and relevance to the subject under investigation.
Purpose
For research purposes the distinctions between primary, secondary, and tertiary sources can be ambiguous. An individual document may be a primary source in one context and a secondary source in another. Encyclopedias are typically considered tertiary sources, but a study of how encyclopedias have changed on the Internet, seemingly, would use them as primary sources. Because time is a defining element, for our purposes these distinctions remain more loosely defined.
Sharing
Information can come from virtually anywhere — media, blogs, photographs, personal experiences, books, news articles, journal and magazine articles, expert opinions, encyclopedias, oral accounting, and web pages — and the type of information we require most likely will change depending on the question we are trying to answer.
Procedures
Procedures for contradictory source criticism
Principles
Core principles for determining reliability
Evidence
Eyewitness evidence as real meaning of the statement
Indirect witnesses
Caution with indirect and secondary source of knowledge
Oral Tradition
Oral tradition must satisfy certain conditions
Anonymous Sources
Anonymous sources not used for historical facts
Panama Baha’i Temple Site
Temple Cornerstone
Dedication Ceremony
Baha’i Intercontential Conference, Panama, 7-10 Oct, 1967.
Peter Tillotson (Architect), Hands of the Cause: Abu’l-Qásim Faizi, Amatu’l-Bahá Rúhíyyih Khánum
Photo © ObeisanceBaha
Membership
Historical method comprises the techniques and guidelines uses as primary sources and other evidence to research and then to write to form accounts of the past. Information evaluation is the process of evaluating the qualities of an information source, such as its validity, reliability, and relevance to the subject under investigation.
Certification
ObeisanceBaha holds an extensive catalogue of research data, documents, studies, reports and other items. It also includes a Name-List of individuals referenced on its website. Information relevant to specific references is compiled and can be searched using the search function.
Writings of ‘Abdu’l‑Bahá
The Faith of the Blessed Beauty is summoning mankind to safety and love, to amity and peace; it hath raised up its tabernacle on the heights of the earth, and directeth its call to all nations.
O thou whose heart overfloweth with love for the Lord! I address thee from this consecrated spot, to gladden thy bosom with mine epistle to thee, for this is such a letter as maketh the heart of him who believeth in God’s oneness to wing its flight toward the summits of bliss.
Service to the friends is service to the Kingdom of God, and consideration shown to the poor is one of the greatest teachings of God.
Seat of the Universal House of Justice. Copyright © Bahá’í International Community
Primary Sources
Our primary sources of information allow researchers to get as close as possible to original ideas, events, and empirical research as possible; however, for our purposes, this remains more loosely defined. Baha’i news sources contain reports on activities of the worldwide Baha’i community, considered official sources of information regarding the activities, people, places and events during and to a limited extent beyond the early 1900s.
Baha'i News Volume I
Baha’i News was a publication circulated from March 1910 until March of 1911. It represents the first volume of Star of the West prior to its renaming (Vol. 2), and ran from 1924 to 1990.
Star of the West
Star of the West was published between 1910 and 1935, and contains many translations of Tablets and communications not published elsewhere. The was first published as ‘Bahai News’.
Baha'i News Letter
The Baha’i News Letter was a 40-issue publication between December of 1924 and May of 1930. At issue 41 the title was changed to Baha’i News and continued publication. Photo © Bahá’í Int’l Com.
Baha'i News
Baha’i News was a publication circulated from December of 1924 until October of 1990. The title ‘Baha’i News’ begins at issue 41, the first 40 issues were titled ‘Baha’i News Letter’.
National Baha'i Review
National Bahá’í Review, an insert included with Baha’i News with subjects of interest to believers in the United States. Began in 1958 titled “U.S. Supplement”. Photo © Bahá’í Int’l Com
Baha'i World News Service
Bahá’í World News Service, official news source of the worldwide Bahá’í community, reports on major endeavors of the global Baha’i community. Photo © Bahá’í Int’l Com
The Baha'i World Publication
The Bahá’í World chronicles over 80 years of religious history, and described by Shoghi Effendi as a unique record of world-wide Bahá’í activity available to the general public.
