Edict of Toleration

The Edict of Toleration is a name used in William Sears' book, Thief in the Night. According to Mr. Sears, the "Edict of Toleration" was issued by the Ottoman authorities in the year 1844. It has been interpreted in some circles to mean that the Turkish authorities were prepared to allow any Jews who so wished, to dwell in Palestine. As the number of Bahá'ís grew, there came more frequent requests for elucidation as to where this document could be found, and a rumour subsequently circulated among the Bahá'ís that there was no such thing. William Sears obtained the references to it from a Christian writer while he was preparing "Thief in the Night", and it was assumed by quite a number of Bahá'ís that the whole story of the "Edict" was a misunderstanding.

However, it has emerged that a statement was issued by Turkish officials, emphasising that "apostates" were no longer under any danger in the territory of Palestine. This letter was later given the title "Edict of Toleration" when it was mentioned in Christian missionary circles, probably by someone who had never read it. None the less, the title given does convey that a measure of religious freedom was officially granted at this time.

Mentions of the Edict

Prophetic interpretation of the "Edict of Toleration", as it came be called in some circles, was a product of Christian investigations beginning in March 1844. After passing through several Christian hands it became known to Baha'is as well. The "Edict" was a minor statement of Sultan Abdülmecid of the Ottoman Empire, the Sublime Porte. trying to solve an international tension of the disposition of Christians and had theoretical implications for Jewish converts. However the general atmosphere did include a beginning of a trend in Jewish prominence in Syrian Palestine, a process that was long and slow.

Beyond the notice given in private circles, newspaper coverage included the London Times, 15 and 16 April 1844.