Table of Contents
Prologue
In 1800, the world was vastly different from today. Life was harsh. Amenities like running water, electricity, or gas did not exist. Travel was primarily by foot, with only a privileged few able to afford horses, donkeys, or camels. Most people only knew life in their own village. The fastest form of long-distance communication was the carrier pigeon. Most people were illiterate and feudal systems, with lords and aristocrats, kept many in a state of servitude without many rights. Religion played a significant role in people’s lives, but that was mainly by blind adherence to traditional rituals and following whatever the clergy [the religious leaders] told them. Independent thought was often deemed heretical, perpetuating superstition and ignorance, contributing to a worldwide dark era.
These conditions were particularly marked in the Middle East. It was within this dark paradigm that a few select individuals in the land of Persia [now known as Írán], underwent a profound spiritual awakening and change. And as with all other great change, the initial steps were not obvious to all. It began with two Awakeners.
1 For a brief overview of basic tenets of Islam and the ShĂ’a see Appendix: Brief Background on ShĂ’a Islam.