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Source: Bahá'í Library Online (bahai-library.com), curated by Jonah Winters. Used by permission of the curator. Original citation: David Merrick, Birth and Childhood of Baha'u'llah, bahai-library.com.
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Birth and Childhood of Baha'u'llah
David Merrick
2008
Early Life of Bahá'u'lláh
Father, Family, Lineage, Location
Looking north onto the shore of the Caspian Sea, and
nestling against the protective rocky peaks to the south, lies the small
village of Takur. This village is the ancestral home of one of the most ancient,
wealthy and renowned families of Nur, a family honoured by its descent from Abraham,
Zoroaster and the ancient Prophets, and through the last Zoroastrian King of
Persia. Many members of this family held important Government posts, both in
the Civil and the Military.
It was to this illustrious family that Bahá'u'lláh's father
was born, and named 'Abbas. As an adult, he was married, and lived within the
Persian Capital of Tihran, where he was a favoured minister of the Crown.
Father Named 'Mirza Buzurg'
Bahá'u'lláh's father was distinguished by a special name
from the Shah himself. One day the Shah was marvelling at a masterpiece of beautiful
writing, wondering if anyone alive could ever create its equal. Bahá'u'lláh's
father was suggested, and was sent for. Challenged to match its excellence and
beauty, he copied this work of art, adding his own lines, and after
illuminating them, he brought the new masterpiece as a present to the Shah.
The Shah was overwhelmed with admiration, and he issued a
royal decree giving Bahá'u'lláh's father the name of 'Mirza Buzurg'; he also gave
him a robe of honour, which he had himself worn, and exempted his entire
village from tax. A few years later, Bahá'u'lláh's father was made a
high-ranking advisor to the Shah's own son, and so he prospered in this and many
other ways.
Birth of Bahá'u'lláh
Bahá'u'lláh's father had seven wives, and a great many
children through them. At dawn, on the second day of the Islamic Year, on 12
November 1817, his wife Khadijih Khanum gave birth to the eldest of her surviving
sons.
At that very same moment, Shaykh Ahmad, who announced the
coming of the Báb and Bahá'u'lláh, was found fallen upon his face, repeating in
wrapt devotion the words, 'God is Great!' and saying, 'That which I have been
announcing to you is now revealed. At this very hour the light of the Promised
One has broken, and is shedding illumination upon the world.'
Given the name of Husayn-'Ali, as the Child grew from an
infant into adulthood, He astounded all who encountered Him, and would later,
as Bahá'u'lláh, change the face of history.
Infancy
From His birth, Bahá'u'lláh never cried, always remaining in
a most remarkable state of peacefulness. His mother was completely astonished,
and before long it became obvious to everyone around, that her Child was entirely
different from other children.
Residence
Bahá'u'lláh was brought up on the outskirts of Tihran, close
to a moat. Part of every year, typically in the summer months, He would spend
in His father's great mansion in their ancestral village of Takur, on the
shores of the sea.
In a prominent place of this mansion, there still survives
the inscription of Bahá'u'lláh's father, recording, "When you reach the
threshold of the Beloved, say 'Yea'; for 'Peace' and 'Upon Thee' find no place there.
This is the vale of Love, pause your steps; this is holy ground, cast off your shoes!"
Character and Qualities
Bahá'u'lláh as a child displayed a purity of character quite
extraordinary, and a wonderful, innate wisdom and knowledge.
He greatly loved outdoor life, spending most of His time in
the garden or fields.
Extremely kind and generous, He had an incredible power of
attraction, which was felt by all. People always crowded around Him, children
were devoted to Him, and the ministers and people of the Court would gather about
Him.
Schooling
As He grew up, Bahá'u'lláh desired no schooling. He received
a little customary education at home, in riding, using a sword or gun, good
manners, calligraphy, poetries, and the ability to read out the words of the Qur'an.
Despite a lack education, Bahá'u'lláh shone forth in wisdom
and ability, and all who knew Bahá'u'lláh were astonished. It was usual for
them to say, that such a child will not live beyond maturity.
Letter [5]
To His aunt, when still so young in years, the Child
Bahá'u'lláh wrote this remarkable and most literate letter:-
"He is the Well-Beloved! God willing you are abiding
restfully beneath the canopy of Divine mercy, and the tabernacle of His bounty.
Although to outward seeming, I am little and cannot write, yet because this Illiterate
One is clinging to the Divine Lote tree, He can read without knowledge and
write without being taught. And this fact is clear and evident in the spiritual
realm to those endowed with insight. Those who are outside have been, and still
are, unaware of this mystery."
Dream of Swimming in an Ocean [5-6]
One night Bahá'u'lláh appeared in a dream, which was so very
vivid, it awakened its dreamer.
Bahá'u'lláh was in a garden; great birds flew overhead; they
attacked Him, yet they were powerless to harm Him. He was bathing in the sea, and
began to swim in a vast, limitless ocean; His body shone out, and illuminated
the sea! Above the waters, His long, jet-black locks, stood forth, floating in
great profusion above the waves in all directions. Large numbers of fish
gathered around Him, each fish holding fast to the end of a hair with its mouth.
There were every kind of fish: large fish, small fish, white and black: and wherever
He swam, they followed the light of His face. Such a vast number of fish clinging
so tightly, caused no damage: not even a hair was lost from His head. Free and
unrestrained, Bahá'u'lláh moved above the waters, with all the fish following
His light.
His father was stunned by this dream, and with the Shah's
permission, laid it before his well-known seer. The seer, swept away with amazement,
explained how the garden and its birds, and the limitless ocean with its fish, were
the world of existence, and its people, and that Bahá'u'lláh would single-handedly
triumph over it, unhindered and alone; yet, he declared himself quite unable to
imagine how it could ever come to pass. So His father took him to see Bahá'u'lláh,
who was just a Child of five, and his praise and admiration of Bahá'u'lláh was
so profuse, and so great his concern that He be protected, that His father became
yet more passionately devoted to Him.
Short in Size [7]
As Bahá'u'lláh was walking one day, and His parents were
watching Him, His mother happened to comment upon His shortness. His father
immediately rejoined that such things had no importance: "Just look how
intelligent He is!" he said:- "What a wonderful mind He has!"
