Abstract

This chapter describes the Bahá’í Faith’s concept of the equality of the sexes and the gradual implementation of this vital principle in Bahá’í communities across the globe over the last century. It is noted that Bahá’í sacred and authoritative texts—in particular, the works and recorded public addresses of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá—offer, in the history of religion, an unprecedented number of statements addressing gender equality, linking the advancement of women to human prosperity, the abolition of war, and the achievement of peace. The chapter briefly describes historical barriers to gender equality, and it is argued that assumptions and patterns of practice have been challenged and corrected by the teachings on the equality of women and men found within the revelation of Bahá’u’lláh. The chapter explores requisites and Bahá’í approaches to gender equality, gender equality and family life, Bahá’í laws and gender equality, and gender equality in public life and Bahá’í administration.