The central figure in the second period of Bahá’í history was Bahá’u’lláh, the One foretold by the Báb. He was born in Ṭihrán, Persia, on November 12, 1817. His given name was Ḥusayn-‘Alí; later he assumed the title Bahá’u’lláh, meaning “Glory of God.”

Ḥusayn-‘Alí was of a noble, respected, and wealthy family. A career in government service was open to Him but He was not interested in politics. His kingdom was not of this world. Turning His back on a life of luxury, He early championed the Cause of the Báb. He knew that this action would lead to privation, suffering, and persecution for Himself and His loved ones. The blow fell in August 1852 when He was incarcerated in the Black Pit of the capital of Persia. In this underground dungeon, He was surrounded by thieves and murderers and the heavy chains and fetters cut into His flesh. Amidst the horror, agony, and gloom of this place, the Revelation of Bahá’u’lláh was born. The “Most Great Spirit” appeared to Him in a dream and on every side was heard these words: “Verily, we shall render Thee victorious by Thyself and by Thy pen. Grieve not for that which hath befallen Thee, neither be