On October 7, 2022, a 22-year-old Black woman in Excelsior Springs, Missouri, “escaped from a white man who she says held her captive in his basement for nearly a month, whipping, torturing, and raping her repeatedly,” as reported in Democracy Now!’s global news report.

She and the other Black women who she said were sexually abused or killed by him represent the tens of thousands of Black women and girls who go missing every year in the United States. 

RELATED: Are Black Women Invisible?

In East Africa, every 36 seconds, one person is likely to die of hunger between now and the end of the year, according to a recent report by Oxfam International. They represent the 829 million people who are undernourished around the world, as of 2015.

RELATED: 7 Powerful Prayers for Help From God

About 1.6 billion people in the world may lack adequate housing. And, with the danger of Russia deploying nuclear weapons in its war against Ukraine, President Joe Biden warned that “the world is at risk of a nuclear ‘Armageddon,’” as reported by AP News.

RELATED: 6 Powerful Prayers for Safety and Protection

Humanity is suffering across the planet. In a letter written by the Universal House of Justice, the global governing body of the Baha’i Faith, in November 2020, they wrote:

There is a mounting realization on the part of the world’s people that the decades ahead are set to bring with them challenges among the most daunting that the human family has ever had to face.

We need healing, justice, equity, aid, love, unity, and peace. May these Baha’i prayers for humanity inspire your pursuits to better this world and fuel your efforts to work toward a brighter future.

1. A Baha’i Prayer for Uniting Humanity

Can you imagine how much justice we would have if humanity was so united that our hearts were connected by God’s indissoluble bond? Then we all would feel pain whenever we witness segments of our human family that are hurt and suffering. Our hearts would beat as one.

This prayer that Abdu’l-Baha, one of the central figures of the Baha’i Faith, revealed asks God to unify humanity, giving “light to our eyes, hearing to our ears, and understanding and love to our hearts”:

O Thou compassionate Lord, Thou Who art generous and able! We are servants of Thine sheltered beneath Thy providence. Cast Thy glance of favor upon us. Give light to our eyes, hearing to our ears, and understanding and love to our hearts. Render our souls joyous and happy through Thy glad tidings. 

O Lord! Point out to us the pathway of Thy kingdom and resuscitate all of us through the breaths of the Holy Spirit. Bestow upon us life everlasting and confer upon us never-ending honor. Unify mankind and illumine the world of humanity. May we all follow Thy pathway, long for Thy good pleasure and seek the mysteries of Thy kingdom. 

O God! Unite us and connect our hearts with Thy indissoluble bond.  Verily, Thou art the Giver, Thou art the Kind One and Thou art the Almighty.

2. A Baha’i Prayer for Mercy for Humanity

In this prayer that Baha’u’llah, the prophet and founder of the Baha’i Faith, revealed, we entreat God to bestow His mercy and grace on humanity:

My God, Whom I worship and adore!  I bear witness unto Thy unity and Thy oneness, and acknowledge Thy gifts, both in the past and in the present. Thou art the All-Bountiful, the overflowing showers of Whose mercy have rained down upon high and low alike, and the splendors of Whose grace have been shed over both the obedient and the rebellious. 

O God of mercy, before Whose door the quintessence of mercy hath bowed down, and round the sanctuary of Whose Cause loving-kindness, in its inmost spirit, hath circled, we beseech Thee, entreating Thine ancient grace, and seeking Thy present favor, that Thou mayest have mercy upon all who are the manifestations of the world of being, and deny them not the outpourings of Thy grace in Thy days.

All are but poor and needy, and Thou, verily, art the All-Possessing, the All-Subduing, the All-Powerful.

3. A Baha’i Prayer for the Advancement of Humanity

In this prayer that Abdu’l-Baha revealed, we ask God to help humanity progress and acquire knowledge that is pertinent to our physical and spiritual reality:

O God, O Thou Who hast cast Thy splendor over the luminous realities of men, shedding upon them the resplendent lights of knowledge and guidance, and hast chosen them out of all created things for this supernal grace, and hast caused them to encompass all things, to understand their inmost essence, and to disclose their mysteries, bringing them forth out of darkness into the visible world! ‘He verily showeth His special mercy to whomsoever He will.’