Tax Collector [7]
During His childhood, Bahá'u'lláh witnessed three
confrontations between His father, and a very unjust tax collector, who was cruelly
demanding payment. Incensed, Bahá'u'lláh, though merely seven, mounted His
horse, and rode for two days to Tihran, where He sought the dismissal of the arrogant
tax collector. He succeeded in obtaining the necessary papers ordering his
dismissal, and returned successful to His parents.
Banu Qurayza [12]
The story of the execution for treason of a large number of
Jews, one day came before Bahá'u'lláh's eyes, and He was so moved, so profoundly
filled with sadness and grief. Yet He felt surging before Him the limitless
ocean of God's mercy and forgiveness, and He implored God to grant in the world
the establishment of unity and love.
Transfiguration [12]
A short while after, suddenly before dawn, Bahá'u'lláh was
overcome by a transfiguration, lasting for twelve days, unceasingly, bringing
glad-tidings of the highest success and joy. Entirely transforming His manners,
thought and speech, from thenafter the ocean of His words began to surge, and
the sun of assurance shone forth from Him.
Skill and Renown [13]
By the time he was thirteen, Bahá'u'lláh was renowned for
His ability to discuss any matter, and resolve any problem presented before Him.
He was always courteous and patient, and only the disrespectful
reference to a Messenger or Chosen One of God was able to arouse His
displeasure; even then, He would address the offender with kindliness and calm.
He appeared before large gatherings in discussions with the
leading clergy, resolving intricate religious questions, whilst everyone paid deep
attention and interest, and His explanations became the authoritative word on every
matter.
Despite these abilities, the kulah on His head and the locks
flowing over His shoulders meant no one ever suspected a person of such a class
would become the fountain of a new Truth and revitalising Spirit.
Political Unambition
Bahá'u'lláh was held in the highest regard by all levels of
society, yet He showed no desire for the splendid ranks and positions opening
out everywhere before Him; the Prime Minister himself had even offered Him a
post in the government. All these very things His ancestors pursued and
cultivated, and His relatives held out great hopes for Him. His lack of
interest in such things of importance was therefore a cause of great surprise
and frequent comment.
Generosity
Whilst declining such wealthy position and income, Bahá'u'lláh
showed astonishing generosity. The doors of His home were open to all, and He
always had many guests, giving abundantly to all in need. He was a refuge for
every weak one, a shelter for the fearful one, kind to the destitute, and
lenient and loving to all creatures. This unbounded generosity amazed everyone,
as He did not use it to promote His position; rather, it was clear to everyone
that such free generosity would quickly cause His wealth to disappear entirely.
The more spiritually-minded saw in these acts His attraction to the celestial realm
of God and a great destiny to come.
Turbaned Divines on Gabriel
One day, two hugely-turbaned divines were instructing some
ladies hidden behind a curtain. They were questioning whether the angel Gabriel
was superior to the first Imam's servant; and, whether the brother of the martyred
third Imam was superior to a certain companion of Muhammad. Bahá'u'lláh was
astonished at the tone of their debate, saying that since the Holy Spirit
descended upon the heart of Muhammad through Gabriel, then even the first Imam
himself could not remotely reach Him!
Dream of the Promised One (Qa'im)
Distantly related to Bahá'u'lláh, there was a famous
religious doctor who taught a thousand scholars, and he would present them with
complex questions to resolve.
It was Bahá'u'lláh's custom to stop by. One morning after prayer,
this religious doctor told Bahá'u'lláh's mother of a most impressive and
powerful dream he had experienced. In this dream, he found himself outside a
house. No one was allowed to enter, and the door-keeper told him that the Promised
One was inside, in a secret meeting with Bahá'u'lláh. He was very surprised that
the son of a government advisor should be so privileged, instead of someone with
a religious calling like himself; after a little reflection, he decided that this
privilege of a secret meeting with the Promised One must have been given Bahá'u'lláh
by virtue of His distant kinship to himself!
Daughters of Fatimih and Mary
On another occasion, Bahá'u'lláh was sitting with this same
man, along with other scholars and divines. They asked Bahá'u'lláh to resolve a
question, as they had been unable to answer it themselves with any satisfaction.
How could Fatimih, they wondered, be the best of all women, except the one born
of Mary, when Mary had no daughter? Bahá'u'lláh replied that this was simply in
praise of there being no woman comparable to Fatimih. The teacher held a stern
silence, and the next day rebuked his disciples for letting an unturbaned youth
solve a matter which they, with all their years of training, were unable to resolve.
Dream of the Trunks
On another night, this same doctor had a second dream, in
which he came across a room full of trunks. He was told the trunks belonged to Bahá'u'lláh,
and when he opened one, he found it packed with books. All the lines of the
books were studded with gems, shining so brilliantly, that he awoke out of his
dream.
Jesus Christ at Door
One day, Bahá'u'lláh was present in the gathering of a
famous Sufi whom the Shah admired immensely. The sufi began boasting that if his
servant brought him news that Jesus was at the door asking to see him, he was
so detached he would feel no wish to go. Many kept silent; others murmured flatteringly
their assent. Bahá'u'lláh alone spoke up, turning to the boaster, and challenging
him. "The Shah is very devoted to you; however, if the chief executioner and
ten men arrived at the door and told you the monarch wanted to see you, would
you be calm, or troubled?" The sufi paused for a while, and admitted he
would feel rather anxious. Bahá'u'lláh's authoritative statement, that he
should therefore not make such claims, left him lost for a reply.
Puppet Show [13]
When Bahá'u'lláh was still a child, His father arranged for
one of His older brothers to marry. The festivities lasted for seven days and
nights, and on the final day, there was a puppet show. A large number of
princes, dignitaries, and notables gathered from the capital for the occasion,
and Bahá'u'lláh was sitting in one of the upper rooms of the building, watching.
A tent was pitched in the courtyard, and from it soon some tiny human-like
figures emerged, crying, "His Majesty is coming! Arrange the seats at
once!" Other figures came out, engaged in sweeping and sprinkling of water,
and then the chief town crier bade the people assemble for the audience with
the king. Several groups began to arrive and take their places, the first wearing
hats and sashes, the second wielding battleaxes, and the third of footmen and
executioners with batons. Finally, the king himself appeared in majesty and
splendour, crowned with a royal diadem, bearing himself with unspeakable superiority
and grandeur. Advancing with pauses, he proceeded with great seriousness to his
throne.
