The Báb Returns to Shíráz6

View of section of the interior of the Masjid-i-Vakíl in Shíráz where the Báb addressed the congregation. The bottom of the steps on which He stood and addressed the congregation can be seen on the left side of the photo. Archival photo.

The Báb then ascended to the top of the staircase, embraced Shaykh Abú-Turáb, and, descending to the floor of the masjid, joined the congregation for the observance of the Friday prayer. Shaykh Abú-Turáb however was concerned about certain fanatical ill-wishers in the crowd, and quietly requested the Báb to retire and offer His prayers at home, which He did accompanied by His middle uncle who also was present.

“Open your inner eye, that ye may behold the celestial Fire“

The Báb had made it clear at the Masjid-i-Vakíl that He was not a representative of the Qáim or the gate to such a person, and that He did not reject the Prophet Muhammad or the station of Imám ‘Alí. He knew that the people were not receptive and therefore had not said anything else. Most of these people were so spiritually blind and fanatical, that they could not even conceive that the Báb was actually saying that He was far above being a representative of the Qáim. He was the Qáim Himself and a new independent Messenger of God ushering in a new Dispensation.

However, for all the multitudes of the spiritually blind and deaf, there are always those exceptional souls who are spiritually alert. This was exemplified by a handful present at that memorable Friday at the Masjid-i-Vakíl. Nabíl recounts the story of six individuals, who were present that Friday, and even with this very brief public encounter with the Báb realized that He represented something special, and with further investigation came to full recognition of the Báb’s Station and Message.

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