A Traveler's Narrative (page 32)

A Traveler's Narrative

page 32

deed with the idea and design of taking blood revenge for his Master, and that it concerned no one else. And when the truth of the matter became evident the innocence of Bahá'u'lláh from this suspicion was established in such wise that no doubt remained for anyone; the decision of the court declared His purity and freedom from this charge; and it became apparent and clear that what had been done with regard to Him was due to the efforts of His foes and the hasty folly of the Hajíbu'd-Dawlih. Therefore did the government of eternal duration desire to restore certain properties and estates which had been confiscated, that thereby it might pacify Him. But since the chief part of these was lost and only an inconsiderable portion was forthcoming, none came forward to claim them. Indeed Bahá'u'lláh requested permission to withdraw to the Supreme Shrines (15) [of Kárbilá and Najaf] and, after some months, by the royal permission and with the leave of the Prime Minister, set out accompanied by one of the King's messengers for the Shrines.

Let us return, however, to our original subject. Of the Báb's's writings many remained in men's hands. Some of these were commentaries on, and interpretations of the verses of the Qur'án; some were prayers, homilies, and hints of [the true significance of certain] passages; others were exhortations, admonitions, dissertations on the different branches of the doctrine of the Divine Unity, demonstrations of the special prophetic mission of the Lord of existing things [Muhammad], and (as it hath been understood) encouragements to amendment of character, severance from worldly states, and dependence on the inspirations of God. But the

15. Atabát Alíyat, literally Supreme Shrines, a term by which the Shí'ih Muslims referred to the cities of Kazímayn, Najaf, and Kárbilá and generally applied to the region of eastern `Iráq, of which Baghdád was the center. When Bahá'u'lláh was released from prison and banished from Persia, He chose Baghdád for the place of His exile.

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