As he sat upon his throne, a surge of shots were fired, and trumpets
sounded; the king and the tent were enveloped in a great pall of smoke. As it cleared,
the king was seen upon his throne surrounded by a suite of ministers, princes,
and dignitaries standing to attention. A thief was brought before the king, and
ordered to be beheaded. The chief executioner cut off his head, with blood
flowing from him. News was brought in of a rebellion, and the king reviewed and
despatched several regiments and artillery. Cannons began booming from behind
the tent, and the battle was announced.
The royal scene came to an end; the curtain was drawn down, and
twenty minutes later, a man emerged from behind the tent carrying a box under
his arm.
Bahá'u'lláh asked him about the box, and he replied that all
the lavish display was now contained within that box. Bahá'u'lláh experienced
the world as an impermanent and inconsequential puppet display, and marvelled how
men should pride themselves upon the vain and fleeting things around them.
Asiyih Khanum [15]
When Bahá'u'lláh was nearly fifteen, His elder sister was married.
The man she married had a younger, only sister, whose name was Asiyih Khanum. She
was an endearing, vivacious and very beautiful young woman, tall, slender and
graceful, with dark blue eyes and a wonderful intelligence. She was most considerate
and gentle with everybody, her actions overflowing with loving-kindness springing
from a pure heart. Her very presence enfolded everyone in the fragrance of her
good spirits. When He was eighteen, Bahá'u'lláh's sister asked their father if
he would seek Asiyih for Bahá'u'lláh: and so their marriage took place in
October 1835.
Bahá'u'lláh later named her Navvab, and bestowed upon her
the unique distinction of being His everlasting companion in all the worlds of
God.
Asiyih came from a noble and wealthy family; her wedding
treasures were so extensive, forty mules were needed to carry them to His home.
For six months before the marriage, a jeweller worked at her home, preparing jewellery
- even the buttons of her garments were gold, set with precious stones. These
two marriages roused much interest in the land, the people seeing great wealth adding
to more wealth.
Father and Mother of the Poor
Yet the wealth they inherited, they spent on charitable ends.
Taking part as little as possible in State functions, social ceremonies, and
the luxurious habits of high-placed and wealthy families, they treated worldly
pleasures of no worth, and occupied themselves instead in caring for the poor,
and for all who were unhappy or troubled. From their doors nobody was ever turned
away, and a welcoming table was spread for all who might come. The poor women flowed
constantly to Asiyih, pouring out their stories of woe, and were comforted and
consoled by her love and helpfulness.
Bahá'u'lláh was called "the Father of the Poor," whilst
Asiyih was named "the Mother of Consolation."
Bahá'u'lláh told to warn Father [17]
The Shah passed away, and his grandson took up the throne. Through
the good friendship of the Prime Minister, Bahá'u'lláh's father became both governor
and tax collector over a large and rebellious region, taming the unruly
inhabitants with such excellence and justice, that he was commended by the Shah.
A vain man persuaded the Shah to put this friend treacherously to death, and then
rose immediately to the high position of Prime Minister himself. Bahá'u'lláh's
father could not hide his feelings of horror and disgust, and on hearing a
rumour that the Shah had replaced him, expressed his delight in a letter to a
Prince, who then showed the letter to him. Infuriated, the Prime Minister sent
for Bahá'u'lláh and showed him his father's letter, asking why he had deserved
this. Bahá'u'lláh held silence. One of those present took the letter, and trying
to smooth matters away, stated it was a forgery. The Prime Minister exclaimed
this was impossible, since no one else could produce such a beautiful
calligraphy and style of writing. Still Bahá'u'lláh kept silent, and the Prime
Minister advised Him to write to His father to ensure it should not happen
again. However, firm in eliminating his chief rivals, he retaliated as soon as
he was able, and had Bahá'u'lláh's father dismissed from the governorship, stopped
his annual allowance, and induced his last wife, the daughter of the previous
Shah, whom he had married a few years earlier, to divorce him. In dire
financial straits and with such a very large family, Bahá'u'lláh's father was
driven into selling part of his properties and mortgaging others, including those
in Tihran where he and his family resided, whilst flooding destroyed the better
part of the mansion he had built and richly furnished in Takur. Some while
later he bought them back through Bahá'u'lláh.
Though His father was brought to ruin by such powerful
enemies, yet they continued to hold Bahá'u'lláh in very high esteem.
Father's Woes - Divorce, Reselling and Resettlement
With the backing of the Prime Minister and her powerful
nephew, his last wife forced through the divorce with such a heavy settlement that
he could not pay it immediately: so she had Bahá'u'lláh's father imprisoned in
his own house, and set men to beat him daily and torture him to extract the money
from him. At last, he was obliged to sell again his houses and furnishings in
the capital for a negligible sum, leading to the separation of Bahá'u'lláh from
His brother, who went to live near the entrance of a Mosque, whilst Bahá'u'lláh
rented a place to live near the Gate of Shimiran, near the theological college
where Mulla Husayn would stay on his journey, carrying the message of the Báb
to Tihran.
Bahá'u'lláh Living near Gate of Shimiran
Bahá'u'lláh took with Him, His mother, wife, other
step-mothers and the other brothers and sisters, and remained in this residence
for the remaining years of His stay in Iran. The children of Bahá'u'lláh - 'Abdu'l-Bahá,
Bahiyyih Khanum and Mirza Mihdi - were all born to Asiyih Khanum in this rented
accommodation.
Regaining Houses
The storms eventually subsided, and Bahá'u'lláh's father attempted
to regain the houses auctioned off for such a negligible sum. The illegality of
the sale was announced by some noted divines; however, no reparation was ever made.
Passing of Father [22]
He made plans to retire to 'Iraq; however, death intervened,
and Bahá'u'lláh's father passed away, in 1839. He was carried on to 'Iraq, and remained
remembered highly for his calligraphy. Bahá'u'lláh, though still a youth, was left
responsible for His younger brothers and sisters, and the management of the
extensive family estates.
