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| Isfahan circa 1839 |
Arriving in Isfáhán, he sought immediately the presence of
the learned Siyyid. Clad in mean attire, and laden with the dust of travel, he
appeared, amidst the vast and richly apparelled company of the disciples of
that distinguished leader, an insignificant and negligible figure. Unobserved
and undaunted, he advanced to a place which faced the seat occupied by that
renowned teacher. Summoning to his aid all the courage and confidence with
which the instructions of Siyyid Kázim had inspired him, he addressed Hájí
Siyyid Muhammad-Báqir in these words: “Hearken, O Siyyid, to my words, for
response to my plea will ensure the safety of the Faith of the Prophet of God,
and refusal to consider my message will cause it grievous injury.” These bold
and courageous words, uttered with directness and force, produced a surprising
impression upon the Siyyid. He suddenly interrupted his discourse, and,
ignoring his audience, listened with close attention to the message which this
strange visitor had brought. His disciples, amazed at this extraordinary
behaviour, rebuked this sudden intruder and denounced his presumptuous
pretensions. With extreme politeness, in firm and dignified language, Mullá
Husayn hinted at their discourtesy and shallowness, and expressed surprise at their
arrogance and vainglory. The Siyyid was highly pleased with the demeanour and
argument which the visitor so strikingly displayed. He deplored and apologised
for the unseemly conduct of his own disciples. In order to compensate for their
ingratitude, he extended every conceivable kindness to that youth, assured him
of his support, and besought him to deliver his message. Thereupon, Mullá
Husayn acquainted him with the nature and object of the mission with which he
had been entrusted.
(Chapter 2, ‘The Dawn-Breakers’)
