Table of Contents
Section Two: Tensions mount in Tihrán
Sayyáh returns to Chihríq via Tihrán
Having completed his pilgrimage to Fort Shaykh Tabarsí on behalf of the Báb, Sayyáh headed back to Chihríq but via Tihrán, where he stayed in Bahá’u’lláh’s home for a few days. Áqáy-i-Kalím [Mírzá Músá , Bahá’u’lláh’s brother] who received Sayyáh at the entrance of Bahá’u’lláh’s home relates:
It was the depth of winter when Sayyáh, returning from his pilgrimage, came to visit Bahá’u’lláh. Despite the cold and snow of a rigorous winter, he appeared attired in the garb of a dervish, poorly clad, barefooted, and dishevelled. His heart was set afire with the flame that pilgrimage had kindled. No sooner had Siyyid Yahyáy-i-Dárábí , surnamed Vahíd 13_ACT11, who was then a guest in the home of Bahá’u’lláh, been informed of the return of Sayyáh from the fort of Tabarsí, than he, oblivious of the pomp and circumstance to which a man of his position had been accustomed, rushed forward and flung himself at the feet of the pilgrim. Holding his legs, which had been covered with mud to the knees, in his arms, he kissed them devoutly. I was amazed that day at the many evidences of loving solicitude which Bahá’u’lláh evinced towards Vahíd. He showed him such favours as I had never seen Him extend to anyone. The manner of His conversation left no doubt in me that this same Vahíd would ere long distinguish himself by deeds no less remarkable than those which had immortalised the defenders of the fort of Tabarsí. 14_ACT11
Sayyáh himself describes his arrival and reception in Tihrán in these words:
Bahá’u’lláh overwhelmed me with His kindness. As to Vahíd, notwithstanding the eminence of his position, he invariably gave me preference over himself whenever in the presence of his Host. On the day of my arrival from Mázindarán, he went so far as to kiss my feet. I was amazed at the reception accorded me in that home. 15_ACT11 , 16_ACT11
432 / 803