Babism

Babism is a religion which was founded in 1844, a year after the modern Persian sect founded in 1843. It derives its name after its founder Mirza Ali Muhammad of Shiraz (1819-50), who was popularly known as the 'Bab'. He predicted that a new prophet would follow prophet Muhammad. The doctrine of this religion is a mixture of pantheistic with Gnostic and Buddhist beliefs. It is adverse to polygamy, concubinage, and divorce. It insists on the emancipation of women. The Babis have suffered from persecution, but are increasing in numbers.