To this the learned Siyyid replied: “As we in the beginning
believed that both Shaykh Ahmad and Siyyid Kázim were actuated by no desire
except to advance the cause of knowledge and safeguard the sacred interests of
the Faith, we felt prompted to extend to them our heartiest support and to
extol their teachings. In later years, however, we have noticed so many
conflicting statements and obscure and mysterious allusions in their writings
that we felt it advisable to keep silent for a time, and to refrain from either
censure or applause.”
To this Mullá Husayn replied: “I cannot but deplore such
silence on your part, for I firmly believe that it involves the loss of a
splendid opportunity to advance the cause of Truth. It is for you to set forth
specifically such passages in their writings as appear to you mysterious or
inconsistent with the precepts of the Faith, and I will, with the aid of God,
undertake to expound their true meaning.”
The poise, the dignity and confidence, which characterised
the behaviour of this unexpected messenger, greatly impressed Hájí Siyyid
Muhammad-Báqir. He begged him not to press the matter at this moment, but to
wait until a later day, when, in private converse, he might acquaint him with
his own doubts and misgivings. Mullá Husayn, however, feeling that delay might
prove harmful to the cause he had at heart, insisted upon an immediate
conference with him about the weighty problems which he felt impelled and able
to resolve. The Siyyid was moved to tears by the youthful enthusiasm, the
sincerity and serene confidence to which the countenance of Mullá Husayn so
admirably testified. He sent immediately for some of the works written by
Shaykh Ahmad and Siyyid Kázim, and began to question Mullá Husayn regarding those
passages which had excited his disapproval and surprise. To each reference the
messenger replied with characteristic vigour, with masterly knowledge and
befitting modesty.
(Chapter 2, ‘The Dawn-Breakers’)
