Baha’i

Of Persian origin, the faith, rooted in Babism, is a Muslim denomination but a separate religion
Founded by Baha’u’llah (Glory of God) 1817-1892 regarded as a messenger of God
Teachings centre on unity of mankind, harmony of religion and science, equality of men and women, abolition of prejudice and universal peace
No set doctrines, priesthood, formal public ritual or authoritative scriptures
No clergy, however, a patient may wish to have a visitor from the Spiritual Assembly of Baha’i
Believe in power of prayer
21st March is their New Year. The patient may wish to be at home to celebrate Nawruz (New Year)

No unusual requirements for a Baha’i patient in hospital
Accept usual routines and treatment
Diverse backgrounds – may need an interpreter
No objection to orthodox medical practices, regarded as different aspects of ‘God given’ healing process
Exhorted by faith to trust and to follow the recommendations of doctors
Unlikely to be any objection to blood transfusion
Termination of pregnancy permitted only where strong medical grounds such as risk to life & health of mother
Contraceptive practice left to conscience, but intrauterine device often not used as regarded as abortifacient by many

Period of fasting observed each year
Patient may wish to fast, therefore food should be available before dawn and after dusk.
Special fasting from 2nd-21st March.
Those suffering chronic ill health, children, elderly, expectant and nursing mothers exempt from fasting
Abstinence from alcohol (including in cooking) / habit forming drugs but permitted if part of treatment.

Narcotics permitted if for pain relief
Belief in after life – not reincarnation
Patients may wish for members from the Spiritual Assembly of the Baha’i to come and pray with them, this may be arranged by the family. Privacy is required for this
Treat the body with great respect after death
Routine last offices acceptable
Body is carefully washed and wrapped in white silk or cotton by (or observed by) family members
A special ring will be placed on the finger of the patient, this is not to be removed
Baha’i adherents may not be cremated or embalmed, nor may they be buried more than an hour’s journey from the place of death
No objections to organ transplants – regarded as praiseworthy.
No objection to post mortem on religious grounds.