Martyrdom of the Bab

On July 9, Bahá’ís around the world commemorate the Martyrdom of the Báb, one of the central figures of the Bahá’í Faith. This solemn holy day begins at sunset on July 9 and ends at sunset on July 10. On this day, work and school are suspended by Bahá’í believers, as they remember the life and sacrifice of the Báb.

History

On July 9, 1850, the Báb, a 30-year-old religious leader and one of the founders of the Bahá’í Faith, was executed by firing squad in Tabriz, Persia (modern-day Iran), under the orders of the Prime Minister of the Persian Empire. He was accused of apostasy for proclaiming a new religious message.

Historical accounts describe unusual circumstances during the execution. The Báb and one of his followers were suspended by ropes against a wall and shot. After the first round of shots, the Báb’s body was no longer at the wall. Some reports claim he was found back in his cell, continuing to dictate to his secretary. He was executed on the second attempt.

To protect his remains from desecration, followers secretly moved the Báb’s body for many years. In 1909, his remains were laid to rest in the Shrine of the Báb on Mount Carmel in Haifa, Israel, a site now considered one of the holiest places for Bahá’ís.

Interesting Facts

• The Báb declared himself a Messenger of God in 1844, marking the beginning of the Bahá’í calendar.
• Mirza Mihdi Khan Zaimud-Daulih published The Key to the Gates of the Gate in 1896, offering one of the earliest detailed accounts of the execution.
• The Shrine of the Báb in Haifa is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and an important pilgrimage site for Bahá’ís.

How to Take Part

To honor the Martyrdom of the Báb, you can take time to learn more about the Bahá’í Faith and its principles of unity, peace, and justice. Visit a local Bahá’í center or explore online resources to gain insight into the life of the Báb and the teachings of this global religion. You may also attend commemorative gatherings or observe a moment of silence in respect for this sacred day.

When is Martyrdom of the Báb in 2025?

Martyrdom of the Báb is observed on July 9 each year.

Observations