Bahá'í Library Online
. . . .
.
>>   Published Articles
TAGS: Interfaith dialogue; Progressive revelation
> add tags
Abstract:
The importance of doctrine and systematic theology in understanding the Baha' Faith, and the process of "doctrinalization" in Bahá'í history.
Notes:
Presented at the Irfan Colloquia Session #22, London, England (August 27-29, 1999).

Mirrored with permission from irfancolloquia.org/22/lundberg_progressive.


The Bedrock of Bahá'í Belief:
The Doctrine of Progressive Revelation

by Zaid Lundberg

published in Lights of Irfan, Book 1, pages 53-68
Wilmette, IL: Irfan Colloquia, 2000
Abstract: This paper is to introduce the doctrinal dimension of religious studies, investigate the term "progressive revelation," analyze whether progressive revelation is a central Bahá'í doctrine, and survey the process of "doctrinalization" in Bahá'í history.

According to Ninian Smart, the doctrinal dimension is (together with the experiential, mythic, ethical, ritual, and social) a major dimension of any religion. Thus, it is arguably true that doctrinal studies (usually known as "systematic theology," or "dogmatism") are crucial for understanding and developing a Bahá'í theology. Compared to the other world religions, the Bahá'í Faith has, on the one hand, very meager mythical and ritual dimensions, but on the other hand, it has quite elaborate doctrinal, ethical, and social dimensions.

If PDF does not display below, click here to download.
Back to:   Published Articles
Home Site Map Forum Links Copyright About Contact
.
. .