Here are some of the basic beliefs of the Baha'i faith, as taken from its Web site, www.bahai.org:

Central theme: Unifying humanity as a single race in one global society.

Purpose of life: To develop the spiritual and moral qualities that lie at the core of human nature.

God and prophets: There is only one God, the Creator of the universe. God has revealed himself to humanity through a series of divine messengers, each of whom has founded a great religion. This succession of divine teachers reflects a historic "plan of God" to cultivate the spiritual, intellectual, and moral capacities of the race.

Basic principles: Abandonment of all forms of prejudice; assurance to women of full equality of opportunity with men; recognition of the unity and relativity of religious truth; the elimination of extremes of poverty and wealth; the realization of universal education; individual responsibility to search for truth; establishment of a global commonwealth of nations; and recognition that true religion is in harmony with reason and the pursuit of scientific knowledge.

Baha'i way of life: Encourages personal development through daily prayer, meditation and breaking down traditional prejudices. Alcohol and narcotic drugs are used only for medical reasons.

Number of members: Five million members residing in 189 independent countries and 46 territories.

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Clergy: None. Individual are to explore the revelations of God and decide issues of life through prayer, reflection and consultation with others.

Finances: The faith is supported through voluntary contributions from members. Member giving to the Baha'i fund is considered a privilege. Outside contributions are not accepted.

House of worship: Although architectural styles differ, the nine sides and central dome are common to all and symbolize the diversity of the human race and its essential oneness. Devotional programs consist of prayers, meditations and the reading of selections from the sacred scriptures of the Baha'i faith and other world religions. Music is provided by unaccompanied choirs.

Family life/marriage: Baha'is see the family as the basic unit of society. Monogamous marriage stands at the foundation of family life. Married couples should strive to become "loving companions and comrades and at one with each other for time and eternity . . . ." Marriage. Parent approval of spouse is required, although marriages are not arranged. Individuals propose marriage to the persons of their own choice. At marriage ceremonies, with two witnesses designated by the local Baha'i governing council present, the couple recite the following verse: "We will all, verily, abide by the will of God." Divorce is allowed but discouraged. The purpose of marriage — beyond physical, intellectual and spiritual companionship — is children.

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