Execution of the Báb
On the morning of July 9, 1850 in Tabriz, a 30-year-old Persian merchant known as the Báb was charged with apostasy and shot by order of the Prime Minister of the Persian Empire. The events surrounding his execution have been the subject of controversy among researchers, and are regarded as miraculous by followers of the Baháʼí Faith, who consider him to be a Manifestation of God.
| Martyrdom of the Báb | |
|---|---|
| Observed by | Baháʼí Faith |
| Type | Baháʼí |
| Date | 9 or 10 July |
The Báb and one of his companions were suspended on a wall and a large firing squad prepared to shoot. When the smoke cleared after the first firing of bullets, the Báb was missing. Reports continue by stating that the Báb was found back in his prison room finishing dictation to his secretary. Other sources, which include Persian and European reports, give a variety of accounts, some in agreement with the miracle-like Baháʼí story, and some indicating a less miraculous event. All agree that he survived the first firing squad, and was killed by the second.
For many years after his death, the remains of the Báb were secretly transferred from place to place until they were brought to their final resting place at the Shrine of the Báb in Haifa on the middle terrace of the Baháʼí Gardens.
The anniversary of this event is commemorated by members of the Baháʼí Faith at noon on Rahmat 16 (Sharaf) (of the Baháʼí calendar - i.e., July 9 or July 10). It is one of nine Holy Days when work is suspended.