The Administrative Order conceived by Baha'u'llah
accomplishes its divinely ordained purpose through a system of institutions,
each with its defined sphere of action. The central governing body of the Order
is the Universal House of Justice, whose terms of reference are the revealed
Word of Baha'u'llah together with the
interpretations and expositions of 'Abdu'l-Baha
and the Guardian. Under its guidance, legislative, executive and
judicial authority over the affairs of the Baha'i community is exercised by
Local and National Spiritual Assemblies. This authority is also exercised by
Regional Councils, committees and other agencies established by these institutions,
to the extent that it is so delegated.
- The Universal House of Justice (From a
message dated 1 January 2001)
