The Institution of the Nineteen Day Feast: An Administrative and Social-Psychological Perspective

Abstract

One of the innovative measures in the Bahá'í Faith is the institution of the Nineteen Day Feast. This injunction is revealed in the Book of Aqdas (#57). This verse starts with these words" It has been enjoined upon you" which means you are obliged "to offer a feast once in every month". In answer to the question as to whether this injunction is obligatory, Bahá'u'lláh stated that it was not (Q&A 48). However Shoghi Effendi (in a letter written on his behalf) further comments: Attendance at the Nineteen Day Feast is not obligatory but very important, and every believer should consider a duty and privilege to be present on such occasion. (Note 82)