Baha'i Media Bank
The Bahá’í Media Bank provides photographs for download, intended for non-commercial purposes only. It contains images and information of Baha’i activities around the globe.
Association for Baha'i Studies
The Association for Bahá’í Studies, founded in Canada in 1975, promotes the advanced study of the Bahá’í Faith and the application of its principles to the needs of humanity.
The Bahá’í Faith
“Bahá’ís believe the crucial need facing humanity is to find a unifying vision of the future of society and of the nature and purpose of life. Such a vision unfolds in the writings of Bahá’u’lláh.” Explore the Bahá’í Faith.
Writings of the Báb
Excerpts from books and Tablets revealed by the Báb.
Works of Bahá’u’lláh
Writings of Bahá’u’lláh translated into English.
‘Abdu’l-Bahá
Expounding upon the teachings of Bahá’u’lláh.
Shoghi Effendi
The appointed Guardian of the Bahá’í Faith.
Supreme Executive
The Universal House of Justice of the Baha’i Faith.
Global Locations
National Baha’i Communities.
Baha’i National Center
Counsellor Members
Ms. Kimiko Schwerin & Dr. Kim
OB Archives
National Baha’i Center, Seoul, ROK, ca. 1986. Baha’i Continental Board of Counsellors: Mrs. K. Schwerin (1st row, 2nd frm right); Dr. Kim (stnd., 2nd frm right). Photo ©ObeisanceBaha
Global Religious Community
We are concerned primarily with the ideas, values, successes and circumstances that bind us together historically as a global religious community.
Writings of Shoghi Effendi
This new stage in the gradual unfoldment of the Formative Period of our Faith into which we have just entered—the phase of concentrated teaching activity—synchronizes with a period of deepening gloom, of universal impotence, of ever-increasing destitution and widespread disillusionment in the fortunes of a declining age.
The promulgation of the Divine Plan, unveiled by our departed Master in the darkest days of one of the severest ordeals which humanity has ever experienced,18 is the Key which Providence has placed in the hands of the American believers whereby to unlock the doors leading them to fulfill their unimaginably glorious Destiny.
Fountain at the Riḍván Garden. Copyright © Bahá’í International Community
Image above: Amoz Gipson, UHJ Member, seen here with one of the Howard sisters (Della or Anna), both were long-time Baha’is, taught the Faith in Washington, DC by Louis Gregory. Meeting held in Prince Georges County, MD, ca 1969.
Secondary Sources
Our secondary sources of information analyze, review, or summarize information in primary resources or other secondary resources; however, for our purposes, this remains more loosely defined. Even sources presenting facts or descriptions about events are secondary unless they are based on direct participation or observation. Our secondary sources include events, people, special works, topics, and facts that provide substantial analysis. Most are post-1930.
Collections/Baha'i Faith Materials
The author has compiled a list of English language based sources, primary texts and authoritative literature, on the Baha’i Faith that can be considered essential to a theological library.
Bibliography/Literature Reviews
Bibliographies and literature reviews of Baha’i materials. Sources cited are deemed relevant for undertaking an independent and objective inquiry into the Baha’i Faith. Photo © Bahá’í Int’l Com.
Bahaikipedia
Bahaikipedia is a collaborative encyclopedia on the Bahá’í Faith that exists to make factual information easily accessible in a single location. Article links will guide you to associated information.
US National Bahá'í Library
The US National Bahá’í Library is online and available to researchers and bibliophiles. It includes books, pamphlets, study materials, and national and international Bahá’í periodicals.
Louhelen Baha'i Library
The Web-based catalog allows public access to descriptions of the National Bahá’í Library’s cataloged titles and also those held at the Louhelen Bahá’í School’s library.
Harvard Divinity School
The Religious Literacy Project is dedicated to enhance and promote understanding of religion, providing resources to better understand the roles religions play in global, national, and local contexts.
