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Section Two: Naw-Rúz of 1850 in Yazd and its Aftermath
An important tradition of Naw-Rúz is that people visit each other’s residences and offer salutations on the New Year. Visits are prioritized based on rank and importance, so the elders are visited first. Among the officials and people of power, the hierarchy of visits and celebrations are of great importance. Because of his high rank and status, the leading ulamá and notables of Yazd came to Vahíd’s residence on the day of Naw-Rúz of 1850 to offer their best wishes. Vahíd had prepared a sumptuous feast for them. It so happened that year, that the anniversary of the Báb’s Declaration fell on the same day as Naw-Rúz.11_ACT12
The Naw-Rúz Gathering at Vahíd’s home in Yazd
The visitors who came to Vahíd’s home in Yazd on that Naw-Rúz included several ulamá who were envious of Vahíd and strongly opposed the Cause of the Báb. Leading this pack was Navváb-i-Radaví, who was exceptionally malicious and conniving. He wanted to somehow bring down Vahíd in front of everyone by hinting at his being a Bábí. He said in front of everyone:
The Sháh’s imperial banquet can scarcely hope to rival the sumptuous repast you have spread before us. I suspect that in addition to this national festival which today we are celebrating, you commemorate another one besides it.
Vahíd responded with a bold and sarcastic response, which provoked the laughter of all present and some even applauded. Vahíd then took this opportunity to proclaim the Cause of the Báb and to demonstrate the validity of its claims. His knowledge and eloquence were such that not one of the opposers in the gathering dared say anything.
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