Our sacred writings and authorised interpretations are available to everybody. We view these texts as divinely inspired.
The original manuscripts of Baha’u’llah’s writings - some written in His own hand and others meticulously transcribed by His personal secretaries - are today kept at the Baha’i World Centre in Haifa, Israel.
Some are mystical works in lofty and beautiful prose, and others are direct statements on morality and ethics. There are scriptures on spiritual and social teachings, prayers, letters and poetic works.
Baha’u’llah’s main works are now available in most of the world's major languages. Selections have been translated into more than 800 tongues and translations are ongoing.
Baha’u’llah’s principal works that have been translated and published in English include:
The Book of Certitude (Kitab-i-Iqan)
Baha’u’llah's principal doctrinal work, which explains the concept of the oneness of religion, the symbolic use of language in the sacred books, and Divine purpose in human history.
Other sacred writings
In addition to the writings of Baha'u'llah, Baha'is also recognize as divine scripture the writings of His Herald, the Bab. Some of these writings have been translated and published in
Selections from the Writings of the Bab.
Authoritative interpretations of the sacred texts by Baha'u'llah and the Bab can be found in the very accessible works of Baha’ullah’s appointed successor, Abdu’l-Baha.
Such books include:
Authoritative interpretations also can be found in the works of Abdul-Baha’s successor, Shoghi Effendi.
Prayers
Inspiring prayers are available for use by everybody to enable us to develop and grow closer to God.
For example there are prayers for assistance with difficulties, and for children and youth, the departed, healing, humanity, marriage, praise and gratitude, protection, and spiritual qualities.
The prayers are by Baha’u’llah, the Bab and Abdu’l-Baha.
Here are some examples of Baha’i prayers.
O my God! Unite the hearts of Thy servants, and reveal to them Thy great purpose. May they follow Thy commandments and abide in Thy law. Help them, O God, in their endeavour, and grant them strength to serve Thee. O God! Leave them not to themselves but guide their steps by the light of Thy knowledge and cheer their hearts by Thy love. Verily, Thou art their Helper and their Lord.
Baha’ullah
Is there any Remover of difficulties save God? Say: Praised be God! He is God! All are His servants, and all abide by His bidding!
The Bab
O God! Refresh and gladden my spirit. Purify my heart. Illumine my powers. I lay all my affairs in Thy hand. Thou art my Guide and my Refuge. I will no longer be sorrowful and grieved; I will be a happy and joyful being. O God! I will no longer be full of anxiety, nor will I let trouble harass me. I will not dwell on the unpleasant things of life. O God! Thou art more friend to me than I am to myself. I dedicate myself to Thee, O Lord.
Abdu’l-Baha