This date marks the birthday of the Bab (1819-1850), who is honored by the Baha’is as the one who announced that the messenger of God would soon appear. Born Siyyid Ali Muhammad in Shiraz, Iran, his title in Arabic means “The Gate.” The Bab was the forerunner of Baha’u’llah, the prophet-founder of the Baha’i faith. On this day, Baha’is throughout the world suspend work and come together for prayer and festivities.

Interesting Facts

• The Birthday of the Báb is celebrated on the same day as the Birthday of Baha’u’llah in the Baha’i Faith, making these two days collectively known as the “Twin Holy Days.” The dates for these celebrations were historically based on the Islamic lunar calendar but are now observed according to the Baha’i solar calendar, ensuring they fall on consecutive days globally.
• The House of the Báb in Shiraz, Iran, where the Báb declared His mission, holds significant importance for Baha’is. Although access to this site is currently restricted, it remains a symbolic location for pilgrimage in spirit.