Life of the Báb: His Declaration
Mullá Husayn was on a quest. He had studied religion for many years and believed it was time for the next Messenger of God to appear. When his teacher said it was time to search far and wide for the Promised One, he set out to find Him. Guided only by his heart, Mullá Husayn, along with his brother and nephew, traveled throughout Persia (now Iran). On May 22, 1844, their search took them to the city of Shíráz.
Mullá Husayn told his companions to enter without him, agreeing to join them later. As he stood alone outside the city gates, he saw a radiant young man wearing a green turban. Though they had never met, the man approached and gave him a loving smile and hug.
His name was ‘Alí-Muhammad, and He invited Mullá Husayn to His home to rest after the long journey. Mullá Husayn didn’t realize then that his search was over. He had found the Báb (“the Gate”)—the next Messenger of God. At first, Mullá Husayn declined the invitation, saying his companions would expect him. But the Báb gently convinced him to accept, so he agreed, hoping it might help him on his quest.
Once inside, Mullá Husayn was moved by the kindness of his host. The Báb served him tea, poured water to clean his hands and feet, and invited him to stay for prayers.
The Báb then asked him how he would recognize the new Messenger of God. Mullá Husayn described the characteristics his teacher had told him to search for. Among other traits, the Promised One would be a descendant of Muhammad between 20 and 30 years old and would have exceptional knowledge without studying.
After a pause, the Báb declared in a vibrant voice, “Behold, all these signs are manifest in Me!” Then He revealed holy verses and answered spiritual questions that Mullá Husayn had carried in his heart. Mullá Husayn sat in awe as the words flowed from the Báb, uninterrupted, with a powerful force.
Mullá Husayn described the Báb’s declaration as a thunderbolt—dazzling and overwhelming, stirring his soul with joy and excitement. The Báb said, “This night, this very hour will, in the days to come, be celebrated as one of the greatest and most significant of all festivals.”
Mullá Husayn left, filled with wonder. He spent the rest of his life sharing the Báb’s teachings. He helped people prepare for the next Messenger of God, Bahá’u’lláh, Who would bring a message of peace for the entire world.
Photo © Bahá’í International Community
Bahá’í Faith544 Bábí Faith32 The Báb74 Mulla Husayn15 Persia50 Holy Days37 Perseverance66