Bahaism and Its Claims: A Study of the Religion Promulgated by Baha Ullah and Abdul BahaWilson, Samuel Graham
Religion
Bahaism and Its Claims: A Study of the Religion Promulgated by Baha Ullah and Abdul Baha
Wilson, Samuel Graham
Bahai Faith -- Controversial literature
To represent him (the Bab) as simply the forerunner of Baha is an
historic falsehood. It is another to pretend that the religion of the
Bab was universalized by Baha Ullah.--_Ibid., Vol. III, p. v._
The Bab did not consider himself as the herald or forerunner of
another dispensation, as a John the Baptist to Christ. This is devoid
of historic foundation. In his own eyes as in those of his followers,
M. Ali Mohammed inaugurated a new prophetic cycle and brought a new
revelation which abrogated the Koran. He declared that he is not the
last Manifestation. There would be a greater, whom he calls "Him whom
God would manifest," but the Bab expected that the next manifestation
would be separated from his own by an interval such as had separated
previous dispensations. Possibly the "Bayan" indicates 1511 or 2001
years as the interval.--_Professor Browne, "Introduction to Mirza
Jani's History."_
The moral conduct of the founders of a religion, especially one that
requires trust in the person of its author, is a necessary subject of
investigation. The conduct of the immediate followers is not to the same
degree a subject of criticism. From one point of view it is no argument
against the truth of Bahaism that Bahais fail to live up to its precepts
and principles, for this can be said of all religions. But the claims of
Bahai writers make it necessary to consider their conduct. They boast of
superior exemplary character and make this a proof of Bahaism. Hence it
is necessary to show the groundlessness of their assertions. In the
following review, which covers several chapters, the conduct of Baha,
Abdul Baha and their early followers is treated together. The claim made
for the founders is nothing short of blessed perfection. For the
disciples, it is one of superlative excellence. Myron Phelps says:[380]
"This faith does not expend itself on beautiful and unfruitful theories,
but has a vital and effective power to mould life towards the very
highest ideals of human character--as exemplified in the life of Abbas
and the salient characteristics of his followers." The Bahai historians
say:[381] "They are remarkable only for their charity, kindliness,
purity, godliness, rectitude, sincerity, integrity, generosity, chastity
and strict avoidance of all forbidden things." "In their conduct,
action, morality and demeanour was no place for objection.... People
have confidence in their trustworthiness, faithfulness and godliness."
Abul Fazl[382] speaks of the supernatural character and morals of the
followers of Baha, who became universally celebrated for their just
characters, good conduct and excellent morals. So Remey:[383] "The
effect of this cause upon the lives of the peoples of every race and
religion leaves no doubt as to the divine source of its teachings."
Mirza Jani, speaking of the proofs the Babis gave to the Moslems,
says:[384] "We say, 'We have witnessed miracles on the part of this
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