The second major division arose amongst the Followers of Bahaullah was after his death. Mirza Husain Ali (Bahaullah) expired in May 1892 leaving behind 4 sons and 3 daughters. A severe dispute of successorship erupted among the brothers. The eldest, Abbas Effendi claimed to be the rightful successor in view of the continuation of divine inspirations. However, his brothers Mirza Mohammed Ali, Mirza Badiullah and Mirza Ziaullah and many other Bahais countered that the Divine inspiration ended since "Bahaullah" had himself written in "Al Aqdas" that anyone who claims thus (Divine inspiration) before the completion of 1,000 years of Bahaism, indeed was a liar and that this claim was false. Nevertheless Abbas Effendi was able to tide over these problems very soon. He assumed the title of "Abdu'l-Baha" and called his followers as "Sabiteen" (Steadfasters) and followers of his younger brother as "Naqizeen" (Covenant Breakers).

The followers of Mirza Mohammed Ali call themselves as "Unitarian Bahais".