Expert: Suzanne Gerstner - 7/3/2008

Question
Dear Suzanne,

I would like to tell you something about myself, and then I will ask a question.

I am Jewish, and a member of a local synagogue which I attend regularly. I am also a great admirer of the Baha'i Faith. I attend a monthly gathering at the home of a local Baha'i family, and I have made friends with several local Bahai's. I have not studied the Baha'i scriptures, but I think what matters is results, and I like the results I see among Baha'is. I have even gone so far as to suggest to friends who are seeking a religious home that they look into the Baha'i Faith. I feel that I can serve the same ideals and spirituality through Judaism, and I also want to remain true to my Jewish identity. [And I take part in political activism, which I know is forbidden to Baha'is.]

I hae also made a practice, for many years, of visiting the services of many different religious groups, getting to know their adherents, and when possible facilitating interfaith fellowship. I've visited with everyone from Mormons to Sikhs, and eeryone in between, and from this I can personally attest to the essential oneness of all religion. Some of my Baha'i friends have attended my Jewish service.

Here's my question: some web sites I've read claim that the administration of the Baha'i faith has taken on an authoritarian character, and suppresses dissent and suggestions for change. Much of this comes from former Baha'is who considered themselves loyal to the Faith, but were disfellowshiped when they made what they considered reasonable proposals. I'm not sure if I should give web addresses here -- you can find them through Google -- but among the names associated with this are Juan Cole, Frederick Glaysher, Karen Bacquet, and many others. There was also a Baha'i study group in [I think] Los Angeles which was disbanded by the Baha'i administration because their discussion went into forbidden areas. I can give you more information if you want.

What these people wrote sounded legitimate to me, but then I have no idea if there's anything to it. Are you familiar with what I am referring to? Could you tell me more about this question, and what your opinion is on the matter? Frankly I haven't asked my Baha'i friends, since our gatherings are in a spirit of warm congeniality, and I didn't want to raise what I'm sure is a highly contentious issue.

Thank you very much for being available to answer questions. All best wishes to you.

-- David

Answer
Dear David,

This is a very big subject for a little answer box like this, since background information needs to be given in order to understand the subject in it's proper context.  

Here is a link to a letter written by a Baha'i academic some time ago asking questions like the one you asked, and the response by the Universal House of Justice:

http://bahai-library.com/uhj/scholars.internet.html

I think it's interesting to note that this academic, Dr. Susan Maneck, came to understand the point of view of the Universal House of Justice, and to notice that there actually was an attempt to undermine the Institutions of the Faith. She distanced herself from this group.

I hope this helps.

Best wishes,

Suzanne