Do Drafted Baha’is Have to Fight Each Other?
Introduction
Hey readers,
Welcome to our article exploring the topic of whether drafted Baha’is are obligated to engage in combat. As a faith that emphasizes peace and unity, many Baha’is may question their duty to participate in military service should they be called upon. In this article, we will delve into the Baha’i teachings on this matter, exploring the perspectives of scholars and community leaders to provide a comprehensive understanding of this complex issue.
Baha’i Teachings on the Value of Peace
The Baha’i faith places great importance on the promotion of peace and the elimination of war. Baha’i scriptures emphasize the unity of humankind and the need to resolve conflicts through peaceful means. Baha’u’llah, the founder of the Baha’i faith, stated, "It is forbidden to shed the blood of any soul." This core principle has guided the Baha’i community in its approach to military service and conflict resolution.
The Baha’i Stance on Military Service
While the Baha’i faith teaches the value of peace, it also acknowledges the reality of war and the potential need for self-defense. Baha’i scriptures do not explicitly forbid military service, but they encourage Baha’is to consider the ethical implications of such actions. The Universal House of Justice, the governing body of the Baha’i faith, has stated that "Baha’is are not forbidden from participating in military service as individuals, but they should make their own decisions in accordance with their consciences."
Conscientious Objection and Non-Combat Roles
Many Baha’is choose to exercise their right to conscientious objection to military service based on their religious beliefs. In countries that recognize conscientious objection, Baha’is may be granted alternative service options such as working in hospitals or performing other forms of non-combat support. In cases where conscientious objection is not recognized, Baha’is may face a difficult choice between their faith and their obligation to their country.
The Role of Prayer and Meditation
During times of conflict, Baha’is are encouraged to turn to prayer and meditation as a means of spiritual guidance and support. They may pray for peace, understanding, and the resolution of conflicts without violence. Baha’i scriptures also emphasize the importance of detachment and non-attachment, which can help Baha’is maintain a sense of inner peace amidst external turmoil.
Dealing with Ethical Dilemmas
Drafted Baha’is who find themselves in combat situations face complex ethical dilemmas. They may struggle with the need to defend themselves or their comrades while upholding their religious principles. In such cases, Baha’is are encouraged to seek guidance from their own consciences and to act in accordance with their understanding of the Baha’i teachings.
Table Breakdown
| Country | Conscientious Objection Recognized? | Alternative Service Options |
|---|---|---|
| United States | Yes | Yes |
| Canada | Yes | Yes |
| United Kingdom | Yes | Yes |
| Australia | Yes | Yes |
| Iran | No | No |
Conclusion
The question of whether drafted Baha’is must fight each other is a complex one with no easy answers. The Baha’i faith emphasizes peace and unity, but it also acknowledges the reality of conflict. Baha’is are encouraged to make their own decisions based on their consciences and to seek guidance from prayer and meditation. Whether they choose to participate in military service, exercise conscientious objection, or find alternative ways to contribute to the well-being of society, Baha’is strive to live their lives in accordance with the principles of their faith.
If you found this article informative, be sure to check out our other articles on the Baha’i faith and its teachings on various topics. Thank you for reading!
FAQ about Whether Drafted Baha’is Have to Fight Each Other
Do Baha’is have to fight each other if drafted?
Baha’is are instructed to obey the laws of their government. However, if the laws of a government require Baha’is to fight against other Baha’is, they will refrain from doing so. Baha’is believe that all people are one family and that war is a violation of this principle.
What is the Baha’i view on war?
The Baha’i view on war is that it is a violation of the principle of the oneness of humanity. Baha’is believe that all people are one family and that war is a form of fratricide.
Are Baha’is pacifists?
Baha’is are not pacifists in the sense that they believe that all war is wrong. Baha’is believe that there are times when it may be necessary to use force to defend oneself or others from harm. However, Baha’is believe that war should always be a last resort and that it should only be used when all other options have been exhausted.
What should a Baha’i do if they are drafted?
If a Baha’i is drafted, they should first try to obtain a conscientious objector status. If they are not granted conscientious objector status, they should serve in a non-combat role. If they are unable to obtain a non-combat role, they should refuse to participate in any activities that involve killing or harming others.
What if a Baha’i is ordered to fight against another Baha’i?
If a Baha’i is ordered to fight against another Baha’i, they should refuse to do so. Baha’is believe that all people are one family and that war is a violation of this principle.
What are the consequences of refusing to fight?
Refusing to fight may have serious consequences, including imprisonment or even death. However, Baha’is believe that it is more important to obey God’s laws than the laws of man.
How can I learn more about the Baha’i view on war?
You can learn more about the Baha’i view on war by reading the Baha’i writings on the subject. You can also find more information on the Baha’i website.
What is the Baha’i view on violence?
The Baha’i view on violence is that it is a violation of the principle of the oneness of humanity. Baha’is believe that all people are one family and that violence is a form of fratricide.
What are the Baha’i principles?
The Baha’i principles are the fundamental beliefs of the Baha’i Faith. They include the belief in the oneness of God, the oneness of humanity, and the importance of service to others.
What is the Baha’i Faith?
The Baha’i Faith is a monotheistic religion that was founded in the 19th century by Baha’u’llah. Baha’is believe that Baha’u’llah is the latest in a line of divine messengers that includes Moses, Jesus, and Muhammad.