O Lord, help Thou Thy loved ones to acquire knowledge and the sciences and arts, and to unravel the secrets that are treasured up in the inmost reality of all created beings. Make them to hear the hidden truths that are written and embedded in the heart of all that is. Make them to be ensigns of guidance amongst all creatures, and piercing rays of the mind shedding forth their light in this, the ‘first life.’ Make them to be leaders unto Thee, guides unto Thy path, runners urging men on to Thy Kingdom.

Thou verily art the Powerful, the Protector, the Potent, the Defender, the Mighty, the Most Generous.

As Abdu’l-Baha said:

To be a Baha’i simply means to love all the world; to love humanity and try to serve it; to work for universal peace and universal brotherhood.

Let’s all pray for humanity and do our best to serve it to the best of our abilities.

The recent pandemic has highlighted the glaring disparities in the economic system between the rich and the poor. On the one hand, we have the plight of poor people living under the poverty line and trying to survive the onslaught of miseries caused by financial hardship. In contrast, a small percentage of people continue to add billions to their already colossal wealth.

It upsets me because it looks like humanity has lost its consciousness and has become numb to the sufferings of the poor and underprivileged. I see the ever-widening gap between the poor and the rich getting wider and wider, yet there seems to be no solution in sight. That makes me more determined than ever to keep this issue alive and continue to address it. 

I like to use the word “humanomics” to describe the solution to the inequalities in our economic system because a lack of humanity has been with the system since its inception and has had devastating effects on millions of lives. 

Baha’u’llah, the prophet and founder of the Baha’i Faith, taught us how to treat the poor. It is no wonder that he was called “Father of the Poor.” He wrote:

 Know ye that the poor are the trust of God in your midst.  Watch that ye betray not His trust, that ye deal not unjustly with them and that ye walk not in the ways of the treacherous.  Ye will most certainly be called upon to answer for His trust on the day when the Balance of Justice shall be set, the day when unto every one shall be rendered his due, when the doings of all men, be they rich or poor, shall be weighed.

The Baha’i Writings remind us to be aware of our role in taking care of the poor since our moral and spiritual duty is to protect and care for them. Baha’u’llah also wrote: “O Son of Man! Bestow My wealth upon My poor, that in heaven thou mayest draw from stores of unfading splendour and treasures of imperishable glory. But by My life! To offer up thy soul is a more glorious thing couldst thou but see with Mine eye.  

In addition to helping on an individual level, we need to work towards changing the economic system to make it more sensitive to people’s needs and inject morality and spirituality into it so that it serves humanity rather than humanity being sacrificed to make the system work. We need Humanomics: a human system with human values and less of economics. 

This can only be done by practicing truthfulness, trustworthiness, and other moral values in our actions, especially in our economic activities. These activities are not just economical but spiritual. In a talk in Boston in 1912, Abdu’l-Baha, the son of Baha’u’llah and his designated successor, explained that “The fundamentals of the whole economic condition are divine in nature and are associated with the world of the heart and spirit.” 

In 1935, Shoghi Effendi, the Guardian of the Baha’i Faith, further explained Abdu’l-Baha’s  meaning:

… By the statement ‘the economic solution is divine in nature’ is meant that religion alone can, in the last resort, bring in man’s nature such a fundamental change as to enable him to adjust the economic relationships of society.  It is only in this way that man can control the economic forces that threaten to disrupt the foundations of his existence, and thus assert his mastery over the forces of nature.

The economic problems of the world will not be solved if we do not change the system. The present financial system is a by-product of the old order and was built on wrong assumptions. It assumed that people only think of their interest and do not concern themselves with the plight of others. This assumption has been the engine for driving the system, and it has become a fertile ground for greed to spread in every aspect of human life, and we can see the result is the present economic injustices in the world.