Position Offered
With His father's passing, the Government was eager for
Bahá'u'lláh to succeed His father in the Ministry. Bahá'u'lláh declined this
custom, and so the Prime Minister left Him to pursue the higher-minded aims He
clearly sought, and continued to show Bahá'u'lláh the utmost consideration, visiting
Him in His home, and addressing Him as his own son.
Bahá'u'lláh's Youthful Position
Receiving such continuous marks of consideration and favour
from the Prime Minister, despite the great alienation from His father, his
successor and other ministers became filled with envy and resented the
superiority which Bahá'u'lláh, a mere youth, was clearly given, and they expected
and feared the time He would succeed His father.
Jealousy
The high regard of the Prime Minister for Bahá'u'lláh meant
he would inevitably come to seek Bahá'u'lláh's support for one of his intrigues.
The uprightness of Bahá'u'lláh's dealings with the Prime Minister, His skill in
handling such a confrontation and His faith in Divine protection, ensured that
He came through unscathed.
Purchase of Estate Thwarted
One day, the Prime Minister was passing through a village
belonging to Bahá'u'lláh. He was so impressed by its charm, beauty and abundant
water that he decided to become its owner. He summoned Bahá'u'lláh to purchase
the village for him immediately. Bahá'u'lláh replied that He willingly would have
done so had it been wholly His, but other inhabitants shared the village with Him,
and He would need to have their approval. So the Prime Minister began to plan an
underhand means to gain the property. Bahá'u'lláh, with the consent of everyone
concerned, transferred the village to the Shah's sister, who had often desired
to become its owner. This made the Prime Minister furious, and he attempted to
seize it forcibly, claiming he had purchased it. His representatives were
severely rebuked by those of the Shah's sister. He complained to the Shah, who
had that same night learnt of the matter. The Shah demanded the Prime Minister give
up the idea, and so he in turn summoned Bahá'u'lláh and strove by every means to
discredit His name. Bahá'u'lláh responded vigorously to every charge, and
succeeded in establishing His innocence. In a fury, the Prime Minister declared
how Bahá'u'lláh must be plotting against him, as seen by the number and variety
of His daily guests. Bahá'u'lláh made it clear how out of the abundance of His
heart, He was sharing His bread with his fellow men. The Prime Minister dared
not reply, and though supported by the religious and civil powers of Persia, he
found himself defeated in every contest he ventured against Bahá'u'lláh.
Other Encounters Summarised
On various other occasions, Bahá'u'lláh's innocence was
established over His opponents' attacks, and these triumphs enhanced His
position and spread abroad His fame. All men high and low marvelled at His
miraculous success in emerging unscathed from the most perilous encounters.
Nothing short of Divine protection, they felt, could have ensured His safety.
Not once did Bahá'u'lláh submit to the arrogance, greed, and treachery of those
around, despite the gravest perils. Whilst constantly associating with the
highest religious and ministerial figures of the land, He would fearlessly
champion the cause of truth before them and their gatherings, asserting the
rights of the downtrodden, defending the weak and protecting the innocent.
Message of the Báb [26]
Immediately following the Call of God proclaimed by the Báb,
Mulla Husayn set off at the Báb's own bidding and sealed with His power and
protection. Seeking that incomparable light hidden in Tihran, he at length arrived
in the religious academy near to Bahá'u'lláh's home. His message was rejected
contemptuously by the teacher there; however a student, overhearing with
rapture from the neighbouring room, came to him secretly at midnight. Enquiring
after the sons of Mirza Buzurg, the student related the extraordinary character
of Bahá'u'lláh, His virtuous life, high attainments, loving-kindness and
liberality, His sole occupation being to cheer the disconsolate and feed the
hungry, befriending all, roaming the woods and delighting in the beauty of the
countryside. Mulla Husayn, with an eagerness and satisfaction that baffled the
student, entrusted him with a scroll wrapped in a piece of cloth, to be handed
to Bahá'u'lláh the next day at the hour of dawn.
The student approached the house of Bahá'u'lláh, and recognized
His brother Mirza Musa standing at the gate. He went into the house and soon
reappeared bringing a message of welcome, ushering him into His presence. The
student presented the scroll to Mirza Musa, who laid it before Bahá'u'lláh. Bidding
both be seated, He unfolded the scroll. Glancing at its contents, He began to
read aloud certain passages, enrapturing the room with the sweetness of His
voice. After reading a page of the scroll, He turned to His brother and declared
that whoever believed in the Qur'an, yet hesitated for a moment to realise those
soul-stirring words were from the same Source, had indeed strayed afar. Saying no
more, he sent the student back to Mulla Husayn with a rare loaf of Russian
sugar and a package of tea, with the expression of His appreciation and love.
Mulla Husayn received the gifts with bowed head, and
fervently kissed his hand and eyes and expressed words of overwhelming joy,
such that the student was quite bewildered. As Mulla Husayn left a few days
later, he bade the student keep everything secret within his heart, and pray
the Almighty protect Bahá'u'lláh, that the Tree of the Divine Call would grow
and flourish, and overshadow all mankind.
Bahá'u'lláh Arises
Bahá'u'lláh arose, consecrating His life to the service of
the Call of the Báb. At first He called upon His relatives and connections, and
then fearlessly identified Himself with the new teachings, distinguishing
Himself by the remarkable part He played in their diffusion. He flung aside
every consideration of fame, wealth and position; neither the taunts and
threats of friends and enemies could induce Him from championing the Cause. No
effort or sacrifice was too great in His devotion for the Faith that inspired
Him. So highly did Bahá'u'lláh's fellow-disciples esteem Him, they refrained
from mentioning His name, and simply called Him in the plural as 'They'.
Summary
Guiding the Faith through its break from Islám, receiving
torturous punishments, arrests, persecution, and abuse, assisting the Bábis
through their trials, and in the persecution that followed the martyrdom of the
Báb, imprisoned for execution in an underground reservoir in crushing chains of
gargantuan weight; riding safely through the extermination of the Báb's supporters,
Bahá'u'lláh arose like a Sun that shone its rays across the world amidst a life
of continual tribulation and exile, until His ultimate triumph over all that ranged
itself against Him.
