Ascension of Bahau’llah
The Ascension of Bahá’u’lláh is one of the holiest days in the Bahá’í Faith, commemorating the passing of Bahá’u’lláh, the religion’s founder, on May 29, 1892. This solemn occasion marks the end of Bahá’u’lláh’s earthly life and his spiritual ascension.
Quick Facts
- When is it?: May 29
- Tagged as: Religious observance, Bahá’í holy day
- What’s the hashtag?: #AscensionOfBahaullah
- When was it founded?: 1892
- Who founded it?: Bahá’í followers after Bahá’u’lláh’s passing
History of the Ascension of Bahá’u’lláh
Bahá’u’lláh, the founder of the Bahá’í Faith, passed away on May 29, 1892, at the age of 75. He had been exiled and imprisoned for much of his life due to his religious teachings. In the months leading up to his death, Bahá’u’lláh had expressed his desire to depart from this world. He contracted a fever on May 8, 1892, which worsened over time. On May 29, at 3 am, Bahá’u’lláh passed away in the Mansion of Bahjí, near Acre in present-day Israel.
Timeline
- 1817: Birth of Bahá’u’lláh
- 1863: Bahá’u’lláh declares his mission as a Manifestation of God
- 1868: Bahá’u’lláh is exiled to Acre
- 1892: Bahá’u’lláh passes away on May 29
- 1893: First observance of the Ascension of Bahá’u’lláh
Upcoming Dates
| Year | Month and Date | Day |
|---|---|---|
| 2025 | May 29 | Thursday |
| 2026 | May 29 | Friday |
| 2027 | May 29 | Saturday |
| 2028 | May 29 | Monday |
| 2029 | May 29 | Tuesday |
| 2030 | May 29 | Wednesday |
Observed
The Ascension of Bahá’u’lláh is observed by Bahá’ís worldwide. It is one of the nine holy days in the Bahá’í calendar when work and school are suspended. Bahá’ís gather for prayer and reflection, often starting at 3 am, the time of Bahá’u’lláh’s passing. They read from Bahá’í scriptures, particularly those related to Bahá’u’lláh’s life and teachings. The day is marked by a somber and meditative atmosphere as believers contemplate Bahá’u’lláh’s spiritual legacy.
Fun Facts About the Ascension of Bahá’u’lláh
- Bahá’u’lláh’s burial place in Acre, Israel, is considered the holiest spot on earth for Bahá’ís.
- The event is sometimes referred to as the “Ascension of Bahá’u’lláh to the Abhá Kingdom.”
- Bahá’u’lláh appointed his eldest son, ‘Abdu’l-Bahá, as his successor, ensuring the continuity of the faith’s leadership.
Quiz
- On what date is the Ascension of Bahá’u’lláh observed?
- How old was Bahá’u’lláh when he passed away?
- Where did Bahá’u’lláh pass away?
(Answers: 1. May 29, 2. 75 years old, 3. Mansion of Bahjí near Acre, Israel)
FAQs
Q: Can non-Bahá’ís participate in Ascension of Bahá’u’lláh observances?
A: Yes, Bahá’í events are generally open to all, and interested individuals are often welcome to join in prayers and commemorations.
Q: How long do Ascension of Bahá’u’lláh observances typically last?
A: While the main observance often begins at 3 am, commemorations can continue throughout the day, with various gatherings and prayer sessions.
Importance of the Ascension of Bahá’u’lláh
The Ascension of Bahá’u’lláh is of paramount importance to Bahá’ís as it marks the culmination of Bahá’u’lláh’s earthly ministry. It represents the transition of his spiritual guidance from a physical to a celestial realm. This day serves as a time for Bahá’ís to reflect on Bahá’u’lláh’s teachings, renew their commitment to his vision of world unity, and draw inspiration from his life and writings.
Related
- World Religion Day
- Declaration of the Báb
- Birth of Bahá’u’lláh
- Ridván Festival
- Day of the Covenant