Irfan Colloquia Services and Activities

See pictures and news at our Facebook page. The `Irfán Colloquium started in 1993 and has continued to be held annually in North America and Europe. `Irfán activities aim at fostering systematic studies of the scriptures of the world's religions from the Bahá'í perspective and promoting scholarly studies in the sacred writings, verities, and fundamental principles of the belief system of the Bahá'í Faith. The programs of these colloquia also include presentations of the interface between the Bahá'í Faith and various religions and schools of thought. Annual colloquia and seminars are held separately in the English, German and Persian languages at the Center for Bahá'í Studies, Acuto, Italy; Louhelen Bahá'í School, Michigan, USA; Bosch Bahá'í School, California, USA; and the Tambach Conference Center in Germany.

`Irfán Colloquia provide an opportunity for dialogue, networking and team-building among those engaged in Bahá'í studies. It is also a unique occasion for all those attending these gatherings to meet and associate with researchers and scholars and benefit from their presentations. A lighter program including poetry, music and song is offered in the evenings. Participants receive a set of `Irfán publications.

'Irfán is a Persian-Arabic word referring to mystical, theological, and spiritual knowledge. `Irfán Colloquium was launched, and the colloquia are being held, with the sponsorship of Haj Mehdi Arjmand Memorial Fund in memory of Haj Mehdi Arjmand (1861-1941). `Irfán Colloquia are organized under the auspices of the National Spiritual Assemblies of the Bahá'ís of the countries where they are held.

Annual Publications of the `Irfán Colloquium, online at Publications:

  • Safini-yi 'Irfán: Papers Presented at the `Irfán Colloquia (in Persian)
  • Lights of `Irfán: Papers Presented at the `Irfán Colloquia and Seminars (in English)
  • Beiträge des 'Irfán-Kolloquiums: 'Irfán-Studien zum Bahá'í-Schrifttum (in German)

Contact the `Irfán Colloquia:
    Iraj Ayman
    iayman(at)usbnc.org
    Tel: (773) 493-8560 or (847) 733-3501
    Fax: (847) 733-3527
For website issues and corrections:
    Jonah Winters, jonahwinters@gmail.com