Ridván

Ridván (pronounced "Riz-wan") is a twelve-day festival in the Bahá'í Faith, celebrated annually from April 21 to May 2. It commemorates the period in 1863 when Bahá'u'lláh, the founder of the Bahá'í Faith, publicly declared his mission as the latest Manifestation of God. This declaration took place in the Ridván Garden near Baghdad, Iraq, shortly before Bahá'u'lláh's exile to Constantinople (now Istanbul, Turkey).

Historical Background

The Ridván Festival marks a pivotal moment in Bahá'í history. In 1863, Bahá'u'lláh was living in Baghdad, having been exiled from his native Persia (modern-day Iran) due to his religious teachings, which were seen as a threat by the Persian authorities. During his time in Baghdad, Bahá'u'lláh's reputation as a spiritual leader grew, attracting many followers.

In April 1863, Bahá'u'lláh was informed that he would be further exiled to Constantinople. Before departing, he spent twelve days in a garden on the banks of the Tigris River, which became known as the Ridván Garden. It was during this time that Bahá'u'lláh declared to a small group of followers that he was the Promised One foretold by the Báb, the founder of the Bábí Faith, and by other religious traditions.

Significance

Ridván is often referred to as the "Most Great Festival" and is considered the "King of Festivals" in the Bahá'í calendar. It is a time of joy and celebration, marking the birth of a new religious dispensation. The festival is characterized by community gatherings, prayers, and the election of local and national Bahá'í administrative bodies.

The first, ninth, and twelfth days of Ridván are particularly significant and are observed as holy days on which work is suspended. The first day commemorates Bahá'u'lláh's arrival in the Ridván Garden, the ninth day marks the arrival of his family, and the twelfth day celebrates his departure for Constantinople.

Observance

During Ridván, Bahá'ís around the world gather for special prayers and celebrations. The festival is a time for reflection on the teachings of Bahá'u'lláh and the principles of the Bahá'í Faith, such as the oneness of humanity, the unity of religion, and the importance of justice and peace.

One of the unique aspects of Ridván is the election of Bahá'í administrative bodies. Local Spiritual Assemblies are elected on the first day of Ridván, and National Spiritual Assemblies are elected during the Ridván period. These elections are conducted in a spirit of prayer and reflection, without nominations or campaigning.

Also see

• Bahá'u'lláh
• Bahá'í Faith
• Báb
• Bahá'í calendar
• Bahá'í administration