spiritual growth, others faltered. Many are the reasons that a soul does not make it across the symbolic Bridge. Among those who failed to make it across were individuals who, despite their apparent knowledge and prominence, succumbed to the allure of power, allowing their egos to overshadow their spiritual aspirations, leading them down a path of darkness and corruption. Others did not make it across because they remained entrenched in their fear of change, clinging to their comfort zones, and resisting transformation. Ultimately for each individual, it is their particular choices that determine the outcome of the crossing for them.
Tragically, certain disciples not only failed to cross the Bridge but also actively opposed the emergence of the Promised One, leading others astray through their misguided teachings and actions. Such was the case with three individuals: Muhammad-KarĂm
, Hasan-i-Gawhar
and MĂrzá MuhĂt of Kirmán
, all of whom were among the prominent disciples of Siyiid Kázim, and all attempted to grab the leadership role of the Shaykhi movement after Siyyid Kázim’s death.
88ACT1
The first of these, Muhammad-KarĂm (also known as Muhammad-KarĂm Khán-i-KirmánĂ
), was self-centered and egotistical, and attempted to seize power from Siyyid Kázim even when the Siyyid was alive. Shaykh Abú-Turáb
, who was married to Mullá Husayn’s sister, and a close disciple of Siyyid Kázim,
89ACT1 recounted this story about Muhammad-KarĂm:
One day, I was alone in the library with Siyyid Kázim, when an attendant of Muhammad-KarĂm arrived with a book. Muhammad-KarĂm had been making arrangements to go to Kirmán and establish a Shaykhi school there. His attendant presented the book to Siyyid Kázim on behalf of his master, requesting him to read it and signify his approval by signing it. Siyyid Kázim briefly glanced through the book and returned it to the attendant with these words: “Tell your master that he, better than anyone else, can estimate the value of his own work.” When the attendant left, Siyyid Kázim said with great sadness: “Accursed be he! For years he has associated with me, and now he has arranged with several self-seeking other hypocrites to establish himself in Kirman, and after I am gone to take over my position. He will try and even go against the Promised One, but I assure you that eventually he will fail. The
87 Dawn-Breakers Chapter 2, p39
88 Dawn-Breakers Chapter 2, p39 footnote 1. NabĂl describes how Shaykh AbĂş-Turáb becomes a BábĂ and eventually is imprisoned in the prison of SĂyáh-Chál in Tihrán and dies a martyr [Dawn-Breakers Chapter 2, p40].
Table of Contents
