Bahai

The Bahai faith originated in the mid-19th century in the area of present-day Iran. It is based on the belief that the man born as Mirza Husayn Ali in 1817 was the prophet sent by God to the present age. He is now known as Bahaullah—“the Glory of God.”

Bahais believe that there have been revelations from God appropriate to each era, including the Torah, the New Testament, the Koran, and the words of the Buddha and the Hindu god Krishna. Bahais maintain that these revelations have been superseded, although not contradicted, by the writings of Bahaullah and his successor Abdul Baha. These writings form the main body of Bahai scripture.

Bahais believe that humanity is constantly evolving and growing more adult in its understanding and behavior, and thus gradually becoming capable of forming one world rather than diverse nations, races, and religions. Bahais also believe in One God, creator of all, and that humanity is a special creation, essentially good.

The Bahai teachings stress economic justice, equal rights, and education for all, and the breaking down of traditional barriers of race, class, and creed. These are seen as flaws that will disappear as the Bahai faith becomes universal.

The Bahai international headquarters is in Haifa, Israel, and includes an International House of Justice in preparation for the time when there will be one world government, guided by the Bahai faith. The Bahai community meet in local spiritual assemblies whose structure is democratic and participatory, intended as a model for universal government.

There are 5 million Bahais worldwide in more than 175 countries, with the largest concentrations in the United States (approximately 300,000) and Africa (approximately 1 million). The claim that the Bahai sacred texts are the successor to the Koran has led to criticism of Bahais in many Muslim lands, including Iran, where the faith began, and most Bahais today are not from Iran.

http://www.ajmalbeig.addr.com/islam/religions.htm#Buddhism