This man of dignity and rank, Aqa Muhammad, was yet another among those
who abandoned their homes, and was one of the earliest believers. From the
dawn tide, he was widely known as a lover of the Most Great Light. He was
then in Isfahan, and he shut his eyes to this world and the next as
well,(40) and opened them to the beauty of Him Who is the embodiment of
all that is lovable.(41)
Aqa Muhammad could no longer find rest, for he had come alive through the
musk-laden breathings of God; his heart was alight, he could inhale the
holy fragrance, he had an eye to see, an ear to hear. He guided a number
of souls, remaining true and loyal to the great Cause. He endured terrible
persecution and torment, but did not falter. Then he found favor in the
eyes of the King of Martyrs and became a trusted attendant of the Beloved
of Martyrs,(42) serving them for some years. He was confirmed in his work,
so that on many occasions the King of Martyrs expressed satisfaction with
him, saying, "This man is one of those souls who are at rest; he is indeed
well-pleased with his Lord, and well-pleasing unto Him.(43) His faith is
unalloyed, he loves God, he has a good character, and leads a good life.
He is also an agreeable companion, and an eloquent one."
After the King of Martyrs was put to death, Aqa Muhammad stayed on for a
time in Isfahan, consumed with mourning for him. Finally he emigrated to
the Most Great Prison, where he was received by Baha'u'llah, and won the
high honor of sweeping the ground about the Threshold. He was patient,
forbearing, a true friend and companion. Then the Supreme Affliction came
upon us, and Aqa Muhammad was in such anguish that he was unable to rest
for a moment. At every dawn he would rise and would sweep the ground about
the house of Baha'u'llah, his tears pouring down like rain, chanting
prayers as he worked.
What a holy being he was, how great a man! He could not bear the
separation very long, but died, and hastened onward to the world of
lights, to the assemblage where the beauty of God is unveiled. May God
shed upon his grave rays from the realm of forgiveness, and lull his
spirit in the heart of Paradise. May God exalt his station in the gardens
above. His bright tomb is in Akka.