Quddús

""The importance of exploring the early history of religions cannot be overstated. This is especially important with the 19th century Bábí religion which rapidly evolved from a messianic movement to a globally esteemed Bahá'í Faith. Through his two recent publications, The Dispensation of the Báb and Quddús the First in Rank, Professor Boris Handal has offered a substantial body of valuable information that enables us to discern the intrinsic connection between the Bábí and the Bahá'í religions despite the stark differences in their worldviews."" Fereydun Vahman, Professor Emeritus, University of Copenhagen ""Quddús' exemplary sacrifice and unwavering devotion to the teachings of the Báb, aimed at bringing about a new reality in all spheres of human endeavour, have served as an inspiration to many. Boris Handal's detailed book on the life of Quddús will surely inspire many more and provide them with complete information about his life."" Dr Amin Egea, author of the two volumes of ""The Apostle of Peace"". ""How can one obtain a better impression of one who was described by the Guardian of the Bahá'í Faith as 'the essence of sanctity and purity'. most certainly throughout the Bahá'í Dispensation. Bahá'ís will laudably try to get a better impression of this 'stainless mirror' of the Báb's Manifestation. This book is the first time an author has dedicated his whole endeavour to get us closer to Quddús, to enable us to look more closely at the rays of sanctity and holiness reflected upon us. It is a great accompaniment to the immortal pages and passages of the Guardian's abiding Dawn-breakers."" Dr Khazeh Fananapazir, Bahá'í translator and author ""This gripping book brings to life the extraordinary account of Quddús, one of the most revered figures in Bahá'í history. The author transports readers to the tumultuous dawn of the Bábí religion, which shook the foundations of nineteenth-century Persia. The story of Quddús's life and sacrifice, unwavering faith, and spiritual conviction-rendered in poignant detail-blaze forth from the chapters of Quddús: The First in Rank and resonate in readers long after the final page is turned."" Dr Omid Ghaemmaghami, Associate Professor of Arabic and Islamic Studies at the State University of New York ""In his comprehensive biography of Quddús, the 'most outstanding disciple' of the Báb. Boris Handal has told us more about the great Bábí hero than can be found anywhere else. Professor Handal has combined his astounding diligence-and talent for research-with his geographical knowledge of Persia. He has produced more than a book but rather an encyclopaedia."" Michael Day, author of Point of Adoration: The story of the Shrine of Baha'u'llah 1873-1892, and a trilogy telling the story of the Shrine of the Báb.