Bibliography 2: #BIB35810

Key	BIB35810
Reference type	Journal Article
Title	'Abdu'l-Bahá and the Iranian Constitutional Revolution : Embracing Principles while Disapproving Methodologies
Journal	Journal of Bahá'í Studies
Author	Yazdani, Mina
Year	2014
Date	March–June 2014
Issue	1-2
Volume	24
Abstract	This article explores 'Abdu'l-Bahá's orientation toward the Iranian Constitutional Revolution (1906-1911) and proposes that, deeply rooted in Bahá'u'lláh's writings and teachings, His attitude was one of embracing the principles of constitutionalism while disapproving the confrontational nature of the interactions. The text investigates some passages in the Bahá'í Writings relevant to this topic and discusses (1) 'Abdu'l-Bahá's efforts to reconcile the majlis and the court of the Shah while uring the Bahá'ís to do the same or withdraw if unsuccessful; (2) His warnings against foreign interference, the involvement of the 'ulamá in politics, and the role of the Yahyáyís in the Revolution; (3) His views on obedience to government and non-interference in partisan politics; and (4) His concern that the Bahá'ís would be scapegoated if they intervened. The article then focuses on 'Abdu'l-Bahá's view that real social change needs to start at the moral-ethical level, a corollary of spiritual rejuvenation. The article concluses by examining this view as a guideline for Bahá'í action in times of sociapolitical turmoil as exemplified in the April 2011 letter of the Bahá'ís of Egypt to the people of that country. Yazdani corrects a number of erroneous conclusions by authors who have written on this topic previously.
Language	English
Keywords	IRAN; HISTORY; CONSTITUTIONALISM; 1906-1911
Pages	47–82

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