From Persecution to Coexistence: The Bahāʾísm in Iran and Bangladesh

Abstract

The Bahāʾísm, emerging from 19th-century Persia through the teachings of Bahāʾuʾllāh, has developed into a globally recognized faith known for its emphasis on unity, peace, and progressive revelation. This paper traces the historical trajectory of the Bahāʾísm from its origins in Persia (modern day Iran) to its establishment in Bangladesh, focusing on both the shared and divergent experiences of its adherents in different cultural contexts. The study addresses the significant challenges Bahāʾís face, particularly the severe persecution in Iran due to theological conflicts with mainstream Islam, contrasted with their relatively accepted status in Bangladesh, a secular Muslim majority country. Drawing on qualitative research conducted at the Rajshahi Bahāʾī Center, Bangladesh, this paper highlights the personal narratives of Bahāʾí converts, their devotional practices, and the obstacles they encounter in maintaining their religious identity. The analysis extends to a comparison with Aḥmadiyya, another religious movement with Islamic roots, to elucidate theological distinctions and the varying degrees of societal acceptance. While the Bahāʾí Faith and Aḥmadiyya both emerged in the 19th century and share a backdrop of Islamic influence, the Bahāʾí emphasis on universal equality and an independent identity sets them apart. This paper argues that such distinctions, coupled with Bangladesh’s secular policies, have allowed Bahāʾís to practice their faith with fewer constraints compared to their coreligionists in Iran. By examining these interfaith dynamics, the study contributes to a deeper understanding of religious pluralism, the complex interactions between minority religious communities and their broader social environments, and the implications for religious tolerance and coexistence in contemporary Muslim societies.