Naw-Ruz (`New Day’) is the Baha’i and Iranian new year, which occurs on the date of the vernal equinox, either the 20th or 21st of March. In the Baha’i Calendar, the day begins at sunset. (This year (2025) sundset on March 19th). Speaking to a group on Naw-Ruz in 1913, ‘Abdu’l-Baha stated: At this moment…
Mona Mahmudnizhad, affectionately known as Mona, was born on September 10, 1965, in Yemen to dedicated Bahá’í parents, Yad’u’llah and Farkhundeh Mahmudnizhad. Her early years were marked by her family’s commitment to their faith, which eventually led them back to Iran in 1969 due to political changes in Yemen. Settling in Shiraz, a city of…
In a time when messages of unity and inclusivity are both championed and challenged, one Idaho middle school teacher’s commitment to embracing all students has sparked national attention. Sarah Inama, known for her dedication to fostering an inclusive classroom environment, recently faced administrative pushback for displaying posters promoting acceptance. The controversy began when Inama was…
Dearly-beloved Greatest Holy Leaf! Through the mist of tears that fill my eyes I can clearly see, as I pen these lines, thy noble figure before me, and can recognize the serenity of thy kindly face. I can still gaze, though the shadows of the grave separate us, into thy blue, love-deep eyes, and can feel…
Few individuals have left as profound a legacy of service, leadership, and devotion as Amatu’l-Bahá Rúhíyyih Khánum. A towering figure in the Bahá’í Faith, her life was dedicated to promoting unity, advancing social progress, and championing the principles of peace and justice. An essay published on Bahai.org beautifully captures the remarkable journey of this extraordinary…
Margaret E. Knight, often called “the female Edison,” is one of the most influential yet under-recognized inventors of the 19th century. Born in 1838, Knight made groundbreaking contributions to the industrial world, especially in the packaging industry. Her invention of the flat-bottomed paper bag machine revolutionized packaging, leaving a lasting legacy. With over 20 patents…
The conversation about gender equality continues to evolve, and a recent episode of the Bahá’í World News Service podcast explores the spiritual foundations of this essential issue. Representatives from the Addis Ababa, Brussels, Cairo, and New York Offices of the Bahá’í International Community (BIC) reflect on the progress made and the barriers that still exist…
Helen Keller (1880–1968) remains one of the most inspiring figures in modern history. Deaf and blind from an early age, she overcame incredible challenges to become a renowned author, activist, and humanitarian. Her story of resilience continues to impact generations worldwide. Early Life and Education Helen Adams Keller was born on June 27, 1880, in…
March 12 marks National Girl Scout Day, a special occasion that honors the incredible contributions of Girl Scouts nationwide. For over a century, the Girl Scouts have been pivotal in empowering young girls through leadership, service, and skill-building opportunities. Founded in 1912 by Juliette Gordon Low, the Girl Scouts organization has shaped generations of confident,…
The world today is facing tremendous challenges—wars, political division, climate crises, and social unrest seem to dominate the headlines. It’s easy to feel overwhelmed, even powerless. But what if there’s another way to look at it? Can spirituality offer a real solution to global chaos? In a compelling discussion, Payam Akhavan, a leading human rights…
