A place where you seek inner wisdom, A place where all regions are welcomed.
“Ye are the fruits of one tree, and the leaves of one branch. Deal ye one with another with the utmost love and harmony, with friendliness and fellowship.”
— BAHA’U’LLAH
When one of our friends was pondering over where to visit over a weekend and do something different, we chose the path of spirituality. Located in Lincoln Ave, Wilmette Chicago Bahai temple is an architectural marvel and interesting faith. It was even more interesting to know it is the mother temple of America and there are only 8 such in the world.
The area is interesting for families and kids as there is a beach and park nearby. So it is a place where you can spend a good day. There is ample parking on the premises and nearby. Admission is free and there is no photography permitted inside the auditorium.
Opened to the public in 1953, it took 50 years of construction through the world wars. The 9 doors to the temple and the gardens around it welcome all people from all directions. Among the noise and chaos of the city, the pin-drop silence of the auditorium is the best place to close your eyes, listen to your breathing, feel alive and reflect.
The snow-white building with a beautifully built dome with carving is a visual treat. As you get closer to the building, the gardens and fountains lead to the doors of the auditorium. This beautiful setting is there from all 9 directions and entering the premises will take us to serenity.
The lower level of the welcome center has visual displays, a lot of literature on the origins of the worship, and interesting community facts. Get to know more about the teachings of Baha’u’llah and the story of “The Bab”. Explore the teachings of these divine messengers to humanity and immerse ourselves in the principle of one humanity
The carvings are fabulous and we see the influence of Gothic, Roman, and Islamic mix of styles. The pillars have symbols like the star of David, crescents, crucifixes, and symbols from a variety of faith.
The gardens approach from all sides reflecting eastern and western influences, laced with fountains. The gardens are considered the extension of the sacred auditorium. The flower bed and trees surrounding the temple add more appeal to the peaceful environment
More details for the house of worship can be found here https://www.bahai.us/
The mother temples across the world as below
