Definition and Meaning
Babism refers to a 19th-century militant Iranian Shi’i messianic movement that aimed at radical religious and social reform. It was founded and led by Sayyid Ali Muhammad Shirazi (d. 1850), who claimed to be the “Bab” or gate to profound knowledge of the Quran. The movement garnered significant support among merchants and government bureaucrats, advocating for a more intense observance of Islamic law and preparing for the imminent reappearance of the Hidden Imam, anticipated around 1845-46.
Etymology and Origins
The term “Babism” is derived from the Arabic word “ุจุงุจ** (bฤb),” which means “gate.” Sayyid Ali Muhammad Shirazi adopted the title “Bab” to signify his role as a conduit to divine knowledge and the Hidden Imam. The word symbolizes a threshold to deeper spiritual insight and imminent messianic transformation.
Historical Context
Background and Formation
- 1830s-1844: Sayyid Ali Muhammad Shirazi began attracting followers with his teachings, eventually proclaiming himself the Bab.
- 1844: The Bab publicly declared himself the hidden Imam, signalling the start of his messianic mission.
- 1845-1846: The movement gained momentum as followers braced for the Hidden Imam’s reappearance.
Milestones and Suppression
- 1846: The Bab was arrested and imprisoned by authorities wary of his growing influence.
- 1849-1850: Major confrontations between Babi followers and the Persian state occurred, leading to significant loss of life.
- July 9, 1850: The Bab was executed, yet he left behind a considerable body of textual works regarded as divine revelations by his followers.
Cultural Differences and Perception
The dominant Shi’i Islamic perspective regards Babism as heterodox, primarily due to its deviation from orthodox Islamic teachings, including the abrogation of Quranic laws. The state saw the movement’s messianic fervor and calls for military action as threats to the established order.
Comparison with Bahai Faith
Babism’s principles and teachings evolved significantly under the influences which led to the establishment of the Bahai Faith. Baha’u’llah, one of the early Babists, expanded upon these teachings, promoting a more universalist doctrine that emphasized unity and peace.
Synonyms and Antonyms
Synonyms
- Shaykhism: Another Shi’i mystic movement that influenced Babism.
Antonyms
- Orthodox Shia Islam: Traditional form of Shi’ism adhering strictly to Quranic law.
Related Terms with Definitions
- Hidden Imam: The twelfth Imam in Shia Islam believed to be in occultation and expected to return as a messianic figure.
- Shi’i Islam: The second-largest branch of Islam which holds that Muhammad’s family, particularly his cousin Ali, and his descendants have special spiritual leadership.
Exciting Facts
- The Bab’s Execution: The Bab was executed by a firing squad, but legend holds that the initial volley of shots missed.
- Writings: The Bab authored numerous works, significantly shaping Babi theology and later Bahai thought.
- Global Influence: Babism and its successor, the Bahai Faith, have grown substantially, attracting followers worldwide.
Quotations from Notable Writers
“A radiant death awaits he who fully comprehends the essence of the Bab’s teachings, for Truth is a beacon amidst the darkness.” โ Mirza Husayn Ali Nuri (Baha’u’llah)
Suggest Literature and References for Further Studies
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Books
- “The Dawnbreakers: Nabรญlโs Narrative of the Early Days of the Bahรกโรญ Revelation” by Nabil-i-Azam
- “Babism in Iran 1840-1850: Adaptations during the Qajar Period” by Abbas Amanat
- “Conversion to Babism and Baha’ism: A Study of Motivations and Processes of Religious Change in the Middle East in the Nineteenth and Twentieth Centuries” by Jakob Werther
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Articles
- Amanat, Abbas. “Resurrection and Renewal: The Making of the Babi Movement in Iran, 1844โ1850.” Cornell University Press, 1989.
- Bausani, Alessandro. “Religion in Iran: From Zoroaster to Bahaullah.” Bibliotheca Persica, 2000.
Quizzes
### Who was the founder of Babism?
- [x] Sayyid Ali Muhammad Shirazi
- [ ] Baha'u'llah
- [ ] Imam Ali
- [ ] Shah Abbas
> **Explanation:** Sayyid Ali Muhammad Shirazi, known as the Bab, was the founder and central figure in the Babi movement.
### What does the term "Bab" mean in Arabic?
- [x] Gate
- [ ] Light
- [ ] Path
- [ ] Prophet
> **Explanation:** The term "Bab" translates to "gate" in Arabic, symbolizing a gateway to divine knowledge and deeper spiritual understanding.
### In what year was the Bab executed?
- [x] 1850
- [ ] 1863
- [ ] 1844
- [ ] 1901
> **Explanation:** The Bab was executed in 1850 by a Persian firing squad, marking a significant point in the history of Babism.
### Which subsequent religious movement evolved from Babism?
- [x] Bahai Faith
- [ ] Ahmadiyya Movement
- [ ] Druze
- [ ] Sunni Islam
> **Explanation:** The Bahai Faith evolved from Babism under the leadership of Baha'u'llah, who expanded upon and modified the original teachings.
### What is one key difference between Babism and Shia Islam?
- [x] Babism abrogates the laws of the Quran.
- [ ] Babism recognizes Abu Bakr as the first caliph.
- [ ] Babism has no concept of the Hidden Imam.
- [ ] Babism includes the five pillars of Islam.
> **Explanation:** One of the fundamental differences is Babism's departure from strict Quranic laws, diverging from orthodox Shia principles.
### From which other movement did Babism derive some theological influences?
- [x] Shaykhism
- [ ] Sunnism
- [ ] Sufism
- [ ] Wahhabism
> **Explanation:** Babism derived theological influence from Shaykhism, a precursor movement within Shia Islam that focused on mystic and esoteric teachings.
### Where was Babism primarily located?
- [x] Iran
- [ ] Turkey
- [ ] India
- [ ] Egypt
> **Explanation:** Babism originated and was primarily located in Iran, reflecting the region's significant role in the movement's history.
### What term is used in Babism to describe the awaited messianic figure?
- [x] Hidden Imam
- [ ] Mahdi
- [ ] Caliph
- [ ] Mujaddid
> **Explanation:** The term "Hidden Imam" encapsulates the Babi belief in a messianic figure whose return is anticipated to bring about radical spiritual and social change.
Farewell note: “The journey through the past is a lantern lighting our way to the future. Discover the roots to understand the branches.” โ Leila Mirsadeghi, 2023
