Memorials of the Faithful

Muhammad Haná-Sab

This man of dignity and rank, Áqá Muhammad, was yet another among those who abandoned their homes, and was one of the earliest believers. From the dawn tide, he was widely known as a lover of the Most Great Light. He was then in Isfahán, and he shut his eyes to this world and the next as well,[This reference to two worlds, du jihán, may indicate the saying: Isfahán is half the world--Isfahán nisf-i-jihán.] and opened them to the beauty of Him Who is the embodiment of all that is lovable.[For this definition of the Manifestation of God, see God Passes By, p. 119.]

Áqá Muhammad could no longer find rest, for he had come alive through the musk-laden breathings of God; his heart was alight, he could inhale the holy fragrance, he had an eye to see, an ear to hear. He guided a number of souls, remaining true and loyal to the great Cause. He endured terrible persecution and torment, but did not falter. Then he found favor in the eyes of the King of Martyrs and became a trusted attendant of the Beloved of Martyrs,[These "twin shining lights" were two brothers, famous merchants of Isfahán. Because he owed them a large sum of money, the leading priest--Imám Jum'ih--of the city brought about their martyrdom. See Bahá'u'lláh's Epistle to the Son of the Wolf, and God Passes By, pp. 200-201 and 219.] serving them for some years. He was confirmed in his work, so that on many occasions the King of Martyrs expressed satisfaction with him, saying, "This man is one of those souls who are at rest; he is indeed well-pleased with his Lord, and well-pleasing unto Him.[Qur'án 89:27-30.] His faith is unalloyed, he loves God, he has a good character, and leads a good life. He is also an agreeable companion, and an eloquent one."

After the King of Martyrs was put to death, Áqá Muhammad stayed on for a time in Isfahán, consumed with mourning for him. Finally he emigrated to the Most Great Prison, where he was received by Bahá'u'lláh, and won the high honor of sweeping the ground about the Threshold. He was patient, forbearing, a true friend and companion. Then the Supreme Affliction came upon us, and Áqá Muhammad was in such anguish that he was unable to rest for a moment. At every dawn he would rise and would sweep the ground about the house of Bahá'u'lláh, his tears pouring down like rain, chanting prayers as he worked.

What a holy being he was, how great a man! He could not bear the separation very long, but died, and hastened onward to the world of lights, to the assemblage where the beauty of God is unveiled. May God shed upon his grave rays from the realm of forgiveness, and lull his spirit in the heart of Paradise. May God exalt his station in the gardens above. His bright tomb is in Akká.