Baháʼí House of Worship

Tanna

Around the world, Bahá’ís have build beautiful Houses of Worship for prayer and meditation, open to all humanity. While each House of Worship is unique and seeks to reflect the culture and tradition of the country it is built in, they all reflect a love of beauty, a desire for unity, and an openness to people of all backgrounds and traditions.

House of Worship Design

The House of Worship is contributing to enhance the vibrant community life on Tanna. A sense of collective ownership of the Temple, even before its design had been unveiled, was already present in the consciousness of the island’s inhabitants.

In the early stages of the design process, numerous people from the island, including chiefs and other tribal leaders, submitted ideas for the structure of the central edifice and gathered for meetings to discuss its purpose and implications for their society.

"The design of the House of Worship in Tanna has been inspired by the Baha’i writings, and we have endeavored to portray its principles in the structure,” said the architect. The Temple will uniquely symbolize the unity of all people and the integral connection of worship of God and service to humanity.

The design itself is captivating in its simple yet striking form, inspired by the coconut and banyan trees of the island and the natural forms of the landscape. Double-sided roofs made of leaves rise to a central point, making the Temple appear as a nine-pointed star. The Temple has space for 300 visitors and a choir and will be used for community devotions as well as private meditation and prayer.

"O people of the world! Build ye houses of worship throughout the lands... Then, with radiance and joy, celebrate therein the praise of your Lord..."

~ Bahá’u’lláh