Abstract

This chapter describes the significance of the Universal House of Justice for the development of the Bahá’í community as well as for the well-being of humanity as a whole. To understand the singular role of this global institution, the chapter first provides an overview of the covenant that Bahá’u’lláh made with His followers and the essential place of the House of Justice within this covenant. The chapter then discusses how the House of Justice was first established in 1963 and the manner in which it is regularly elected. Finally, it considers the unique station of the House of Justice as well as the powers and duties it exercises in guiding the Bahá’ís around the world in their efforts to apply the teachings of Bahá’u’lláh and promote the unity of humankind. Particular emphasis is placed on its mandate to preserve the sacred text, facilitate growth, and enact legislation.