How to Become Baha'i

The Baha'i faith, founded in 19th century Persia by Baha'u'llah, is a mystical tradition that embraces many of the beliefs and religious personalities of the world's major religions: Islam, Judaism, Christianity and Buddhism. The process of becoming Baha'i is simple and can be initiated quickly.

Difficulty:

Moderate

Instructions

1. Explore the faith. Visiting a local Baha'i center or finding people you know to discuss the faith is an important first step in converting since the conversion process demands that a potential convert declare a deep desire to be a Baha'i.

2. Find the national Baha'i center of your country or locality. Baha'i practices differ slightly from country to country so it is important to be in touch with your local Baha'i authority to learn how to convert. You can contact the American Baha'i center through their website, Bahai.us.

3. Request a declaration card. The most important step in converting to Baha'i is filling out an official card that states your personal details and attests to your devotion to the faith. You can request a card from your national Baha'i center.

4. Fill out the relevant details and information, sign the card and return it to the Baha'i assembly which sent it to you. Remember that once you have filled out the card and sworn your devotion to the religion you are considered to be a member of the Baha'i faith. While the process might seem simple, it has important consequences regarding your religious status.

5. Stay in touch with the Baha'i assembly to ensure your information was processed and approved. After you receive notice of approval, becoming more involved with Baha'i ideas and communities will help you integrate into the religion.

Resources

• Start the conversion process at Baha'i International.