The number nine, which in itself is the number of
perfection, is considered by the Bahá'ís as sacred because it is symbolic of
the perfection of the Bahá'í Revelation, which constitutes the ninth in the
line of existing religions, the latest and fullest Revelation which mankind has
ever known. The eighth is the Religion of the Báb, and the remaining seven are:
Hinduism, Buddhism, Zoroastrianism, Judaism, Christianity, Islam and the
religion of the Sabaeans. These religions are not the only true religions that
have appeared in the world, but are the only ones which are still existing.
There have always been divine prophets and messengers, to many of whom the
Qur'án refers. But the only ones existing are those mentioned above.
- Shoghi Effendi
(From a letter written on behalf of Shoghi Effendi to an individual
believer, dated 28 July 1936; The Compilation of Compilations, vol. I, Extracts
from the Baha’i Writings on Buddha, Krishna, Zoroaster, and related subjects)
