Mashríq-ul-Adhkár is a symbol of the teachings of the Baháʼí Faith, it embodies the oneness of God, the oneness of the Divine Messengers and the oneness of humanity. It stands as a universal place of worship open to all the inhabitants of a locality irrespective of their religious affiliation, background, ethnicity or gender and provides a haven for the personal spiritual contemplation of worshipers. There are no sermons or speeches. It is free from rituals and ceremonies, and only the Sacred Writings from the world’s religions are read.
O people of the world! Build ye houses of worship through-out the lands in the name of Him Who is the Lord of all religions. Make them as perfect as is possible in the world of being, … Then with radiance and joy, celebrate therein the praise of your Lord, the Most Compassionate. Verily, by His remembrance the eye is cheered and the heart is filled with light.
The building of the House of Worship embodies the true interaction between worship and service. They always include essential surrounding facilities devoted to social, human, cultural and scientific progress of humanity as well as providing healthcare and economic development, shelter, assistance and care for the needy. These facilities that include; hospital, school, gathering hall, etc. embody the highest example of social progress and spiritual upliftment. The facilities are established according to the needs of the local community in a natural manner.
The Mashriqu’l-Adhkár are also centers for social discourse for the surrounding community, they are places where the people of the neighborhood or city can gather together to consult regarding the needs, challenges and learnings of their community. They are also places where discourses on the national level may be held and so, contribute to promoting values such as; living together in harmony, peace and the unity of mankind. The dependencies such as; hospital, school, guest house and others exemplify the noble values required for social and spiritual advancement. The dependent buildings arise naturally and organically over time and according to the needs of the community that the House of Worship is established in.
