Baba Declaration Day
May 23, Friday
Historical Background
The Declaration of the Báb refers to the event that took place on the night of May 22, 1844, in Shiraz, Persia (now Iran). On that night, a young man named Siyyid ‘Alí-Muhammad declared Himself to be the "Báb," meaning "Gate." He proclaimed that He was a messenger of God sent to prepare the way for the coming of a greater divine figure — Bahá'u'lláh. This declaration marked the beginning of a religious movement that eventually evolved into the Bahá'í Faith.
Spiritual Significance
This day holds profound spiritual meaning for Bahá'ís. They commemorate it as the beginning of a new era in the spiritual history of humanity. The Báb is regarded as the forerunner of Bahá'u'lláh’s revelation, and His declaration signifies the dawn of a new age in religious and civilizational development.
How It Is Celebrated
The Declaration of the Báb is typically observed through various spiritual and community activities, including:
- Reciting special prayers and sacred writings from the Báb and Bahá'u'lláh
- Gathering at Bahá'í Houses of Worship or community meeting places
- Personal reflection and contemplation on the meaning of the day
- Artistic and cultural activities that express Bahá'í values
- Refraining from work or school, as this is a holy day in the Bahá'í calendar
Date of Observance
The Declaration of the Báb is celebrated on the 8th of Azamat in the Bahá'í calendar, which usually falls on May 22 or 23 in the Gregorian calendar, depending on sunset calculations and geographic location.
Baba Declaration Day in other years
Baba Declaration Day in other countries
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