A vibrant collection brings to life the earliest followers of the Báb—the Heroes of the New Age—whose fearless devotion reshaped nineteenth-century Persia and beyond. Edward Diliberto retraces the footsteps of pioneers like Mullá Ḥusayn, Quddús, Ṭáhirih and Zaynab, vividly recreating the moment when, in the bitter winter siege at Shaykh Ṭabarsí, the defenders rallied around their most valiant warrior, every nerve aflame with divine purpose.

Through eloquent storytelling, the volume unfolds each hero’s journey: from Ṭáhirih’s prophetic courage and Vaḥíd’s scholarly zeal to the seven stalwarts of Tehran and the youth Anís. Battles at Ṭabarsí, Nayríz and Zanján pulse with urgency as ordinary men and women confront persecution with extraordinary spiritual strength. Discussion questions at the close of each chapter deepen engagement with themes of sacrifice, justice and communal solidarity.

By weaving historical drama with reflective prompts, this anthology equips one with fresh perspectives on courage under fire and the transformative power of faith. Insights into these seminal figures illuminate pathways for personal conviction, collective resilience and the ongoing quest to uphold principle amid adversity.