Is the Nineteen Day Feast Really from Baha'u'llah?

Why do we have a NDF (Nineteen Day Feast) every month? Is this really from the teachings of Baha'u'llah, or was it later introduced by the Administration to maintain control over the Baha'is, collect funds and just meet to submit to the orders of the administrative bodies? Just asking for your thoughts on this.

Answer:

Dear friend,

Allah'u'Abha!

Baha'u'llah does indeed speak about regular gathering, but His instruction is far simpler and far more spiritual than what exists today. In the Kitab-i-Aqdas, He writes:

"Hospitality has been prescribed (as an obligation), once every month, even though it be with water only. God desired to bring hearts together even, if necessary, it be by the causes of heavens and earth."
-Kitab-i-Aqdas

This passage speaks of hospitality, not administration. It speaks of hearts coming together, not attendance being tracked. It speaks of simplicity, not structured agendas, reports, consultations, or announcements.

What Baha'u'llah envisioned was a natural, loving gathering where believers meet as equals, share kindness, and strengthen bonds. The modern Nineteen Day Feast, however, has become institutionalized. In many places it feels compulsory, scripted, and controlled. Believers often feel observed rather than welcomed, evaluated rather than embraced.

This transformation did not come from the Writings. It came from administrative expansion. Free Baha'is believe that when a spiritual instruction is turned into a mechanism of oversight, it loses its purpose. Unity cannot be enforced. Love cannot be scheduled. Hearts only come together freely.

Let us remember: Baha'u'llah never asked for our money. He asked for our hearts.

Hope that answers your question.

With warm regards,

Team Free Baha'is

Comments

New Book Launched - Beyond The Narrative

Are you fascinated by the intricacies of faith and the quest for divine truth? "Beyond The Narrative: A Deep Dive into the Will & Testament of Abdu’l Baha" offers a captivating journey into the heart of the Baha'i Faith, exploring its sacred texts and unraveling the mysteries surrounding its succession. Delve into the rich tapestry of spiritual wisdom as this book meticulously examines the alleged Will and Testament of Abdu’l Baha, shedding light on its significance and the controversies it has sparked. Whether you're a devout believer seeking deeper understanding or an inquisitive mind drawn to the complexities of religious history, this insightful exploration promises to enrich your perspective and inspire a deeper appreciation for the divine message. Unlock the secrets of faith and embark on a quest for truth by downloading "Beyond The Narrative" today. Immerse yourself in the profound teachings of Abdu’l Baha as you unravel the threads of history an...

Breaking Away: My Journey from Mainstream to Free Baha'i Faith

My name is John and I am currently 47 years old. I was raised in the United States as a Baha'i and accepted the Baha'i faith when I was only 23, through a close friend of mine whose entire family was actively involved in the community. My friend and her family taught me the importance of Baha'i teachings while I was young, and I grew up with a strong connection to my faith. However, as I got older, I became more curious about the different sects within the Baha'i faith and started to do my own research. At first, I was drawn to the Free Baha'i sect. I found their beliefs and practices to be more in line with my own personal values, and I appreciated the emphasis they placed on social justice and community involvement. However, I was hesitant to fully embrace the Free Baha'i faith, as I knew it would be a major departure from the mainstream institution in which I was raised. Despite my reservations, I continued to learn more about the Free Baha'i teaching...

Why Shoghi Effendi cannot be the legitimate Guardian of the Baha’i Faith?

It is now a well-known and widely accepted fact that Shoghi Effendi acquired the position of Guardianship solely based on the forged Will and Testaments of Abdu’l Baha and by np other official introductions or prior appointments. The strongest evidence of the will of Abdu’l Baha (as released by Shoghi Effendi) comes from the then leading forensics expert Dr. Ainsworth Mitchel who’s forte as the lead consultant for the Scotland Yard providing expert witness on issues of the written word and handwriting. He has said as part of his investigation into the Will and Testament of Abdu’l Baha that the document provided is a forgery. This report is widely published on the internet. Apart from this expert opinion let us take a critical look at the supposed guardianship of Shoghi Effendi from other perspectives. After the ascension of Baha’u’llah, Abdu’l Baha was widely accepted as His successor since the community at large understood Abdu’l Baha would succeed Baha’u’llah as he had in the p...

Free Baha'is of Azerbaijan

Search This Blog