This holy day marks the anniversary of the Declaration of the Bab, who on the evening of May 22, 1844, two hours after sunset, announced that He was a new Divine Messenger and that He had been sent to herald a new age for humanity . . . specifically to prepare the way for Baha'u'llah, the universal Messenger of God expected by people of all religions.
Our Christian readers will see the mission of The Bab (meaning “The Gate” in Arabic) as being similar to that of John the Baptist in Christian teachings . . . The Bab’s mission was to prepare the world for the coming of the Promised One (Baha'u'llah)
The Declaration of the Bab is one of nine holy days on which Baha'is should suspend work and school. It is commemorated two hours after sunset on the evening of May 22.
As with Baha’i holy days generally, there are no traditions or rites for the observance/celebration of the Declaration of the Bab. In North America the celebration often begins with a short devotional program. Following the prayers, stories of the life of the Bab are read aloud. Sometimes there is also a musical program of singing with instrumental accompaniment. Like all Baha’i holiday observances, after the formal program, there is a sharing of food (especially sweets) and a time for socializing.
The folks at Adherents.com tell us that there are well over 7 million people of Baha’i Faith globally. Beginning two hours after sundown on May 22nd, we ask that each of you pause for a few moments and, in a manner appropriate in your faith tradition and/or belief system, send thoughts of love and good will to all of our Baha’i brothers and sisters.
Shalom Salaam Peace
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To learn more about the world’s faith traditions, including Baha’i Faith, we invite you to consider the books suggested in our online bookstore: The Higher Shelf.