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──────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────
Birth and Childhood of Baha'u'llah
David Merrick
2008
Early Life of Bahá'u'lláh
Father, Family, Lineage, Location
Looking north onto the shore of the Caspian Sea, and
nestling against the protective rocky peaks to the south, lies the small
village of Takur. This village is the ancestral home of one of the most ancient,
wealthy and renowned families of Nur, a family honoured by its descent from Abraham,
Zoroaster and the ancient Prophets, and through the last Zoroastrian King of
Persia. Many members of this family held important Government posts, both in
the Civil and the Military.
It was to this illustrious family that Bahá'u'lláh's father
was born, and named 'Abbas. As an adult, he was married, and lived within the
Persian Capital of Tihran, where he was a favoured minister of the Crown.
Father Named 'Mirza Buzurg'
Bahá'u'lláh's father was distinguished by a special name
from the Shah himself. One day the Shah was marvelling at a masterpiece of beautiful
writing, wondering if anyone alive could ever create its equal. Bahá'u'lláh's
father was suggested, and was sent for. Challenged to match its excellence and
beauty, he copied this work of art, adding his own lines, and after
illuminating them, he brought the new masterpiece as a present to the Shah.
The Shah was overwhelmed with admiration, and he issued a
royal decree giving Bahá'u'lláh's father the name of 'Mirza Buzurg'; he also gave
him a robe of honour, which he had himself worn, and exempted his entire
village from tax. A few years later, Bahá'u'lláh's father was made a
high-ranking advisor to the Shah's own son, and so he prospered in this and many
other ways.
Birth of Bahá'u'lláh
Bahá'u'lláh's father had seven wives, and a great many
children through them. At dawn, on the second day of the Islamic Year, on 12
November 1817, his wife Khadijih Khanum gave birth to the eldest of her surviving
sons.
At that very same moment, Shaykh Ahmad, who announced the
coming of the Báb and Bahá'u'lláh, was found fallen upon his face, repeating in
wrapt devotion the words, 'God is Great!' and saying, 'That which I have been
announcing to you is now revealed. At this very hour the light of the Promised
One has broken, and is shedding illumination upon the world.'
Given the name of Husayn-'Ali, as the Child grew from an
infant into adulthood, He astounded all who encountered Him, and would later,
as Bahá'u'lláh, change the face of history.
Infancy
From His birth, Bahá'u'lláh never cried, always remaining in
a most remarkable state of peacefulness. His mother was completely astonished,
and before long it became obvious to everyone around, that her Child was entirely
different from other children.
Residence
Bahá'u'lláh was brought up on the outskirts of Tihran, close
to a moat. Part of every year, typically in the summer months, He would spend
in His father's great mansion in their ancestral village of Takur, on the
shores of the sea.
In a prominent place of this mansion, there still survives
the inscription of Bahá'u'lláh's father, recording, "When you reach the
threshold of the Beloved, say 'Yea'; for 'Peace' and 'Upon Thee' find no place there.
This is the vale of Love, pause your steps; this is holy ground, cast off your shoes!"
Character and Qualities
Bahá'u'lláh as a child displayed a purity of character quite
extraordinary, and a wonderful, innate wisdom and knowledge.
He greatly loved outdoor life, spending most of His time in
the garden or fields.
Extremely kind and generous, He had an incredible power of
attraction, which was felt by all. People always crowded around Him, children
were devoted to Him, and the ministers and people of the Court would gather about
Him.
Schooling
As He grew up, Bahá'u'lláh desired no schooling. He received
a little customary education at home, in riding, using a sword or gun, good
manners, calligraphy, poetries, and the ability to read out the words of the Qur'an.
Despite a lack education, Bahá'u'lláh shone forth in wisdom
and ability, and all who knew Bahá'u'lláh were astonished. It was usual for
them to say, that such a child will not live beyond maturity.
Letter [5]
To His aunt, when still so young in years, the Child
Bahá'u'lláh wrote this remarkable and most literate letter:-
"He is the Well-Beloved! God willing you are abiding
restfully beneath the canopy of Divine mercy, and the tabernacle of His bounty.
Although to outward seeming, I am little and cannot write, yet because this Illiterate
One is clinging to the Divine Lote tree, He can read without knowledge and
write without being taught. And this fact is clear and evident in the spiritual
realm to those endowed with insight. Those who are outside have been, and still
are, unaware of this mystery."
Dream of Swimming in an Ocean [5-6]
One night Bahá'u'lláh appeared in a dream, which was so very
vivid, it awakened its dreamer.
Bahá'u'lláh was in a garden; great birds flew overhead; they
attacked Him, yet they were powerless to harm Him. He was bathing in the sea, and
began to swim in a vast, limitless ocean; His body shone out, and illuminated
the sea! Above the waters, His long, jet-black locks, stood forth, floating in
great profusion above the waves in all directions. Large numbers of fish
gathered around Him, each fish holding fast to the end of a hair with its mouth.
There were every kind of fish: large fish, small fish, white and black: and wherever
He swam, they followed the light of His face. Such a vast number of fish clinging
so tightly, caused no damage: not even a hair was lost from His head. Free and
unrestrained, Bahá'u'lláh moved above the waters, with all the fish following
His light.
His father was stunned by this dream, and with the Shah's
permission, laid it before his well-known seer. The seer, swept away with amazement,
explained how the garden and its birds, and the limitless ocean with its fish, were
the world of existence, and its people, and that Bahá'u'lláh would single-handedly
triumph over it, unhindered and alone; yet, he declared himself quite unable to
imagine how it could ever come to pass. So His father took him to see Bahá'u'lláh,
who was just a Child of five, and his praise and admiration of Bahá'u'lláh was
so profuse, and so great his concern that He be protected, that His father became
yet more passionately devoted to Him.
Short in Size [7]
As Bahá'u'lláh was walking one day, and His parents were
watching Him, His mother happened to comment upon His shortness. His father
immediately rejoined that such things had no importance: "Just look how
intelligent He is!" he said:- "What a wonderful mind He has!"
