Aghsán


Aghṣán is a term in the literature of the Baháʼí Faith referring to the male descendants of Baháʼu'lláh.
It has particular implications not only for the disposition of endowments but also for the succession of authority following the passing of Baháʼu'lláh and of his son ʻAbdu'l-Bahá.
Baháʼí literature grant a special station to the members of the Aghṣán, indicating that Baháʼís should treat them with particular respect and courtesy, but do not grant them any administrative or spiritual authority within the Baháʼí Faith outside of those selected as successors to Baháʼu'lláh.

Guardianship

In his Will, ʻAbdul-Bahá established the institution of the Guardianship, which is a hereditary leadership position. He appointed Shoghi Effendi as the first Guardian, and said that the Guardian should appoint his successor, either from his first-born son, or if he were found lacking, from among the male descendants of Baháʼu'lláh. The appointment would be ratified by the Hands of the Cause. He writes:

List of Aghsán