Persian mythology
Persian mythology
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Persian mythology are traditional tales and stories of ancient origin, all involving extraordinary or supernatural beings. Drawn from the legendary past of Iran, they reflect the attitudes of the society to which they first belonged - attitudes towards the confrontation of good and evil, the actions of the gods, yazats (lesser gods), and the exploits of heroes and fabulous creatures. Myths play a crucial part in Iranian culture and our understanding of them is increased when we consider them within the context of Iranian history.
Persian mythology, also known as Zoroastrianism, has a rich collection of myths and legends that have been passed down for thousands of years. Some of the most famous myths of Persian mythology include:
- The story of Zoroaster: This is the story of the prophet Zoroaster, who received a revelation from Ahura Mazda, the god of wisdom and goodness, and who taught the principles of the good religion.
- The Battle of the Gods: The Persian mythology tells of a great battle between the forces of good and evil, led by Ahura Mazda and Angra Mainyu respectively. This battle is said to have been fought to determine the fate of humanity and the world.
- The story of Yima: This is the story of the first man on earth, Yima, who was tasked by Ahura Mazda to create a paradise on earth and protect humanity from the forces of evil.
- The story of Fereydun and the dragon: This is the story of Fereydun, a Persian hero who fought and defeated a dragon to save his people.
- The story of Afrasiyab: Afrasiyab is the king of the demons and the archenemy of the Persian king, Iran. The story of Afrasiyab and Iran's battles is a recurrent theme in Persian mythology and literature.
- The story of Jamshid: Jamshid is a king of Persia who becomes arrogant and loses the favor of the gods and his kingdom.
These myths are part of the Zoroastrian religion, which was the dominant religion in Persia before the arrival of Islam. They were passed down through oral tradition and were later recorded in the sacred texts of the Avesta. They continue to be an important part of Persian culture and are still referenced in modern literature and art.
Persian mythology Legends
Simurgh Bird
A benevolent mythical bird in Persian and Arabian mythology, often depicted as a wise and nurturing creature.
Zahhak
Tyrannical ruler in Persian mythology, with serpents growing from his shoulders. Defeated by the hero Fereydun.
Faridun
Heroic figure in Persian mythology, renowned for his justice and righteousness. Defeated the tyrant Zahhak and restored peace.
Kaveh the Blacksmith
Heroic figure in Persian folklore, who led a revolt against the tyrant Zahhak and helped liberate the people.
Jamshid
Legendary king in Persian mythology, credited with the invention of wine and the establishment of Nowruz, the Persian New Year.
Kay Kavus
Legendary king in Persian mythology, known for his wisdom and adventurous spirit. Embarked on a perilous journey to the realm of the Simurgh.
Homa
Mythical bird in Persian culture, symbolizing purity and fortune. Believed to bring good luck and prosperity.
Simurgh
Mythical bird in Persian mythology, often depicted as a benevolent and wise creature. Guardian of the Tree of Life.
Peri
Mythical fairy-like beings in Persian folklore, often depicted as beautiful winged creatures. Associated with beauty and magic.
Arash
Legendary archer in Persian mythology, known for shooting an arrow to determine the border between Iran and Turan.
Rostam
Legendary hero in Persian mythology, known for his strength and bravery. Central figure in the Shahnameh epic.
Persian mythology Creatures
Simorgh
Guidance, Protection
A mythical bird in Persian mythology, similar to the Simurgh, often associated with the sun and symbolizing protection, guidance, and divine grace.
Persian-mythology
Div-e-Sepid
Invisibility, Shape-shifting
A malevolent spirit or demon in Persian folklore, often depicted as a white, shadowy figure capable of shape-shifting and becoming invisible.
Persian-mythology
Shadhavar
Purity, Elegance
A mythical creature in Persian folklore, often depicted as a deer with the ability to produce musk from its navel, symbolizing purity, elegance, and divine grace.
Persian-mythology
Rakhsh
Strength, Loyalty
A legendary horse in Persian mythology, belonging to the hero Rostam, known for its immense strength, speed, and unwavering loyalty to its master.
Persian-mythology
Manticore
Strength, Ferocity
A legendary creature with the body of a lion, the head of a human, and the tail of a scorpion, known for its ferocity and ability to inflict deadly stings.
Persian-mythology
Simurgh
Wisdom, Healing
A benevolent and wise mythical bird in Persian mythology, often depicted as a large and majestic creature with the body of a bird and the head of a dog or a human.
Persian-mythology
Gryphon
Guardianship, Strength
A legendary creature with the body of a lion and the wings of an eagle, often depicted as a guardian figure in Persian mythology, symbolizing strength and protection.
Persian-mythology
Persian mythology in POP Culture
Aladdin
A kind-hearted street urchin and a power-hungry Grand Vizier vie for a magic lamp that has the power to make their deepest wishes come true.
A kind-hearted street urchin Aladdin vies for the love of the beautiful princess Jasmine, the princess of Agrabah. When he finds a magic lamp, he uses the genie's magic power to make himself a prince in order to marry her. He's also on a mission to stop the powerful Jafar who plots to steal the magi...
Sinbad: Legend of the Seven Seas
An Epic Adventure of Mythic Proportions
A Persian sailor named Sinbad is on a quest to find the magical legendary Book of Peace, a mysterious artifact that Eris, the Greek wicked goddess of chaos, has ultimately framed him for stealing! If he fails on this quest, his childhood friend Prince Proteus of Syracuse will take Sindbad's death pe...
Persian mythology Books
The Shahnameh: The Book of Kings
The Shahnameh, written by the Persian poet Ferdowsi, is an epic poem that recounts the mythical and historical past of Iran. It includes tales of legendary heroes, kings, and mythical creatures.
The Legend of Sohrab and Rostam
The Legend of Sohrab and Rostam, translated by Matthew Sweeney, is a classic Persian tale from the Shahnameh. It tells the tragic story of the hero Rostam and his son Sohrab, who meet in battle without realizing their true relationship.
The Persian Myths
The Persian Myths, retold by John Bierlein, presents a collection of ancient Persian myths and legends. It explores the rich mythology of Persia, including stories of gods, heroes, and supernatural beings.
Yarshater's Persian Mythology
Yarshater's Persian Mythology, edited by Ehsan Yarshater, offers a comprehensive overview of Persian mythology. It covers a wide range of myths, legends, and folklore from ancient Persia.
