بهائیگری - شیعیگری - صوفیگری Bahai'ism, Shi'ism, Sufi'ism

The reviews consistently praise Ahmad Kasravi's book for its pioneering and courageous critical examination of Shiism, Baha'ism, and Sufism. Many readers found it highly informative and essential for understanding the historical development and underlying principles of these religious currents. Kasravi is lauded for his direct, frank, and engaging prose, which avoids excessive preambles and minimizes the use of Arabic vocabulary, making the text accessible and to the point. Reviewers appreciate his logical approach and the enduring relevance of many of his criticisms regarding religious practices and perceived superstitions, noting that some observations remain pertinent even today. His work is recognized as stimulating intellectual discourse and offering fresh perspectives on religious history.

However, critics also point to several perceived shortcomings. Some reviewers found Kasravi's consistently negative and harsh tone towards Shiism to be exasperating and biased. Concerns were raised about his depth of knowledge regarding Shiite jurisprudence and early Islamic history, with some suggesting this led to incomplete information and sweeping generalizations. He is accused of unfairly grouping all Shiites together, overlooking the diversity of thought and efforts to combat distortions within the tradition, as well as historical instances of Shiite engagement in societal and political movements. Furthermore, some of his historical interpretations are questioned for not aligning with established facts, and certain predictions he made have reportedly not materialized.

Despite its controversial nature and some perceived flaws, the book is widely considered a significant and essential read for those interested in a critical, historical, and intellectual examination of these religious movements. It is particularly recommended for readers living in societies influenced by these religions, who seek to understand their historical origins, development, and associated practices from a dissenting perspective. The book encourages independent thought and further research, making it suitable for critical thinkers and anyone willing to engage with challenging ideas, even if they ultimately disagree with some of Kasravi's conclusions. It is seen as a work that stimulates profound reflection on inherited beliefs and societal norms.