Here is a list of the central figures of the Faith (in chronological order) followed by a list of the Institutions and an explanation of the governance of the Faith.
The Bab (The Gate), Prophet-Founder of the Babi Faith, and the Herald of the Baha'i Faith
Baha'u'llah (The Glory of God), Prophet-Founder of the Baha'i Faith, prophesied by The Bab
'Abdu'l Baha (Servant of Glory), The Center of the Covenant of Baha'u'llah, and its Exemplar
Shoghi Effendi, The Guardian of the Faith, appointed by 'Abdu'l Baha in His Will and Testament
The Universal House of Justice, the supreme governing body of the Baha'i Faith, located in Haifa, Israel
The Local and National Spiritual Assemblies
The Baha'i Faith is unique in the history of the world. It is the first time that the words of the Prophet-Founder have been given in His own hand, or under His supervision by an amenuensis ( a kind of personal secretary). Further, the Faith has been protected from schism by the Prophet Himself by the means of His Covenant and Testament which appointed His successor until such time as the Institutions prescribed by the Writings could be established. For the first time in history, there is no clergy! This is extraordinary! In this day and age, most people can read and therefore investigate and deepen on their own in the Holy Writings. Therefore, there is no need for a clergy to tell the people what to believe. That day is over. From this day forward, each person is individually responsible for what they believe, and cannot depend on any other person, but must determine the truth for themselves.
This page last updated on: Saturday, March 08, 2003