Tax Collector [7]
During His childhood, Bahá'u'lláh witnessed three
confrontations between His father, and a very unjust tax collector, who was cruelly
demanding payment. Incensed, Bahá'u'lláh, though merely seven, mounted His
horse, and rode for two days to Tihran, where He sought the dismissal of the arrogant
tax collector. He succeeded in obtaining the necessary papers ordering his
dismissal, and returned successful to His parents.
Banu Qurayza [12]
The story of the execution for treason of a large number of
Jews, one day came before Bahá'u'lláh's eyes, and He was so moved, so profoundly
filled with sadness and grief. Yet He felt surging before Him the limitless
ocean of God's mercy and forgiveness, and He implored God to grant in the world
the establishment of unity and love.
Transfiguration [12]
A short while after, suddenly before dawn, Bahá'u'lláh was
overcome by a transfiguration, lasting for twelve days, unceasingly, bringing
glad-tidings of the highest success and joy. Entirely transforming His manners,
thought and speech, from thenafter the ocean of His words began to surge, and
the sun of assurance shone forth from Him.
Skill and Renown [13]
By the time he was thirteen, Bahá'u'lláh was renowned for
His ability to discuss any matter, and resolve any problem presented before Him.
He was always courteous and patient, and only the disrespectful
reference to a Messenger or Chosen One of God was able to arouse His
displeasure; even then, He would address the offender with kindliness and calm.
He appeared before large gatherings in discussions with the
leading clergy, resolving intricate religious questions, whilst everyone paid deep
attention and interest, and His explanations became the authoritative word on every
matter.
Despite these abilities, the kulah on His head and the locks
flowing over His shoulders meant no one ever suspected a person of such a class
would become the fountain of a new Truth and revitalising Spirit.
Political Unambition
Bahá'u'lláh was held in the highest regard by all levels of
society, yet He showed no desire for the splendid ranks and positions opening
out everywhere before Him; the Prime Minister himself had even offered Him a
post in the government. All these very things His ancestors pursued and
cultivated, and His relatives held out great hopes for Him. His lack of
interest in such things of importance was therefore a cause of great surprise
and frequent comment.
Generosity
Whilst declining such wealthy position and income, Bahá'u'lláh
showed astonishing generosity. The doors of His home were open to all, and He
always had many guests, giving abundantly to all in need. He was a refuge for
every weak one, a shelter for the fearful one, kind to the destitute, and
lenient and loving to all creatures. This unbounded generosity amazed everyone,
as He did not use it to promote His position; rather, it was clear to everyone
that such free generosity would quickly cause His wealth to disappear entirely.
The more spiritually-minded saw in these acts His attraction to the celestial realm
of God and a great destiny to come.
Turbaned Divines on Gabriel
One day, two hugely-turbaned divines were instructing some
ladies hidden behind a curtain. They were questioning whether the angel Gabriel
was superior to the first Imam's servant; and, whether the brother of the martyred
third Imam was superior to a certain companion of Muhammad. Bahá'u'lláh was
astonished at the tone of their debate, saying that since the Holy Spirit
descended upon the heart of Muhammad through Gabriel, then even the first Imam
himself could not remotely reach Him!
Dream of the Promised One (Qa'im)
Distantly related to Bahá'u'lláh, there was a famous
religious doctor who taught a thousand scholars, and he would present them with
complex questions to resolve.
It was Bahá'u'lláh's custom to stop by. One morning after prayer,
this religious doctor told Bahá'u'lláh's mother of a most impressive and
powerful dream he had experienced. In this dream, he found himself outside a
house. No one was allowed to enter, and the door-keeper told him that the Promised
One was inside, in a secret meeting with Bahá'u'lláh. He was very surprised that
the son of a government advisor should be so privileged, instead of someone with
a religious calling like himself; after a little reflection, he decided that this
privilege of a secret meeting with the Promised One must have been given Bahá'u'lláh
by virtue of His distant kinship to himself!
Daughters of Fatimih and Mary
On another occasion, Bahá'u'lláh was sitting with this same
man, along with other scholars and divines. They asked Bahá'u'lláh to resolve a
question, as they had been unable to answer it themselves with any satisfaction.
How could Fatimih, they wondered, be the best of all women, except the one born
of Mary, when Mary had no daughter? Bahá'u'lláh replied that this was simply in
praise of there being no woman comparable to Fatimih. The teacher held a stern
silence, and the next day rebuked his disciples for letting an unturbaned youth
solve a matter which they, with all their years of training, were unable to resolve.
Dream of the Trunks
On another night, this same doctor had a second dream, in
which he came across a room full of trunks. He was told the trunks belonged to Bahá'u'lláh,
and when he opened one, he found it packed with books. All the lines of the
books were studded with gems, shining so brilliantly, that he awoke out of his
dream.
Jesus Christ at Door
One day, Bahá'u'lláh was present in the gathering of a
famous Sufi whom the Shah admired immensely. The sufi began boasting that if his
servant brought him news that Jesus was at the door asking to see him, he was
so detached he would feel no wish to go. Many kept silent; others murmured flatteringly
their assent. Bahá'u'lláh alone spoke up, turning to the boaster, and challenging
him. "The Shah is very devoted to you; however, if the chief executioner and
ten men arrived at the door and told you the monarch wanted to see you, would
you be calm, or troubled?" The sufi paused for a while, and admitted he
would feel rather anxious. Bahá'u'lláh's authoritative statement, that he
should therefore not make such claims, left him lost for a reply.
Puppet Show [13]
When Bahá'u'lláh was still a child, His father arranged for
one of His older brothers to marry. The festivities lasted for seven days and
nights, and on the final day, there was a puppet show. A large number of
princes, dignitaries, and notables gathered from the capital for the occasion,
and Bahá'u'lláh was sitting in one of the upper rooms of the building, watching.
A tent was pitched in the courtyard, and from it soon some tiny human-like
figures emerged, crying, "His Majesty is coming! Arrange the seats at
once!" Other figures came out, engaged in sweeping and sprinkling of water,
and then the chief town crier bade the people assemble for the audience with
the king. Several groups began to arrive and take their places, the first wearing
hats and sashes, the second wielding battleaxes, and the third of footmen and
executioners with batons. Finally, the king himself appeared in majesty and
splendour, crowned with a royal diadem, bearing himself with unspeakable superiority
and grandeur. Advancing with pauses, he proceeded with great seriousness to his
throne.
