The Baha’i Faith, Cult, Sect or Independent Religion? (Part 1)


Although the Baha'i Faith has been in existence for over 155 years, the following question still persists. Is the Baha'i Faith a cult, a sect of Islam or, as it claims, an independent world religion?

In this, and the following two articles, I hope to explore each of these three alternatives. During this exploration I will supply links to web sites that are not friendly to the Baha'i Faith. I do this because I believe in the independent investigation of truth.

IS THE BAHA'I FAITH A CULT?

Before this question can be explored, one must first define what a cult is. The basic definition for cult is "a system of religious beliefs or rituals." Well, by this definition all religions are cults. Today, there is an implication of the abusive, manipulative, or illegal control by a religious leader or organization connected to the word CULT. Does the Baha'i Faith fit this?

While some do view the Baha'i Faith as cultic, most see it as a false religion, founded by a false prophet. Since I am a member of the Baha'i Faith, it probably does not need to be stated that I do not agree with these positions. Be that as it may, I would like to introduce you to some sites that do pose these points of view. I do this because one of the main tenants of the Baha'i teachings is the independent investigation of truth.

The first site is called Balaam's Ass. The link directs you to the "BAHA'ISM" page. This contains some excerpts from Baha'u'llah's writings with footnoted remarks. It also contains a reprint of an article on the Baha'i Faith from a group called "Computers for Christ" and one link titled, "BAHA'I FAITH AS THEY EXPLAIN IT". I have a few observations on this site I would like to share: 1. This site has chosen to use the name "Baha'ism" as opposed to the name "Baha'i Faith". 2. The article from "Computers for Christ" is, for the most part, historically accurate. That it's tone is not sympathetic to the Baha'i point of view is to be expected 3. The link titled "BAHA'I FAITH AS THEY EXPLAIN IT" is not a site set up by either the Baha'i Faith or by a Baha'i individual, and as such, is miss-leading.. It is one of many parts of a site hosted by Ontario Consultants on Religious Tolerance (I suggest this link as an official Baha'i Site).

The copyright of the article The Baha’i Faith, Cult, Sect or Independent Religion? (Part 1) in Baha'i Faith is owned by Lloyd Madansky. Permission to republish The Baha’i Faith, Cult, Sect or Independent Religion? (Part 1) in print or online must be granted by the author in writing.

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