The Local and National
Spiritual Assemblies

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Go to the National Spiritual Assembly

The Local Spiritual Assembly:
In every city where at least nine (9) adult Baha'i's live a Local Spiritual Assembly (LSA) is formed.  The LSA is elected every year at Ridvan by the membership of the community by secret ballot.  No politics or electioneering is permitted.  There are no nominations, or discussion of candidates.  No Baha'i is allowed to indicate their willingness or desire to serve, or not to serve. 

"Every declared believer of 21 years and above, far from standing aloof and assuming an indifferent or independent attitude, should regard it his sacred duty to take part conscientiously and diligently, in the election, the consolidation and efficient working of his own local Assembly." -- Shoghi Effendi, Baha'i Administration, p 88.

When considering whom to vote for, each Baha'i who is eligable to vote must privately consider

"...who can best combine the necessary qualities of unquestioned loyalty, of selfless devotion, of a well-trained mind, of recognized ability and mature experience." -- Shoghi Effendi, Baha'i Administration, p 88. 

No one knows who voted for whom in a Baha'i election.  The community selects those individuals it deems best qualified to direct its affairs.  It is the obligation of those elected to serve on the Assembly unless prevented by other overriding factors.

The LSA is responsible for local administration, teaching, and promotion of the deepening and development of the local Baha'i community.

The National Spiritual Assembly:
The National Spiritual Assembly (NSA) is elected every year at Ridvan by delegates to a national convention.  These delegates are selected at  annual district conventions following the rules for Baha'i elections given above.  The NSA is responsible for directing the affairs of the national communty, fostering its growth and development.  There are only three layers in Baha'i administration.  The Local Spiritual Assembly is under the control and direction of the NSA, which in turn is under the control and direction of the Universal House of Justice.   In the same way that the LSA is responsible for local administration, teaching, and protection of the Faith, so too, the NSA is responsible for the same elements, but on the national level.