Religion founded in the 19th century
from a Muslim splinter group, Babism, by the
Persian Baha'ullah. His message in essence
was that all great religious leaders are
manifestations of the unknowable God and all
scriptures are sacred. There is no
priesthood: all Baha'is are expected to
teach, and to work towards world unification.
There are about 4.5 million Baha'is
worldwide. Great stress is laid on equality
regardless of religion, race, or gender.
Drugs and alcohol are forbidden, as is
celibacy. Marriage is strongly encouraged;
there is no arranged marriage, but parental
approval must be given. Baha'is are expected
to pray daily, but there is no set prayer.
From 2 to 20 Mar, adults under 70 fast from
sunrise to sunset. Administration is carried
out by an elected body, the Universal House
of Justice.