Mírzá ‘Alí-Akbar-i-Nakhjavání (1865-1920) is a moving biography of an early believer who had a personal relationship with ‘Abdu’l-Bahá. Mírzá ‘Alí-Akbar translated many Bahá’í Tablets into Russian and, at ‘Abdu’l-Bahá’s request, corresponded with some of the leading literary figures of the time—including Leo Tolstoy and Isabella Grinevskaya. Mírzá ‘Alí-Akbar-i-Nakhjavání also had the great honor of traveling with ‘Abdu’l-Bahá as part of His entourage on His journey through North America in 1912. ‘Abdu’l-Bahá’s fondness for this young gentleman of the Caucasus is evident not only in the details of their interactions but in the many Tablets that the Master addressed to him.
More than just a biography, this book is a loving tribute written by a son whose own life of distinguished service is well-known to the Bahá’ís of the world, and who collected over the course of many years the documents and details that would illuminate the story of his father. Included in this volume is a collection of newly translated Tablets of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá addressed to Mírzá ‘Alí-Akbar-i-Nakhjavání as well as several other Tablets and letters addressed to believers in Bákú. Also included is a collection of archival photographs and other supplementary historical documents. The reader will not only learn the details of the life of this unique historical figure but will also be given a glimpse of the early Bahá’í community of Bákú and some of the many fascinating characters who populated it.
“A literary gem has just been released: it is brilliant not only because it tells the life story of an incredible person and is written by an incredible person, but, most significantly, it includes newly translated tablets of Abdu’l-Baha.”
- Sonjel Vreeland, Baha'i Blog
The full article, including an interview with the author, Mr. Nakhjavani, can be found here