The sad part about this is that every single day that this continues, thousands of people in the world will be dragged into a life full of economic challenges without any hope of remedy.

The essential element missing in the present economic system is justice, which has to be its foundation. Economic justice these days is the scarcest commodity in the world. In a talk in Montreal in 1912, Abdu’l-Baha told the audience:

We ask God to endow human souls with justice so that they may be fair, and may strive to provide for the comfort of all, that each member of humanity may pass his life in the utmost comfort and welfare. Then this material world will become the very paradise of the Kingdom, this elemental earth will be in a heavenly state, and all the servants of God will live in the utmost joy, happiness and gladness.

I feel that every individual is responsible for trying to do his or her utmost to lessen the burden of poverty from the shoulders of our fellow humans, so that every person in the world has the economic means to live a comfortable and fulfilled life — which is a fundamental human right for everyone.

Though the possibility of the economic system becoming more humane looks like a far-fetched dream, if we desire it and strive to attain it by playing our small part, we can transform this rigid system — which is currently devoid of spirit — into a fantastic tool for the prosperity of humanity.

Unified in Diversity: The Interconnectedness of All

Living in a world with a myriad of racial, religious, political, and cultural distinctions can sometimes overshadow the simple truth – that we are all part of a single human family. Deep within us, we harbor the same aspirations, fears, dreams, and trials. We are all susceptible to illness, mortality, and the rigors of existence. However, we also harbor the potential for affection, compassion, and benevolence. Fundamentally, we are unified in our humanity.

Affirming Our Collective Human Identity

The notion of a unified humanity is not a recent one. It’s been the bedrock of many religious doctrines, spiritual practices, and philosophical outlooks over the course of history. This idea suggests that every individual is interlinked, and events that impact one, reverberate through all. This connection is not merely physical, but extends to emotional, psychological, and spiritual dimensions.

Deciphering the Scientific Foundations of Human Bonding

Contemporary science also upholds the premise of human unity. Research demonstrates that we all bear the same genetic blueprint, with minor differences among individuals and groups. We can trace our shared lineage back to Africa, the cradle of humanity. Moreover, breakthroughs in neuroscience have indicated that our brains are structured to empathize with others, thanks to mirror neurons that enable us to experience others’ emotions.

Understanding the Roots of Our Shared Existence

So why do we frequently feel estranged from others, even demonstrating hostility towards those who differ from us? A major cause is our tendency to concentrate on what sets us apart rather than what brings us together. We classify people into categories based on race, ethnicity, religion, gender, sexual orientation, and other factors, leading to judgments rooted in stereotypes and biases. This could result in discrimination, oppression, and even violence.

Dismantling the Walls of Separation

Another contributing factor is the societal preference for individualism over communal values. We’re urged to chase our personal ambitions and vie with others for resources and accolades. This fosters a sense of detachment and seclusion, as we perceive others as impediments or threats to our personal achievements.

However, it is undeniable that we are more robust and resilient when we collaborate. Recognizing our shared humanity allows us to build bridges of understanding, empathy, and cooperation across our differences. We can glean wisdom from one another, rejoice in our diversity, and establish a common platform to stand upon.

Confronting Worldwide Challenges through United Action

We are also equipped to confront the social and environmental hurdles that confront us all. Issues like poverty, inequality, climate change, and other global concerns demand collaborative solutions that exceed national boundaries and personal pursuits. United, we can shape a fairer, more peaceful, and sustainable world for ourselves and posterity.

In conclusion, we are a unified humanity, and acknowledging this fact has the potential to revolutionize our world. By cherishing our interconnectedness, we can surmount the obstacles that segregate us and construct a more empathetic and inclusive society. Let’s take pride in our diversity, respect our shared human identity, and strive for a more luminous future for all.

Unity in Diversity: A Poetic Odyssey

In a world so immense, of varied beliefs and colors,
We tread unique routes, yet echo each other’s wonders.
In our shared humanity, a refrain we resonate,
Each one of us, a reflection of the unity we emanate.

