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A 19th-century Ottoman coffeehouse.

Return to Baghdad

In 1856 Bahá’u’lláh rejoined His family and the other Bábís in Baghdad. Under His renewed leadership, the stature of the Bábí community grew and His reputation as a spiritual leader spread throughout the region.

Bahá’u’lláh wrote some of His most renowned works in Baghdad, including the "Hidden Words," "Seven Valleys," and the "Book of Certitude" (Kitab-i-Iqan). His writings alluded to His station, but it was still not the time for a public announcement.

Coffeehouses in Baghdad provided places for theological and philosophical debate and inquiry. Bahá’u’lláh frequented such coffeehouses, and the refinement of His exposition and the beauty of His language attracted many people.

Photo 4 of 5: A 19th-century Ottoman coffeehouse.
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The official website of the worldwide Bahá’í community.
Bahá’í Reference Library
A website containing authoritative writings and guidance of Bahá’u’lláh, the Báb, ‘Abdu’l-Bahá, Shoghi Effendi and the Universal House of Justice, as well as other Bahá’í texts.
The Universal House of Justice
An official website of the Bahá’í Faith that provides information about the Universal House of Justice and makes available selected statements and letters which have been written by it or prepared under its supervision.
Bicentenary of the Birth of Bahá’u’lláh
The official international website for the bicentenary of the birth of Bahá’u’lláh, the founder of the Bahá’í Faith, showing glimpses of the world-wide celebrations of this historic event.
A Widening Embrace
A documentary film about the community-building efforts of the Baha’i world.

National Bahá’í Communities
A page containing links to the websites of many national Bahá’í communities from around the world.
Light to the World
A feature film about the life and teachings of Bahá’u’lláh.
Frontiers of Learning
This film captures the insights and experiences of people from four communities across the world whose efforts to build vibrant communities are at the frontiers of learning.
Arising to Serve
A film recounting highlights of the 41 regional Bahá’í conferences called by the Universal House of Justice in 2008.
Attaining the Dynamics of Growth
A selection of photographs of Bahá’í community life from around the world.

Bahá’í World News Service
The official news website of the worldwide Bahá’í community.
Bahá’í Media Bank
Photographs available for downloading.
Bahá’í International Community United Nations Office
The official website of the Bahá’í International Community’s Office at the United Nations. The site contains news and information about recent activity and provides access to BIC statements, reports, and other publications.
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A 19th-century Ottoman coffeehouse.
A 19th-century Ottoman coffeehouse. (Engraving, c. 1800's)