A Global Commemoration
On May 23, 2025, Bahá'í communities worldwide will observe the 181st anniversary of the Declaration of the Báb, whose name translates to 'The Gate' in Arabic. He is recognized as the precursor to Bahá'u'lláh and the Prophet-Herald of the Bahá'í Faith.
The original event occurred on May 23, 1844, but the celebration will commence approximately two hours and eleven minutes after sunset on May 22, 2025.
In the mid-19th century, a tumultuous era in global history, a young merchant emerged with a transformative message aimed at uplifting humanity. Amidst the moral decline in Iran, his teachings sparked hope and enthusiasm, quickly drawing thousands of followers.
Remarkably, until the Báb's declaration on May 23, 1844, the speed of communication and transportation had remained unchanged since ancient times, limited to the pace of a swift horse, despite the advent of steam locomotives.
On the same day, twelve hours after the Báb's significant announcement, American scientist Samuel Morse transmitted the first message via electromagnetic waves, stating, 'What Hath God Wrought.' This event coincided with the Báb's revelation, symbolizing a pivotal moment in human communication.
The Báb's message emphasized spiritual and moral reform, advocating for the rights of women and the welfare of the impoverished, marking a revolutionary approach to spiritual renewal.
The Declaration of the Báb is one of nine holy days observed by Bahá'ís, during which work is suspended.
Mulla Husayn, a Shi'a Muslim, was on a quest to find the Promised One foretold in religious texts. He described how the Báb delivered His message without pause until the Surih of Mulk was completed. Upon leaving, the Báb proclaimed, 'This night will be celebrated as one of the greatest festivals.'
From that moment, Siyyid Ali Muhammad became known as the Báb, and Mulla Husayn became His first disciple. The Báb taught that He was the herald of another Messenger, Bahá'u'lláh, whose revelation would surpass all previous ones.
Mulla Husayn, driven by his quest, traveled across Persia, eventually reaching Shiraz on May 22, 1844. There, he met the Báb, who invited him to rest and later revealed His identity as the Promised One.
Initially hesitant, Mulla Husayn accepted the invitation, leading to a profound encounter that would change his life forever.
Inside the Báb's home, Mulla Husayn was welcomed with kindness. The Báb served him tea and invited him to join in prayer. When asked how to recognize the new Messenger, Mulla Husayn described specific traits, to which the Báb responded, 'Behold, all these signs are manifest in Me!'
Mulla Husayn was overwhelmed by the Báb's declaration, which he likened to a thunderbolt, filling him with joy and excitement.
Mulla Husayn dedicated his life to spreading the Báb's teachings and preparing others for Bahá'u'lláh's arrival, who would later bring a message of global peace.
The anticipation of the Promised One had been building for decades, initiated by Shaykh Ahmad-i-Ahsá’i, whose teachings inspired a group of devoted followers, including Mulla Husayn.
The Bahá'í Faith emerged in 19th century Persia through the revelations of the Báb and Bahá'u'lláh, each establishing distinct religions. The Báb's mission was to prepare the way for Bahá'u'lláh, akin to John the Baptist's role before Jesus Christ.
Every May, millions of Bahá'ís commemorate the Báb's Declaration, which has become one of the most significant festivals in their faith.
In Bahá'í teachings, the number nine symbolizes completeness and perfection, particularly in relation to Bahá'u'lláh, the ninth manifestation of God. The Bahá'í calendar consists of 19 months, each with 19 days, emphasizing the importance of these numbers in their faith.
The Báb's teachings challenged the established norms of Persian society, advocating for a new world religion that would unite humanity.
The Báb's message emphasized the need for unity among all peoples, transcending divisions of race and nationality. His teachings continue to inspire Bahá'ís around the world to work towards a more harmonious future.
As the Báb stated, 'The cause of division among peoples, races, and nations will be obliterated.'
The Báb's legacy as a Messenger of God who heralded the coming of Bahá'u'lláh remains a cornerstone of the Bahá'í Faith. His teachings continue to resonate, emphasizing the importance of love, unity, and service to humanity.
