Declaration of the Báb: ‘Let your hearts be filled with joy’

An extract below from Bahá’u’lláh’s “Tablet of the Bell” expresses the resounding significance of the Declaration of the Báb, which is to be commemorated at about two hours after sunset on 23 May. The period from sunset on 23 May to sunset on 24 May is one of the nine Bahá’í Holy Days on which work is suspended.

O concourse of ardent lovers! Rejoice in your souls, for the day of separation hath ended, and the Covenant hath been fulfilled, and the Beloved hath appeared arrayed in sublime and majestic beauty. Praise be to Thee, O Thou Who art “He”, O Thou besides Whom there is none but “He”!

O assemblage of mystic knowers! Let your hearts be filled with joy, for the time of remoteness hath passed, and the spirit of certitude hath appeared, and the countenance of the celestial Youth hath beamed forth, adorned with the ornament of holiness in the paradise of His name, the Almighty. Praise be to Thee, O Thou Who art “He”, O Thou besides Whom there is none but “He”!

“The Tablet of the Bell” can be found in the book Days of Remembrance.

Shoghi Effendi’s account of the Declaration of the Báb can be found in God Passes By.

A succinct summary of the life of the Báb is published on the official website of the worldwide Baha’i community. See The Life of the Báb.