As he sat upon his throne, a surge of shots were fired, and trumpets
sounded; the king and the tent were enveloped in a great pall of smoke. As it cleared,
the king was seen upon his throne surrounded by a suite of ministers, princes,
and dignitaries standing to attention. A thief was brought before the king, and
ordered to be beheaded. The chief executioner cut off his head, with blood
flowing from him. News was brought in of a rebellion, and the king reviewed and
despatched several regiments and artillery. Cannons began booming from behind
the tent, and the battle was announced.
The royal scene came to an end; the curtain was drawn down, and
twenty minutes later, a man emerged from behind the tent carrying a box under
his arm.
Bahá'u'lláh asked him about the box, and he replied that all
the lavish display was now contained within that box. Bahá'u'lláh experienced
the world as an impermanent and inconsequential puppet display, and marvelled how
men should pride themselves upon the vain and fleeting things around them.
Asiyih Khanum [15]
When Bahá'u'lláh was nearly fifteen, His elder sister was married.
The man she married had a younger, only sister, whose name was Asiyih Khanum. She
was an endearing, vivacious and very beautiful young woman, tall, slender and
graceful, with dark blue eyes and a wonderful intelligence. She was most considerate
and gentle with everybody, her actions overflowing with loving-kindness springing
from a pure heart. Her very presence enfolded everyone in the fragrance of her
good spirits. When He was eighteen, Bahá'u'lláh's sister asked their father if
he would seek Asiyih for Bahá'u'lláh: and so their marriage took place in
October 1835.
Bahá'u'lláh later named her Navvab, and bestowed upon her
the unique distinction of being His everlasting companion in all the worlds of
God.
Asiyih came from a noble and wealthy family; her wedding
treasures were so extensive, forty mules were needed to carry them to His home.
For six months before the marriage, a jeweller worked at her home, preparing jewellery
- even the buttons of her garments were gold, set with precious stones. These
two marriages roused much interest in the land, the people seeing great wealth adding
to more wealth.
Father and Mother of the Poor
Yet the wealth they inherited, they spent on charitable ends.
Taking part as little as possible in State functions, social ceremonies, and
the luxurious habits of high-placed and wealthy families, they treated worldly
pleasures of no worth, and occupied themselves instead in caring for the poor,
and for all who were unhappy or troubled. From their doors nobody was ever turned
away, and a welcoming table was spread for all who might come. The poor women flowed
constantly to Asiyih, pouring out their stories of woe, and were comforted and
consoled by her love and helpfulness.
Bahá'u'lláh was called "the Father of the Poor," whilst
Asiyih was named "the Mother of Consolation."
Bahá'u'lláh told to warn Father [17]
The Shah passed away, and his grandson took up the throne. Through
the good friendship of the Prime Minister, Bahá'u'lláh's father became both governor
and tax collector over a large and rebellious region, taming the unruly
inhabitants with such excellence and justice, that he was commended by the Shah.
A vain man persuaded the Shah to put this friend treacherously to death, and then
rose immediately to the high position of Prime Minister himself. Bahá'u'lláh's
father could not hide his feelings of horror and disgust, and on hearing a
rumour that the Shah had replaced him, expressed his delight in a letter to a
Prince, who then showed the letter to him. Infuriated, the Prime Minister sent
for Bahá'u'lláh and showed him his father's letter, asking why he had deserved
this. Bahá'u'lláh held silence. One of those present took the letter, and trying
to smooth matters away, stated it was a forgery. The Prime Minister exclaimed
this was impossible, since no one else could produce such a beautiful
calligraphy and style of writing. Still Bahá'u'lláh kept silent, and the Prime
Minister advised Him to write to His father to ensure it should not happen
again. However, firm in eliminating his chief rivals, he retaliated as soon as
he was able, and had Bahá'u'lláh's father dismissed from the governorship, stopped
his annual allowance, and induced his last wife, the daughter of the previous
Shah, whom he had married a few years earlier, to divorce him. In dire
financial straits and with such a very large family, Bahá'u'lláh's father was
driven into selling part of his properties and mortgaging others, including those
in Tihran where he and his family resided, whilst flooding destroyed the better
part of the mansion he had built and richly furnished in Takur. Some while
later he bought them back through Bahá'u'lláh.
Though His father was brought to ruin by such powerful
enemies, yet they continued to hold Bahá'u'lláh in very high esteem.
Father's Woes - Divorce, Reselling and Resettlement
With the backing of the Prime Minister and her powerful
nephew, his last wife forced through the divorce with such a heavy settlement that
he could not pay it immediately: so she had Bahá'u'lláh's father imprisoned in
his own house, and set men to beat him daily and torture him to extract the money
from him. At last, he was obliged to sell again his houses and furnishings in
the capital for a negligible sum, leading to the separation of Bahá'u'lláh from
His brother, who went to live near the entrance of a Mosque, whilst Bahá'u'lláh
rented a place to live near the Gate of Shimiran, near the theological college
where Mulla Husayn would stay on his journey, carrying the message of the Báb
to Tihran.
Bahá'u'lláh Living near Gate of Shimiran
Bahá'u'lláh took with Him, His mother, wife, other
step-mothers and the other brothers and sisters, and remained in this residence
for the remaining years of His stay in Iran. The children of Bahá'u'lláh - 'Abdu'l-Bahá,
Bahiyyih Khanum and Mirza Mihdi - were all born to Asiyih Khanum in this rented
accommodation.
Regaining Houses
The storms eventually subsided, and Bahá'u'lláh's father attempted
to regain the houses auctioned off for such a negligible sum. The illegality of
the sale was announced by some noted divines; however, no reparation was ever made.
Passing of Father [22]
He made plans to retire to 'Iraq; however, death intervened,
and Bahá'u'lláh's father passed away, in 1839. He was carried on to 'Iraq, and remained
remembered highly for his calligraphy. Bahá'u'lláh, though still a youth, was left
responsible for His younger brothers and sisters, and the management of the
extensive family estates.
