Faravahar

The Most Iconic Symbol of Zoroastrianism

The Faravahar is instantly recognizable as the supreme symbol of Zoroastrianism and ancient Persian culture. This winged disk with a human figure represents the divine glory (khvarenah) and the human soul's journey toward Asha (truth). While the exact origins and meanings are debated by scholars, the Faravahar has become the universal emblem of Zoroastrian identity and values.

Historical Origins

Ancient Precedents

Winged disk symbols appear throughout the ancient Near East:

• Egyptian Winged Sun Disk: Symbol of the god Horus and divine protection (predates Persian use by centuries)
• Assyrian Ashur Symbol: Winged disk representing the god Ashur, often with a human figure drawing a bow
• Hittite Sun Disk: Winged sun representing divine power

Persian Achaemenid Development

The distinctively Persian Faravahar emerges in the Achaemenid Empire (550-330 BCE):

• Persepolis: The Faravahar prominently appears above royal reliefs, blessing kings
• Behistun Inscription: Appears above Darius I's famous inscription
• Royal Seals: Found on numerous official seals and documents
• Pasargadae: Appears in Cyrus the Great's palace

Scholars debate whether these Achaemenid symbols represent Ahura Mazda, the divine glory (khvarenah), or the fravashi. Most likely, it embodied multiple interrelated meanings.

Symbolic Elements & Their Meanings

Each component of the Faravahar carries deep theological significance:

The Human Figure

• Ancient Interpretation: May represent the king, Ahura Mazda, or the fravashi (guardian spirit)
• Modern Zoroastrian Interpretation: Represents the human soul on its journey toward perfection
• Right Hand Raised: Points upward, indicating the path toward truth and enlightenment
• Left Hand Holds Ring: Symbol of covenant, loyalty, and commitment to Asha
• Bearded Figure: Represents wisdom, maturity, and divine authority

The Three-Layered Wings

Each wing has three rows of feathers, representing fundamental Zoroastrian principles:

• Humata: Good Thoughts - purity of mind and intention
• Hukhta: Good Words - truthful and constructive speech
• Hvarshta: Good Deeds - righteous actions and ethical behavior

The wings also symbolize:

• The soul's ability to rise toward the divine
• Protection and divine guardianship
• Spiritual advancement and progress
• Freedom of choice (humans can "fly" toward good or evil)

The Disk/Circle

• Eternity: The circle represents the eternal nature of the soul
• Divine Glory (Khvarenah): The radiant divine essence that blessed Persian kings
• The Sun: Source of light, representing Ahura Mazda's wisdom
• Cosmic Wholeness: The unity and perfection of creation

The Two Streamers/Ribbons

Two ribbons or tails flow from the circle, often curving or spiraling:

• Spenta Mainyu & Angra Mainyu: The two primordial spirits, good and evil
• Duality of Choice: Humans must choose between Asha and Druj
• Past & Future: The soul's journey through time
• Material & Spiritual: The two aspects of existence

Additional Elements

• Lower Circle/Loop: Sometimes appears below the figure, symbolizing the soul's attachment to the material world or the cycle of existence
• Garment: The figure's clothing represents civilization, culture, and refinement
• Facing Forward: The figure looks ahead, symbolizing progress and advancement

Theological Interpretations

As Fravashi (Guardian Spirit)

The most widely accepted modern interpretation:

• Every person has a fravashi - a divine aspect that existed before birth and continues after death
• The fravashi guides and protects the individual throughout life
• Represents the perfect, divine essence of each person
• The fravashis of the righteous become powerful protectors after death
• Even Ahura Mazda has a fravashi

As Representation of Ahura Mazda

Some scholars and ancient interpretations:

• Direct visual representation of the supreme deity
• Symbol of Ahura Mazda's presence and blessing
• Appears above kings to show divine sanction and authority
• Embodies the divine light and wisdom

As Khvarenah (Divine Glory)

Ancient royal interpretation:

• The divine glory that blessed Persian kings
• A supernatural radiance indicating divine favor
• Could be lost through unrighteous behavior
• Granted legitimate authority to rule

As Universal Human Soul

Contemporary Zoroastrian understanding:

• Represents every human's potential for spiritual elevation
• The choice between good and evil that defines human existence
• The journey of the soul toward perfection and reunion with the divine
• Reminder of the ethical threefold path (good thoughts, words, deeds)

Modern Usage & Cultural Significance

Zoroastrian Identity

The Faravahar has become the universal symbol of Zoroastrian identity:

• Displayed in fire temples and Zoroastrian homes worldwide
• Worn as jewelry by Zoroastrians as a sign of faith
• Appears on Zoroastrian literature, websites, and organizational emblems
• Used in religious ceremonies and celebrations
• Symbol of cultural pride for Parsis and Iranian Zoroastrians

Iranian National Symbol

Beyond its religious meaning, the Faravahar represents Iranian cultural heritage:

• Symbol of ancient Persian civilization and glory
• Represents pre-Islamic Iranian identity
• Used by secular Iranians as a cultural (not religious) emblem
• Appears in Iranian art, architecture, and design
• Embodies Persian values of truth, justice, and ethical behavior

Universal Ethical Symbol

The Faravahar's message resonates beyond Zoroastrianism:

• Represents universal ethical principles (good thoughts, words, deeds)
• Symbolizes human potential for spiritual advancement
• Embodies the struggle between good and evil choices
• Reminder of personal responsibility and free will
• Icon of an ancient wisdom tradition

Variations & Artistic Representations

The Faravahar appears in various artistic forms across history:

• Achaemenid Style: Angular, formal, found on stone reliefs at Persepolis and Behistun
• Sassanian Style: More elaborate, often with additional decorative elements
• Parsi Style: Simplified, stylized versions used by Parsis in India
• Modern Interpretations: Contemporary artists create various stylized versions
• Jewelry Designs: Simplified versions suitable for pendants, rings, and bracelets

Despite variations, core elements remain consistent: the winged disk, human figure, three-tiered wings, and streaming ribbons.

Respectful Use