The Bahai Revelation by Thornton Chase is an insightful and thought-provoking exploration of the Bahai faith. Chase delves into the history and teachings of the religion, providing readers with a comprehensive overview of its core beliefs and practices.
One of the strengths of the book is Chase's ability to clearly explain complex concepts in a way that is easily understandable to readers. He seamlessly weaves together historical and theological information, creating a compelling narrative that keeps readers engaged from start to finish.
In addition to providing a clear overview of the Bahai faith, Chase also offers his own personal reflections and insights throughout the book. This adds a personal touch to the text, making it feel more authentic and relatable to readers.
Overall, The Bahai Revelation is a valuable resource for anyone interested in learning more about the Bahai faith. Chase's thorough research and engaging writing style make this book a must-read for those looking to deepen their understanding of this fascinating religion.
Book Description:
Thornton Chase (1847 – 1912) is commonly recognized as the first convert to the Bahá’í Faith of Occidental background. During his life he organized many Bahá’í activities in Chicago and Los Angeles and was considered a prominent Bahá’í. In 1894, Chase met Ibrahim Kheiralla, a Bahá’í from Beirut who had recently come to the United States. Chase and a small group of Chicagoans began to study the Bahá’í Faith with him. By 1895 he had completed the class and become a Bahá’í. In 1907 Chase was able to go on pilgrimage. Though Chase was able to be with ‘Abdu’l-Bahá in Akka for only three days, the experience transformed him. ‘Abdu’l-Bahá, highly impressed by Chase’s qualities, conferred on him the title Thábit, “steadfast”. On returning home, Chase wrote an account of his pilgrimage, which was published under the title In Galilee in 1908. The short work gives a detailed and poignant description of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá’s home and family in Akka, as well as a moving description of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá himself. Chase then turned his thoughts to an introductory book on the Bahá’í Faith. Published as The Bahai Revelation in 1909, this work was one of the most comprehensive and accurate introductions to the Bahá’í Faith written by an early American Bahá’í. It continued to be reprinted until the 1920s. The work emphasized the Bahá’í Faith and its teachings as a vehicle for personal spiritual transformation. Shoghi Effendi, the Guardian of the Bahá’í Faith, later honoured him as one of the Disciples of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá (also termed “Heralds of the Covenant”).