Star of the West
Star of the West: Early Baha'i Publication Bridging East and West
Star of the West was a prominent Baha'i periodical published in the U.S. from 1910 to 1935, featuring translations of Tablets from ‘Abdu’l-Bahá and writings of Shoghi Effendi. Originally titled Bahai News, it adopted the name Star of the West in its second volume and later transitioned to The Baha’i Magazine in 1922. This publication served as a crucial source of news on the global Baha'i community, blending English and Persian content, with Mírzá Ahmad Sohráb and later Zia Bagdadi contributing Persian sections.
Edited by Albert Windust and Gertrude Buikema in Chicago, Star of the West initially focused on translations, though some material fell into the category of “pilgrim's notes” and lacked official verification. After The Bahai Bulletin ceased publication in 1909, Star of the West emerged, with editing responsibilities eventually transferring to the newly established National Spiritual Assembly of the United States in 1923.
In 1935, Star of the West merged with World Unity Magazine, leading to the formation of World Order Magazine. Praised by ‘Abdu’l-Bahá and later supported by the Universal House of Justice for republication, Star of the West remains a valued part of Baha'i literature, capturing early community insights and spiritual guidance.
