The Baha’i Temple in Chicago is a very amazing place. The architecture is an interesting part that helps symbolize the religion within the design. The French architect, Louis Bourgeois, who planned the building was a brilliant man who made the building reflect the religion. The bell-shaped dome part of the temple has 9 different supporting “ribs.” The number 9 in the Baha’i faith represents completeness, wholeness and unity. They also represent the hands of all religions joining together as one under the on true God, which is a strong theme in Baha’i. There are also nine entrances into the temple. Many symbols are engraved into the temple. The Cross, the Star of David, the crescent moon, the wheel and other ancient symbols that have been associated with God can be found around the building. The most important symbol in the building can be found in the interior Dome. It is an Arabic calligraphy symbol, which reads “O glory of the all Glorious.” The gardens and fountains around the temple give it a serene and peaceful feeling. The flowers of the garden represent the people of the world as part of the whole. Again, we have that theme of unity. Every Baha’i temple around the world has these characteristics.
In the words of Louis Bourgeois “This temple, coming from the realm of Baha’i is the great bell calling to America.”
To watch some video footage check out this site:
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