\Bab"ism\, n. [From Bab (Pers. bab a gate), the title
assumed by the founder, Mirza Ali Mohammed.]
The doctrine of a modern religious sect, which originated in
Persia in 1843, being a mixture of Mohammedan, Christian,
Jewish and Parsee elements.

\Bab"ism\, Babiism \Bab"i*ism\, n.
The doctrine of a modern religious pantheistical sect in
Persia, which was founded, about 1844, by Mirza Ali Mohammed
ibn Rabhik (1820 -- 1850), who assumed the title of
Bab-ed-Din (Per., Gate of the Faith). Babism is a mixture of
Mohammedan, Christian, Jewish, and Parsi elements. This
doctrine forbids concubinage and polygamy, and frees women
from many of the degradations imposed upon them among the
orthodox Mohammedans. Mendicancy, the use of intoxicating
liquors and drugs, and slave dealing, are forbidden;
asceticism is discountenanced. -- {Bab"ist}, n.