March 15. On this date in 1973, the Mansion at Mazra'ih was purchased from the Israeli government. Previously owned by a Muslim waqf, the mansion was expropriated after the establishment of the State of Israel and leased to the Bahá'í administration in 1951. The Bahá'í ownership was finally secured through the purchase in 1973.

 

March 15. On this date in 1973, the Mansion at Mazra'ih was purchased from the Israeli government. Previously owned by a Muslim waqf, the mansion was expropriated after the establishment of the State of Israel and leased to the Bahá'í administration in 1951. The Bahá'í ownership was finally secured through the purchase in 1973.

From Baha'i News, no. 244, June 1951, p. 4...

"Masra'ih is a Moslem religious endowment, and it is consequently impossible, under existing laws in this country, for it to be sold. However, as the friends are aware, the Ministry of Religions, due to the direct intervention of the Minister himself, Rabbi Maimon, consented, in the face of considerable opposition, to deliver Masra'ih to the Baha'is as a Holy Place to be visited by Baha'i pilgrims. This means that we rent it from the Department of Moslem and Druze affairs in the Ministry of Religions. The head of this Department is also a Rabbi, Dr. Hirschberg. Recently he, his wife and party, visited all the Baha'i properties in Haifa and 'Akka, following upon a very pleasant tea party in the Western Pilgrim House with the members of the International Baha'i Council."

Message from the Universal House of Justice to all National Spiritual Assemblies, March 15, 1973...

Occasion Naw-Rúz 130 joyously announce Bahá'í world acquisition by purchase mansion Mazra'ih result several years patient persistent determined negotiations thereby adding to Bahá'í endowments Holy Land first residence Bahá'u'lláh after nine years spent walled prison city 'Akká. Control this holy site reacquired by beloved Guardian after lapse more than fifty years when he secured lease mansion 1950 extended to present time. Purchase includes land area approximating twentyfour thousand square meters highly suitable extension gardens cultivation. Offering prayer thanksgiving Sacred Threshold this greatly cherished bounty.