The Baha’i House of Worship

Suburban Chicago isn’t the first place that comes to mind when you think of major religious centers. But Wilmette, a small town located less than 10 miles north of the Windy City, is home to the only Bahá’í House of Worship in North America. Dedicated in 1953, the temple—one of seven in the world—took more than three decades to build and features symbols from different world religions in its intricate design, signifying that everyone is welcome. An ornate dome crowns the nine-sided structure and symbolizes the unity of all people and religions under God. Visitors are welcome to explore the temple and surrounding geometric gardens. You can also call ahead to arrange a group tour.

While visiting family in Chicago, my cousin and I went for a drive and came across this intricately carved structure just north of the city. The Baha’i Temple in Wilmette is an unexpectedly stately building on the shores of Lake Michigan. With multiple religious symbols adorning its nine sides, this is one of the most interesting architectural statements of faith in the U.S. About a half-hour north of downtown Chicago.

I have been driving past this structure for almost 10 years, and had no idea of its significance. One day, I finally stopped, with two cameras in tow, and took almost 100 photos. This is but one, and it hardly does the place justice, but if nothing else it will hopefully inspire others to plan a visit. There are currently only seven Baha’i temples in the world, and this is the only one in North America, and it’s located in Wilmette, IL. The intricacy and painstaking detail put into the construction of the temple is staggering. I’m not even going to try and belabor the point with words, I’m simply going to implore you to go. I’m not a religious person, but I’ll be darned if this place doesn’t make you think twice.

During a trip to the Baha’i House of Worship in Wilmette, IL I learned that the Baha’i believe in: The oneness of humanity, the common origin and unity of purpose of all world religions, the harmony of science and religion, equality of women and men, the elimination of all forms of prejudice, a spiritual solution to economic problems, and the establishment of a world commonwealth of nations. Prior to this trip I had only read about the Baha’i Faith. I really wanted to see the Temple in Delhi when I was in Indian but was unable to make it so this was a special treat for me. I really enjoyed the architecture of the temple in Wilmette, just a short drive up Lake Michigan. Unfortunately you’ll need a car but if you have the opportunity to visit I highly encourage it. The website attached below has directions from Chicago.

This is one of the seven Bahá'í Temples in the world, and the only one in North America. It is located, almost strangely, in a wealthy suburb just outside of Chicago. Each of the temples is white, round, has 9 sides, and is surrounded by lush gardens and fountains. Yet, the architectural design for each is uniquely beautiful. The Chicago Temple has the most intricate and compelling ceilings I have ever seen. The entire structure is humbling and serene as you become aware of your smallness standing below. The design represents unity, and echoes the foundation of the Bahá'í Faith, which is Oneness. Oneness of God, Humanity, and Religion.