Position Offered
With His father's passing, the Government was eager for
Bahá'u'lláh to succeed His father in the Ministry. Bahá'u'lláh declined this
custom, and so the Prime Minister left Him to pursue the higher-minded aims He
clearly sought, and continued to show Bahá'u'lláh the utmost consideration, visiting
Him in His home, and addressing Him as his own son.
Bahá'u'lláh's Youthful Position
Receiving such continuous marks of consideration and favour
from the Prime Minister, despite the great alienation from His father, his
successor and other ministers became filled with envy and resented the
superiority which Bahá'u'lláh, a mere youth, was clearly given, and they expected
and feared the time He would succeed His father.
Jealousy
The high regard of the Prime Minister for Bahá'u'lláh meant
he would inevitably come to seek Bahá'u'lláh's support for one of his intrigues.
The uprightness of Bahá'u'lláh's dealings with the Prime Minister, His skill in
handling such a confrontation and His faith in Divine protection, ensured that
He came through unscathed.
Purchase of Estate Thwarted
One day, the Prime Minister was passing through a village
belonging to Bahá'u'lláh. He was so impressed by its charm, beauty and abundant
water that he decided to become its owner. He summoned Bahá'u'lláh to purchase
the village for him immediately. Bahá'u'lláh replied that He willingly would have
done so had it been wholly His, but other inhabitants shared the village with Him,
and He would need to have their approval. So the Prime Minister began to plan an
underhand means to gain the property. Bahá'u'lláh, with the consent of everyone
concerned, transferred the village to the Shah's sister, who had often desired
to become its owner. This made the Prime Minister furious, and he attempted to
seize it forcibly, claiming he had purchased it. His representatives were
severely rebuked by those of the Shah's sister. He complained to the Shah, who
had that same night learnt of the matter. The Shah demanded the Prime Minister give
up the idea, and so he in turn summoned Bahá'u'lláh and strove by every means to
discredit His name. Bahá'u'lláh responded vigorously to every charge, and
succeeded in establishing His innocence. In a fury, the Prime Minister declared
how Bahá'u'lláh must be plotting against him, as seen by the number and variety
of His daily guests. Bahá'u'lláh made it clear how out of the abundance of His
heart, He was sharing His bread with his fellow men. The Prime Minister dared
not reply, and though supported by the religious and civil powers of Persia, he
found himself defeated in every contest he ventured against Bahá'u'lláh.
Other Encounters Summarised
On various other occasions, Bahá'u'lláh's innocence was
established over His opponents' attacks, and these triumphs enhanced His
position and spread abroad His fame. All men high and low marvelled at His
miraculous success in emerging unscathed from the most perilous encounters.
Nothing short of Divine protection, they felt, could have ensured His safety.
Not once did Bahá'u'lláh submit to the arrogance, greed, and treachery of those
around, despite the gravest perils. Whilst constantly associating with the
highest religious and ministerial figures of the land, He would fearlessly
champion the cause of truth before them and their gatherings, asserting the
rights of the downtrodden, defending the weak and protecting the innocent.
Message of the Báb [26]
Immediately following the Call of God proclaimed by the Báb,
Mulla Husayn set off at the Báb's own bidding and sealed with His power and
protection. Seeking that incomparable light hidden in Tihran, he at length arrived
in the religious academy near to Bahá'u'lláh's home. His message was rejected
contemptuously by the teacher there; however a student, overhearing with
rapture from the neighbouring room, came to him secretly at midnight. Enquiring
after the sons of Mirza Buzurg, the student related the extraordinary character
of Bahá'u'lláh, His virtuous life, high attainments, loving-kindness and
liberality, His sole occupation being to cheer the disconsolate and feed the
hungry, befriending all, roaming the woods and delighting in the beauty of the
countryside. Mulla Husayn, with an eagerness and satisfaction that baffled the
student, entrusted him with a scroll wrapped in a piece of cloth, to be handed
to Bahá'u'lláh the next day at the hour of dawn.
The student approached the house of Bahá'u'lláh, and recognized
His brother Mirza Musa standing at the gate. He went into the house and soon
reappeared bringing a message of welcome, ushering him into His presence. The
student presented the scroll to Mirza Musa, who laid it before Bahá'u'lláh. Bidding
both be seated, He unfolded the scroll. Glancing at its contents, He began to
read aloud certain passages, enrapturing the room with the sweetness of His
voice. After reading a page of the scroll, He turned to His brother and declared
that whoever believed in the Qur'an, yet hesitated for a moment to realise those
soul-stirring words were from the same Source, had indeed strayed afar. Saying no
more, he sent the student back to Mulla Husayn with a rare loaf of Russian
sugar and a package of tea, with the expression of His appreciation and love.
Mulla Husayn received the gifts with bowed head, and
fervently kissed his hand and eyes and expressed words of overwhelming joy,
such that the student was quite bewildered. As Mulla Husayn left a few days
later, he bade the student keep everything secret within his heart, and pray
the Almighty protect Bahá'u'lláh, that the Tree of the Divine Call would grow
and flourish, and overshadow all mankind.
Bahá'u'lláh Arises
Bahá'u'lláh arose, consecrating His life to the service of
the Call of the Báb. At first He called upon His relatives and connections, and
then fearlessly identified Himself with the new teachings, distinguishing
Himself by the remarkable part He played in their diffusion. He flung aside
every consideration of fame, wealth and position; neither the taunts and
threats of friends and enemies could induce Him from championing the Cause. No
effort or sacrifice was too great in His devotion for the Faith that inspired
Him. So highly did Bahá'u'lláh's fellow-disciples esteem Him, they refrained
from mentioning His name, and simply called Him in the plural as 'They'.
Summary
Guiding the Faith through its break from Islám, receiving
torturous punishments, arrests, persecution, and abuse, assisting the Bábis
through their trials, and in the persecution that followed the martyrdom of the
Báb, imprisoned for execution in an underground reservoir in crushing chains of
gargantuan weight; riding safely through the extermination of the Báb's supporters,
Bahá'u'lláh arose like a Sun that shone its rays across the world amidst a life
of continual tribulation and exile, until His ultimate triumph over all that ranged
itself against Him.
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