Accentuating Baha’i History
We focus on extending both the theoretical and historiographical bases for photographic accentuation of Baha’i history. This provides an important base for the further development and preservation of materials vital for historical research.
Volunteer Group
Becoming involved in this very exciting project.
Adaptable
Remain open verifiable data and analysis.
Craftsmanship
Elevating this history to greater prominence.
Multi - Use
Encourage objectivity and understanding.
Special Collections
Identify materials, catalogue the collection.
Accessability
Archives made available for research and learning.
Global Economics Forum
Baha’i Sponsored Event
Washington, DC
Global Economics Forum, Washington, DC (ca. 1969)
Attending [L/R]: James Oliver, Maxine Oliver, Helen Harris, Theodies Washington, Unknown, Silvia Ioas
Seated: Antoniette Washington, Anita I. Chapman. Photo © ObeisanceBaha
Documentation
Our archives contain materials accumulated since 1965 and presented to document people, places and events instrumental to the expansion, growth and development of Baha’i communities. The project enable stories that would otherwise go unheard to be shared and appreciated.
Universal House of Justice
Ultimately, the call to action is addressed to the individual friends, whether they be adult or youth, veteran or newly enrolled. Let them step forth to take their places in the arena of service where their talents and skills, their specialized training, their material resources, their offers of time and energy and, above all, their dedication to Bahá’í principles, can be put to work in improving the lot of man.
Persevere, therefore, with diligence and steadfastness along this path of endeavour. As you do so, strive to perceive the nobility in every human being—rich or poor, man or woman, old or young, city dweller or villager, worker or employer, irrespective of ethnicity or religion.
__________
Tertiary Sources
Our tertiary sources of information provide overviews of topics by synthesizing information gathered from other resources; however, for our purposes, this remains more loosely defined. Our tertiary sources often provide data in a convenient form or provide information within a particular context convenient for more complete analysis and interpretation.
Sen McGlinn's Blog
“I am interested especially in Bahai theology (theology is what Bahais usually call ‘deepening,’ but conducted in a systematic and self-critical way)…”
H-Net/H-Baha'i
H-Bahai encourages scholarly discussion of the culture and history of millenarian and/or esoteric religious traditions originating in modern Iran and other regions.
UK Baha'i History Project
Collecting stories of individual Baha’is currently living in the UK, or have lived here in the past. Sponsored by: The National Spiritual Assembly of the Bahai’s of the UK. Photo © Bahá’í Int’l Com
Encyclopaedia Iranica
Encyclopædia Iranica is dedicated to the study of Iranian civilization in the Middle East, the Caucasus, Central Asia and the Indian Subcontinent.
Baha'iTeaching.org
Perspectives given by members of the Baha’i Faith who are striving to deepen their understanding of the Baha’i teachings and to apply them to contemporary challenges.
Juan Cole Publications
The main idea behind this effort is to preserve for prosperity those mostly little known events and activities that contributed to the expansion of Baha’i communities.
Our Core Capabilities
Core capabilities are addressed through spiritual values, moral principles and ethical criteria that denote standards of conduct. This directly impacts individual performance and institutional practices.
System of Ethics
Human happiness achieved through rightful action.
Divine Attributes
Acting accordingly to discover our spiritual nature.
Baha'i Scriptures
Foundation and inspiration of Baha’i ethics.
Justice
Upon which social order and good governance depend.
Essence of Faith
Consists in “fewness of words and abundance of deeds”.
Spiritual Guidance
The pathway most conducive to human happiness.
US National Baha’i Convention
Baha’i House of Worship
Foundation Hall
OB Archives
Hands of the Cause of God
Dr. Dhikru’llah Khadem (1904–1986), Mr. John Aldham Robarts (1901–1991)
Baha’i National Convention, Baha’i House of Worship, Wilmette, IL. 1986.
Photo © ObeisanceBaha
Draped stage flanked by Baha’i symbols. Top: Image of Abdul-Baha.
