Ridván, The King of Festivals of the Bahá’í Faith
Bahá’í communities around the world are preparing to celebrate Ridván, the holiest festival in the Bahá’í calendar, also known as the “King of Festivals.” This celebration extends from late April to early May. The twelve-day period commemorates the historic event of 1863, when Bahá’u’lláh, the Prophet-Founder of the Bahá’í Faith, declared His mission as a Messenger of God for a new era while staying in a garden on the banks of the Tigris River in Baghdad, Iraq. The word Ridván, meaning “paradise,” refers to that garden where Bahá’u’lláh revealed the fundamental spiritual principles of this new faith, centered on unity, peace, and the oneness of humanity.
The context of Bahá’u’lláh’s Declaration was one of persecution and upheaval. Following the martyrdom of the Báb and the suppression of His followers, Bahá’u’lláh was exiled to Baghdad, where He spent ten years revitalizing a disheartened community. As His influence grew, the Persian government, alarmed, urged the Ottoman Empire to send Him into further exile. The first, ninth, and twelfth days of Ridván hold special significance.
The first day celebrates Bahá’u’lláh’s Declaration as a Manifestation of God and the revelation of His spiritual teachings: He condemned religious wars, declared that no other Manifestation of God would appear for at least a thousand years, and affirmed that all the names of God are fully reflected in all things. The ninth day marks the arrival of His family, who crossed the Tigris River to join Him in the garden — a reunion symbolizing unity and love. The twelfth day commemorates His departure and exile to Constantinople, the beginning of a journey marked by trials, but also by the growth and spread of His teachings.
Ridván celebrations also hold administrative importance for the Bahá’í community. On the first day, Bahá’ís elect their Local Spiritual Assemblies through a unique process — without campaigning or nominations — emphasizing humility and service. National Conventions, held in more than 180 countries and territories, lead to the election of the National Spiritual Assemblies. Each year, the Universal House of Justice — the international governing council of the Bahá’í Faith — issues a Ridván message to the worldwide community, offering guidance and reflection.
Observed with joy and reverence, Ridván remains a time of celebration and meditation for Bahá’ís — a moment to reaffirm their commitment to the principles of the Faith and to strengthen community bonds and collective action.
The Office of External Affairs of the Bahá´ís of Mauritius
