People of diverse backgrounds gathered on the illuminated terraces leading to the Shrine of the Báb on Mount Carmel for a fourth occasion of the “Terraces by Night.”
BAHÁ’Í WORLD CENTRE — In the twilight hours last Wednesday and Thursday, the Shrine of the Báb on Mount Carmel and the terraces that surround it beckoned guests to the fourth “Terraces by Night.” Amid the turbulent affairs of the world, many expressed their appreciation for that sacred place and the harmonious feelings it creates among visitors.
More than 4,600 visitors of all ages from different faith, linguistic, and ethnic backgrounds shared in the luminous atmosphere of the terraces and Shrine. As they walked through the softly lit terraces, the perfume of santolina and roses in the air, they paused to take in their surroundings and connect with neighbors, friends and strangers alike. Many entered the Shrine to pray, to meditate, or to sit in silent reflection.
“We trust that the night-time effect of these hallowed and sanctified locations can delight the eyes and gladden the hearts of all who enter therein,” said David Rutstein, Secretary-General of the Bahá’í International Community.
Since the initiative’s inception, “Terraces by Night” has become known and well-loved, drawing area residents, dignitaries, youth and families from near and far.
The very first Terraces by Night was held in 2019 in honor of the bicentenary of the birth of the Báb.
Tjireya Tjitendero, Senior Advisor to the Bahá’í International Community Secretariat, explained: “That was the first time that the Shrine of the Báb and the terraces were open to the public at night where a running theme was illumination, representing the light that the Báb brought to the world.”
Across the two evenings, art stations at the upper and lower entry points to the terraces invited guests, especially children, to reflect on the theme of hope and to give it creative expression.
“When I heard that they were opening the gardens for a night visit, I took a day off from work, and we came here with all my family,” said Nikita, a resident of ‘Akká.
Tahirih, a volunteer for the event, shared an account of how a group of youth full of “desire for harmony and peace” had travelled for hours to attend the event. “I was touched by their energy and hopeful spirit,” she said.
Rasmiya, one young person from Nazareth, commented that with effort and persistence, any dream can be reached.
“It is very moving to be here, to feel a sense of healing,” said Shulamit, a resident of Haifa who also regularly participates in prayer gatherings hosted by the World Centre in the‘Akká-Haifa area. “I feel connected to a sense of unity, of peace, and from here we send peace to the whole world.”
Ariane Sabet, Deputy Secretary-General of the Bahá’í International Community, explained how the beauty of the terraces and gardens adorning the Báb’s resting place are symbolic of the potential for inner transformation. “The terraces and this holy place stand as a reminder and expression of not only transformation of the physical environment, but also of what is possible in the hearts of people,” she said.
Sheikh Muwaffaq Shaheen, an imam of a mosque in Kafr Manda, described his awe: “I came to this sacred place, which captivates the eyes and takes hold of the heart and mind.
“It is very beautiful,” he added. “And God is beautiful and loves beauty. … I stand here to witness the beauty of this magnificent divine miracle.”
Many also watched the film “Vineyard of the Lord,” which provides an introduction to the Bahá’í Faith’s history and teachings, as well as an overview of the Bahá’í Holy Places in the ‘Akká-Haifa area.
Haifa’s Mayor, Yona Yahav, reflected on the importance of the event: “The Bahá’í Gardens and the Shrine of the Báb are among Haifa’s most beautiful, impressive, and iconic landmarks, and a source of pride for all the city’s residents. ‘Terraces by Night’ provides an opportunity to experience this special place in a different atmosphere and to enjoy the values of beauty, tranquillity, tolerance, and hope.”
Mayor Yahav added: “The Bahá’í presence enriches Haifa not only through the extraordinary beauty of its gardens and holy sites, but also through a spirit of mutual respect, unity, and cooperation…”
