Persian

Mythology
Mythology nd Folklore
Origin of Persian Mythology
Persian mythology has its origins in the ancient beliefs and practices of the Indo-
Iranian peoples who inhabited the region of present-day Iran and surrounding
areas. These beliefs likely emerged thousands of years ago and were influenced by
the cultural interactions and exchanges with neighboring civilizations such as
Mesopotamia, Anatolia, and the Indus Valley. Over time, these beliefs were
formalized and codified in sacred texts such as the Avesta, which contains the
religious scriptures of Zoroastrianism, one of the earliest known monotheistic
religions. Additionally, the epic poem Shahnameh, composed by Ferdowsi in the
10th century CE, played a significant role in preserving and popularizing Persian
mythology.
Creation of Persian Mythology
Persian mythology's creation narratives vary depending on the source,
but one prominent account is found in the Avesta, the sacred scriptures of
Zoroastrianism. In this tradition, the world is created through the actions
of the supreme deity, Ahura Mazda, who brings order and goodness to
the cosmos. Ahura Mazda creates the world in stages, including the sky,
waters, earth, plants, animals, and humans.

The Avesta also recounts the struggle between Ahura Mazda and his
adversary, Angra Mainyu (Ahriman), the embodiment of chaos and evil.
This cosmic battle between good and evil shapes the ongoing conflict
within Persian mythology, influencing the destiny of humanity and the
universe.

Additionally, Persian mythology incorporates elements from pre-

Zoroastrian traditions, which may include creation myths involving other
deities and supernatural beings. These narratives have been shaped and
preserved through oral traditions, religious texts, and cultural practices
over thousands of years, contributing to the rich and diverse tapestry of
Persian mythology.
 GODS
&
GODDESSES
 Ahura Mazda:
The supreme god of
Zoroastrianism, representing
wisdom, truth, and goodness.
Ahura Mazda is associated
with light and is opposed to
darkness and evil.
Anahita: Mithra:
The goddess of water, The god of contracts, oath, and
fertility, and healing. the sun. Mithra is associated
Anahita is often depicted with justice, loyalty, and the
as a maiden standing on a cosmic order. In later Roman
lion or enthroned with a times, Mithraism became a
dove. prominent mystery religion.
 Asha Vahishta:
The concept of divine truth
and righteousness,
personified as a deity. Asha
Vahishta is associated with
fire and is one of the
Amesha Spentas, or divine
entities, in Zoroastrianism.
Vayu: Yazatas:
The god of wind and air. Various divine beings or
Vayu is considered one spirits in Zoroastrianism,
of the Amesha Spentas each associated with
and is associated with specific aspects of nature
breath and life force. or concepts such as
victory, good health, and
fertility.
HEROES AND LEGENDS
 Rostam: Kaveh the Blacksmith: Zal and Rudaba:
Siavash:
Perhaps the most famous A legendary figure who A love story between the
A prince known for his
hero in Persian mythology, rises up against the warrior Zal and the
beauty, wisdom, and
Rostam is a courageous tyrannical rule of Zahhak, beautiful princess Rudaba,
tragic fate. Siavash
warrior and champion of Iran a malevolent king with which overcomes various
faces betrayal and
in the Shahnameh. He serpents growing from his challenges and obstacles,
persecution but
undertakes numerous shoulders. Kaveh including familial rivalries
remains noble and
quests and battles against becomes a symbol of and divine interventions.
virtuous throughout his
mythical beasts and trials. resistance and rebellion
formidable foes to protect against oppression.
his kingdom and uphold
honor.
 Sohrab:
The tragic figure of Sohrab, the son of
Rostam, who unknowingly faces his
own father in battle and dies in their
confrontation. His story explores
themes of fate, honor, and the
complexities of familial relationships
Faridun:
A legendary king and hero who overthrows
the tyrant Zahhak and restores peace and
justice to the land. Faridun's reign
symbolizes the triumph of good over evil and
the establishment of righteousness.
MYTHOLOGICAL CREATURES
 Simurgh: Divs: Peri:
Malevolent spirits or demons in Beautiful and angelic spirits
A majestic and benevolent bird with
Persian mythology, often associated resembling fairies or nymphs in
the body of a lion and the wings of
with chaos, darkness, and deceit. Persian folklore. Peris are often
an eagle. The Simurgh is often
Divs can take on various forms and depicted as benevolent beings who
depicted as a guardian of the
are sometimes depicted as inhabit the heavens and occasionally
natural world and a symbol of
monstrous creatures with multiple interact with humans to bestow
wisdom and compassion.
heads or limbs. blessings or grant wishes.
 Manticore:
A legendary creature with the
body of a lion, the face of a
human, and the tail of a scorpion.
The Manticore is known for its
ferocity and its ability to devour its
prey with venomous stingers on
its tail.
Sphinx:
A mythical creature with the body of
a lion and the head of a human or
other animal. In Persian mythology,
the Sphinx is often associated with
riddles and wisdom, challenging
travelers with perplexing questions.
Anzû:
A monstrous bird-like
creature, sometimes
depicted as a giant eagle or
a lion-headed eagle. Anzû is
associated with storms and
is often depicted as a
symbol of chaos and
destruction.
Persian Empire
 Rituals and Ceremony
: Fire Worship
Fire holds a sacred
significance in Persian
mythology, symbolizing purity,
enlightenment, and divine
presence. Zoroastrian rituals
often involve the worship of fire
as a representation of Ahura
Mazda's presence. Fire
temples, known as Atash
Behrams or Atashkadehs, are
places of worship where rituals
are performed to honor the
sacred fire.
 Nowruz

The Persian New Year celebration,

Nowruz, is one of the most
important annual festivals in
Persian culture. It marks the
beginning of spring and the renewal
of nature. Nowruz rituals include
cleaning and decorating homes,
visiting family and friends,
preparing special foods, and
performing traditional ceremonies
such as setting the Haft-Seen table
with symbolic items representing
renewal and prosperity.
 Gahanbar:

Gahanbar festivals are seasonal

celebrations in Zoroastrianism,
marking the changing of seasons
and agricultural cycles. These
festivals involve communal
gatherings, feasting, and rituals to
honor the divine beings associated
with each season. Gahanbar
festivals are occasions for
expressing gratitude for the bounty
of the earth and seeking blessings
for the future.
 Jashn-e Tirgan:

A traditional Iranian festival

celebrated in honor of Tir, the
Zoroastrian deity associated with
rain and fertility. Jashn-e Tirgan
rituals include outdoor festivities,
water-related activities, and prayers
for rain and prosperity.
Thank You!!