BABIISM • DICTIONARY ONE.COM • Definition of Babiism

Babiism, Babism n. The doctrine of a modern religious pantheistical sect in Persia, which was founded, about 1844, by Mirza Ali Mohammed ibn Rabhik (1820 1850), who assumed the title of Bab-ed-Din (Per., Gate of the Faith). Babism is a mixture of Muslim, Christian, Jewish, and Parsi elements. This doctrine forbids concubinage and polygamy, and frees women from many of the degradations imposed upon them among the orthodox Muslims. Mendicancy, the use of intoxicating liquors and drugs, and slave dealing, are forbidden; asceticism is discountenanced.