The Bahá’í Faith has eleven (11) holy days, which are important anniversaries in the history of the religion. Nine of these holy days are days when work is suspended.
Work is not suspended on the Bahá’í holy days of the Day of the Covenant and the Ascension of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá.
On the evening of 6 Qawl, 181 B.E., corresponding to 27 November 2024, as per newly implemented Bahá’í Calendar, millions of Bahá’ís around the world will unite in prayer, reflection, and reverence to honor ‘Abdu’l-Bahá. This occasion not only commemorates the passing of one of history’s most revered spiritual figures but also provides an opportunity to reflect on His extraordinary life of service to humanity.
‘Abdu’l-Bahá, was the eldest son of Bahá’u’lláh, the Prophet-Founder of the Bahá’í Faith. He is the appointed Center of Bahá’u’lláh’s Covenant.
From the age of eight, ‘Abdu’l-Bahá shared His Father’s exile and imprisonment.
‘Abdu’l-Bahá, born on 23 May 1844, played a pivotal role in guiding the global Bahá’í community after the ascension of His Father, Bahá’u’lláh, the Prophet-Founder of the Bahá’í Faith. He exemplified the principles of the Faith—unity, justice, compassion, and selfless service—and became a beacon of hope and inspiration to people of all backgrounds.
Throughout His life, He demonstrated praiseworthy qualities and was known for His loving kindness, selfless spirit of service, and generosity, especially towards those in need. Bahá’u’lláh referred to Him as “the Master”, “the Mystery of God” and “a shelter for all mankind”, however, ‘Abdu’l-Bahá preferred to be called “Abdu’l-Baha”, meaning “the Servant of Baha”, in reference to His servitude to Bahá’u’lláh and His teachings.
In Bahá’u’lláh’s Will and Testament, He instructed all to turn to ‘Abdu’l-Bahá as the authorized interpreter of the Bahá’í Writings and also as the perfect exemplar of the Bahá’í Faith’s spirit and teachings.
When finally released from prison, ‘Abdu’l-Bahá traveled to Egypt, Europe, and North America, to promote the Bahá’í teachings, giving numerous public talks and interviews, and meeting with people from all walks of life.
When Abdu’l-Bahá passed away at the age of 77 on 28 November 1921, in the Holy Land, His funeral was attended by 10,000 mourners of numerous religious backgrounds. In spontaneous tributes to an admired personality, He was eulogized as One who led humanity to the “Way of Truth,” as a “pillar of peace” and the embodiment of “glory and greatness.”
Known as the “Servant of God,” ‘Abdu’l-Bahá devoted His life to alleviating suffering, fostering harmony among diverse peoples, and building bridges of understanding. He tirelessly advocated for racial equality, gender equity, and universal peace, which earned Him the admiration of leaders, intellectuals, and the common people alike.
During His travels in Europe and North America (1911–1913), He articulated the Bahá’í vision of a united and peaceful world, addressing gatherings at churches, synagogues, universities, and public forums. His teachings emphasized the oneness of humanity, the elimination of prejudices, and the essential harmony of science and religion.
As mentioned above, the ascension of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá occurred on 28 November 1921 (6 Qawl in the Bahá’í calendar) in Haifa, in what is now Israel. The news of His passing deeply moved people worldwide, leading to an unprecedented outpouring of grief and respect. His funeral in Haifa was attended by over 10,000 mourners of diverse faiths and backgrounds, a testament to His universal appeal and unifying influence.
This year, Bahá’í communities worldwide will host special gatherings, devotional programs, and acts of service to honor this solemn event. The Universal House of Justice, the supreme governing body of the Bahá’í Faith, has encouraged believers to reflect on the life and teachings of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá, recommitting themselves to His example of selflessness and dedication to humanity.
In the sacred city of Haifa, at the Shrine of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá—the final resting place of this extraordinary figure—thousands of pilgrims and visitors will gather to pay their respects. Devotional programs featuring prayers, sacred writings, and reflections will be conducted in various languages to accommodate the diverse participants.
Let us ponder on the following Key Highlights:
‘Abdu’l-Bahá passed away in Haifa, Palestine (now Israel), in the early hours of November 28, 1921.
His passing was deeply mourned by individuals of various religions, nationalities, and social strata.
The funeral on November 29, 1921, was unprecedented in its diversity, with representatives of major religions, civic leaders, and ordinary citizens paying tribute.
Thousands walked together, exemplifying the unity and love ‘Abdu’l-Bahá championed throughout His life.
‘Abdu’l-Bahá was laid to rest in a vault in the Shrine of the Báb on Mount Carmel.
As the Center of the Covenant, ‘Abdu’l-Bahá ensured the Faith remained unified, interpreting His father Bahá’u’lláh’s writings and guiding the global Bahá’í community.
His Will and Testament established the Guardianship, ensuring a framework for the Faith’s continued growth and cohesion.
‘Abdu’l-Bahá exemplified the teachings of Bahá’u’lláh through His actions, embodying humility, service, and love.
His life was a testament to the principles of unity in diversity, interfaith harmony, and the upliftment of humanity.
His travels to Europe and North America between 1911-1913 were instrumental in spreading the Bahá’í teachings globally.
He engaged with leaders, intellectuals, and communities, emphasizing universal peace and justice.
‘Abdu’l-Bahá’s efforts to alleviate suffering, especially during World War I, left a lasting impression of the Faith’s commitment to humanitarian service.
His writings and talks continue to inspire millions around the world.
The anniversary of His passing is observed with reverence by Bahá’ís worldwide, serving as a reminder of His exemplary life and His pivotal role in the establishment and progress of the Bahá’í Faith.
The new Shrine of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá, which is being built in a southeastern Akko garden about 4 km. from the existing Shrine of Bahá’u’lláh, the burial site of the Prophet-Founder of the Bahá’í Faith and the holiest site for the Bahá’í religion, will house the remains of His eldest son, Abdu’l Baha (1844-1921), who spread the faith in the West and was temporarily buried in Haifa a century ago.
As Bahá’ís and their friends commemorate this historic occasion, they reaffirm their commitment to building a society that reflects the principles and ideals embodied by ‘Abdu’l-Bahá. His life remains a testament to the transformative power of love, humility, and unwavering devotion to the betterment of the world.
Compiled by
Jaya Raju Thota, Greater Visakhapatnam, Andhra Pradesh, India
