Bahaism and Its Claims / A Study of the Religion Promulgated by Baha Ullah and Abdul Baha

Metadata

Gutenberg ID

36585

Title

Bahaism and Its Claims / A Study of the Religion Promulgated by Baha Ullah and Abdul Baha

Language

en

Book source

Project Gutenberg

Description max 80 words

A critical examination of Bahaism, a sect revolting from Islam and seeking to supplant Christianity. Wilson, a thirty-two-year resident of Persia, analyzes its claims of universality, its specific doctrines, and its moral record, offering a skeptical view of its leaders and practices.

Summary up to 500 words

In "Bahaism and Its Claims," Samuel Graham Wilson offers a critical examination of Bahaism, characterizing it as a revolt from Islam that aggressively seeks converts in the West. Wilson frames the movement not as a genuine spiritual revelation but as a political and social opportunism designed to supplant Christianity. He details the historical origins involving the Bab and Baha Ullah, scrutinizing their claims of miraculous writing speeds and vast literary output, which Wilson dismisses as rhetorical boasting rather than divine proof. He contrasts these claims with a critical analysis of the content, noting that the religion's doctrines are often inadequate, lacking systematic planning, and borrowing heavily from previous faiths. Wilson argues that Bahaism presents a dual face: antagonistic toward Christianity while claiming to be its fulfillment, and hostile toward Shia Islam while seeking reconciliation with the state. He highlights specific doctrines he views as morally suspect, including the allowance of bigamy, loose divorce laws, and the practice of *tagiya* (dissimulation), where followers are instructed to conceal their true faith. The book investigates the movement's political maneuvering, noting its shift from revolutionary Mahdist agitation to opportunistic support of reactionary Shahs to ensure survival. A significant portion of the text addresses the movement's propaganda efforts in America, particularly the controversial visits of Abdul Baha in 1911 and 1912. Wilson describes these visits as largely ineffective, portraying Abdul Baha as lacking deep intellectual or spiritual influence, with addresses filled with platitudes. He critiques the Bahai establishment of congregations and the construction of a temple in Chicago, suggesting that the movement's numbers in the U.S. are exaggerated. Furthermore, Wilson condemns the sect's moral record, accusing it of falsifying history, suppressing facts, and engaging in religious assassination, specifically targeting the followers of Subh-i-Azal. He concludes with a skeptical portrait of a faith he views as boastful, vindictive, and dangerous to liberty, warning readers against its insidious attempts to replace established religious and social orders.

LLM editorial rating

3.5/5

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Categories

• Religion
• Controversial Literature