Martyrdom of the Bab Date: July 9
Martyrdom of the Bab is observed by followers of the Bahai religion.
One of the two central figures in founding the Bahai religion was Siyyid `Alí Muḥammad Shírází. On July 9, 1850, Siyyid `Alí Muḥammad Shírází was executed in the town square in Tabriz, Iran.
Martyrdom of the Bab History
Bab declared that he was a messenger of God and his mission was to prepare the way of the Promised One. According to his revelations, Bab said that the Promised One would unite all religions and establish a new age of peace and prosperity. During his travels, he attracted thousands of people as followers to the Bahai religion. Many of these followers who lived in Iran were persecuted and killed. The Bab’s teachings became the foundation for the Bahai religion.
As reported to the British Secretary for Foreign Affairs, under Queen Victoria’s rule, Sir Justin Shiel wrote, “When the smoke and dust cleared away after the volley, Báb was not to be seen, and the populace proclaimed that he had ascended to the skies. The balls had broken the ropes by which he was bound but he was dragged from the recess where, after some search he was discovered and shot.”
Martyrdom of the Bab Traditions and Activities
His remains were entombed on Mount Carmel and his shrine is one of the most famous in Israel. This day is one of the nine holy days that followers observe. Bahai observers do not work on this day and they spend the day in prayer.
