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Know thou that every ear which hearkeneth unto His Words with true faith shall be immune from the fire. Thus the believer, through his recognition of Him will appreciate the transcendent character of His heavenly Words, will wholeheartedly choose Him over… More
The balmy weather is coming, and the voyager shall land safely. “I am walking in my chosen highway; I know the destination. Hundreds of storms and tempests may rage furiously around my head; hundreds of… More
Newbury Bahá’í community and friends from different regions gathered to celebrate Naw-Rúz with hope, joy, dance, and laughter. Though our hearts are heavy for what is happening around the globe, marked by war, suffering, conflict,… More
Beloved friends, as Naw-Rúz begins, may your hearts be renewed with light and your souls refreshed with love. May this new year bring unity and peace.
Nawruz, meaning “new day,” is an ancient festival marking the arrival of spring and the renewal of nature. Celebrated for over 3,000 years across parts of Central Asia, the Middle East, and beyond, it symbolizes rebirth, hope, and the triumph of light over darkness. In the context of the Bahá’í Faith, Nawruz holds a distinct and deeply spiritual significance.
For Bahá’ís, Nawruz is both a joyful celebration and a holy day that marks the end of the Nineteen-Day Fast. This fast, observed from March 2 to March 20, is a period of spiritual reflection, prayer, and self-discipline. Nawruz, which falls on the vernal equinox (around March 21), represents not only physical renewal in nature but also spiritual rejuvenation for individuals and communities.
The day is often celebrated with gatherings, prayers, and festive meals, bringing families and communities together. While its cultural expressions may vary across regions, the underlying theme remains consistent: renewal of the soul and a fresh beginning. In Bahá’í teachings, this renewal is tied to the idea of progressive revelation, the belief that humanity continually evolves spiritually over time.
Nawruz in the Bahá’í Faith therefore transcends its historical roots as a seasonal festival. It becomes a moment of unity, reflection, and recommitment to spiritual growth. As hearts are refreshed and spirits renewed, it invites the friends to look forward with confidence and joy. It is our hope that this Nawruz may usher in greater harmony among peoples, inspire acts of compassion and service, and contribute to the advancement, prosperity, and unity of all humankind.
There are two kinds of fast: material and spiritual. The material fast consists in abstaining from food and drink, that is, refraining from satisfying the physical appetites. But the true and spiritual fast is for man to forsake covetous desires, heedlessness, and evil and animalistic attributes. The material fast is therefore a symbol of that spiritual fast. It is like saying: “O Divine Providence! As I am abstaining from bodily desires and from all occupation with food and drink, even so purify and sanctify my heart from the love of anyone save Thyself, and shield and protect my soul from corrupt inclinations and satanic qualities, that my spirit may commune with the breaths of holiness and fast from the mention of all else besides Thee.”
‘Abdu’l‑Bahá, Twelve Table Talks Given by ‘Abdu’l‑Bahá in ‘Akká.
Thames Valley Bahá’í Community 