Expert: Suzanne Gerstner - 10/3/2009

Question
I am interested in the Baha'i faith. I love the world view and tolerance. However, I know I don't agree with all of the teachings. For example, I believe animals have eternal souls, just as we do. And I believe gay people are born gay and there's nothing wrong with them. Holding these beliefs, could I still be a Baha'i?

Answer
Yes, you can become a Baha'i if you hold opinions which are not taught in the Baha'i Writings.  We all do to begin with since we've all been raised in a non-Baha'i world. But eventually, when we study and reflect on the the Writings of the Central Figures of the Faith, and become convinced of the truth of their teachings, then little by little, we come to align our thinking with what they taught.  

The examples you gave are things which nobody can prove one way or the other. The important thing, as a Baha'i, is to love and be kind to everyone; to free oneself of all prejudices and see everyone as a friend.  As 'Abdu'l-Baha said:  "...let your heart burn with loving kindness for all who may cross your path."  This is all inclusive.  Also, we're supposed to be infinitely kind to animals. Whether or not they will continue eternally is not going to change according to how we think about it, so in a sense, it really doesn't matter.  It's in the Hands of God.

Best wishes,

Suzanne