Our dreams, our anxieties, mirror one another,
In life’s intricate maze, together we discover.
Through illness, death, and life’s untrodden quest,
In shared battles, we find our collective zest.

Religions, philosophies, science intersect,
To the central tenet of unity, they all connect.

We Are All One in Humanity: Connectedness of All People

In a world that often seems divided by race, religion, politics, and cultural differences, it can be easy to forget that we are all part of the same human family. At our core, we share the same hopes, fears, dreams, and struggles. We are all vulnerable to sickness, death, and the challenges of life. And yet, we also have the potential for love, compassion, and kindness. In essence, we are all one in humanity.

Embracing Our Shared Humanity

The concept of oneness in humanity is not new. It has been a core belief of many religions, spiritual traditions, and philosophies throughout history. The idea is that all people are interconnected, and that what happens to one person affects the whole. This interconnectedness is not just physical, but also emotional, psychological, and spiritual.

Exploring the Scientific Basis for Human Connection

Modern science also supports the idea of oneness in humanity. Studies have shown that we all share the same genetic code, with only slight variations between individuals and populations. We also share a common ancestry, with all humans originating from Africa. Additionally, advances in neuroscience have revealed that our brains are wired to empathize with others, and that we have mirror neurons that allow us to feel what others feel.

Underpinning Theories of Our Interconnectedness

So why do we often feel so disconnected from others, and even hostile towards those who are different from us? One reason is that we tend to focus on our differences rather than our similarities. We categorize people into groups based on race, ethnicity, religion, gender, sexual orientation, and other factors, and then judge them based on stereotypes and prejudices. This can lead to discrimination, oppression, and even violence.

Breaking Down the Barriers of Division

Another reason is that we are often taught to value individualism over collectivism. We are encouraged to pursue our own interests and goals, and to compete with others for resources and recognition. This can create a sense of separation and isolation, as we see others as obstacles or threats to our own success.

However, the truth is that we are stronger and more resilient when we work together. By recognizing our shared humanity, we can build bridges of understanding, empathy, and cooperation across divides. We can learn from one another, celebrate our differences, and find common ground on which to stand.

Addressing Global Challenges Through Collective Action

We can also take action to address the social and environmental challenges that affect us all. Poverty, inequality, climate change, and other global issues require collective solutions that transcend national borders and individual interests. By working together, we can create a more just, peaceful, and sustainable world for ourselves and future generations.

In conclusion, we are all one in humanity, and this recognition has the power to transform our world. By embracing our interconnectedness, we can overcome the barriers that divide us and build a more compassionate and inclusive society. Let us celebrate our diversity, honor our common humanity, and work towards a brighter future for all.

In Our Diversity, Unity: A Poetic Journey

In a world so vast, of shades and creeds,
We walk diverse paths, yet share our needs.
We are all one in humanity, the chorus we all sing,
In each of us, an echo of the unity we bring.

Our dreams, our fears, are all the same,
In life’s complex, ever-changing game.
Through sickness, death, and life’s uncharted quest,
In our shared struggles, we find our zest.

Religions, philosophies, science converge,
To the core belief of oneness, they all urge.
Our DNA, an intertwined and unending thread,
In our hearts, the same hopes are fed.

Yet, in our differences, we often dwell,
Creating stories of divide and dispel.
We judge, we stereotype, not the person but their guise,
Losing sight of the oneness that underlies.

In individual pursuits, we lose our way,
Seeing others as threats in our everyday.
Yet the truth remains, as clear as the day,
Together, we are stronger in every way.

Through empathy, understanding, a bridge we create,
A shared humanity, in which we all participate.
In our differences, a cause for celebration,
Finding common ground, our shared foundation.

Global challenges looming large and profound,
Collective solutions need to be found.
Together, against poverty, inequality, we fight,
Creating a world just, peaceful, and bright.

We are all one in humanity, a powerful realization,
An understanding that can transform our global nation.
So, let’s celebrate diversity, honor our shared life,
Work towards a future, free of strife.

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