Based on insights from The Guardian (June 29, 2025). Read the original here: www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2025/jun/29/what-if-the-worlds-religions-arent-competing-but-rather-one-unfolding-truth
What if the world’s religions aren’t really rivals, but chapters in one grand story? That’s the question raised in a recent Guardian piece, suggesting that perhaps faiths are not separate and conflicting, but parts of a single unfolding revelation.
This idea is at the heart of the Baha’i Faith. From its inception, Baha’is have taught that religion is progressive—God sends Messengers over time, each building on the work of those before. These Manifestations renew spiritual teachings and laws to match humanity’s evolving needs.
`Abdu’l-Bahá put it plainly:
“The religion of God is one religion, but it must ever be renewed.”
(The Promulgation of Universal Peace, p. 364)
And again:
“All the Prophets of God, His holy ones and chosen ones, are the manifestations on earth of the power, the majesty and the grace of that ideal King…”
(Selections from the Writings of `Abdu’l-Bahá, p. 53)
From Abraham to Moses, from Jesus to Muhammad, and now to Bahá’u’lláh, the Baha’i Faith sees each of these as bringing new social teachings and spiritual light suited to humanity’s capacity and stage of development.
Toward Unity, Not Rivalry
This perspective changes how we see religious difference: instead of conflicts to be won, they become opportunities for dialogue, respect, and cooperation. Each revelation is part of a continuous story leading us toward greater justice, equality, and peace.
Baha’is believe this understanding can help people of faith work together, rather than compete, as we tackle the challenges facing our world—from climate change to poverty to building more united communities.
In Summary: The Guardian article echoes a central Baha’i belief: humanity’s spiritual journey is a story with many chapters, each religion building upon the last. In that light, religious diversity isn’t chaos; it’s the beauty of growth.
Read the full original piece at The Guardian: www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2025/jun/29/what-if-the-worlds-religions-arent-competing-but-rather-one-unfolding-truth
