The International Zoroastrian Community MagazineEst. 1964 · Bombay
Delving into the Depths of an Ancient Icon
As I sit in the serene atmosphere of a fire temple, surrounded by the soothing sounds of Ashem Vohu (Ashem Vohu: the benevolent order) and the gentle glow of the sacred fire, my gaze falls upon the majestic Farohar symbol adorning the walls. This enigmatic emblem has long been a subject of fascination, not only for Zoroastrians but also for scholars and enthusiasts of ancient wisdom. The Farohar, also known as the Winged Disk or the Faravahar, is an iconic representation of the divine, and its significance extends far beyond its aesthetic appeal. To truly comprehend the essence of the Farohar, it is essential to delve into the rich tapestry of Zoroastrian scripture and tradition.
The Farohar is often associated with the Fravashi (Fravashi: the guardian spirit), a concept rooted in the Gathas (Gathas: the oldest and most sacred Zoroastrian scriptures), which are attributed to the prophet Zarathustra himself. According to the Gathas, the Fravashi is the higher self or the spiritual essence that guides and protects an individual on their journey through life. The Farohar, with its outstretched wings and central disk, is seen as a visual representation of this Fravashi, embodying the ideals of spiritual growth, protection, and guidance.
As the renowned Zoroastrian scholar, Dr. Farhang Mehr, notes:
The Farohar symbolizes the union of the spiritual and material worlds, representing the harmony and balance that exist between the two.This harmony is beautifully expressed in the Yasna (Yasna: a Zoroastrian ritual and scripture), where it is written: Ashem Vohu, Yatha Ahu Vairyo, Yatha Aryo, Shyaothananam (Ashem Vohu, Yatha Ahu Vairyo, Yatha Aryo, Shyaothananam: the benevolent order, the choice of the wise, the best of all that is good). This ancient phrase encapsulates the Zoroastrian ethos of striving for balance, wisdom, and goodness in all aspects of life.
The Farohar has undergone various transformations throughout history, with its earliest depictions found in ancient Persian and Mesopotamian art. The symbol's evolution is a testament to the dynamic nature of Zoroastrian tradition, which has always been open to interpretation and adaptation. As the Avestan (Avestan: the language of the Zoroastrian scriptures) texts were translated and transmitted across different cultures, the Farohar symbol absorbed various influences, ultimately becoming the distinctive emblem we recognize today.
According to the Denkard (Denkard: a 9th-century Zoroastrian text), a collection of Zoroastrian traditions and writings, the Farohar was initially used as a symbol of royalty and divine authority. Over time, its meaning expanded to encompass the broader Zoroastrian philosophy, representing the interconnectedness of the spiritual and material realms. As the Denkard states:
The Farohar is a symbol of the divine, a reminder of the sacred bond between the creator and creation.
In modern Zoroastrian practice, the Farohar plays a significant role in various rituals and ceremonies. During the Navjote (Navjote: the initiation ceremony for Zoroastrian youth), the Farohar is often displayed prominently, serving as a reminder of the individual's spiritual journey and their connection to the divine. The symbol is also invoked in prayers and manthras (manthras: sacred chants), such as the Ashem Vohu and the Yatha Ahu Vairyo, which are recited to promote spiritual growth, protection, and well-being.
The Farohar's presence in fire temples and other sacred spaces is a powerful reminder of the Zoroastrian emphasis on spiritual growth and self-reflection. As the Gathas state: Manashni, Gavashni, Kunashni (Manashni, Gavashni, Kunashni: thoughts, words, deeds), highlighting the importance of aligning one's thoughts, words, and actions with the principles of truth, justice, and compassion.
The Farohar's rich symbolism has given rise to various interpretations, each offering a unique perspective on its significance. Some view the symbol as a representation of the sun, with its rays and wings embodying the life-giving and nurturing qualities of the divine. Others see the Farohar as a depiction of the human soul, with its ascent towards the divine representing the individual's spiritual journey.
As the Zoroastrian scholar, Dr. Ramiyar Karanjia, notes:
The Farohar is a multifaceted symbol, reflecting the complexities and nuances of human experience. Its various interpretations are a testament to the richness and depth of Zoroastrian tradition.The Farohar's ability to transcend boundaries and speak to people from diverse backgrounds is a powerful reminder of the universal themes and values that underlie Zoroastrian philosophy.
As I conclude my reflections on the Farohar, I am reminded of the profound wisdom contained within the Zoroastrian scriptures. The Gathas and Yasna offer a timeless and universal message, one that transcends the boundaries of culture and tradition. The Farohar, as a symbol of the divine, represents the eternal and unchanging principles of truth, justice, and compassion that underlie all human experience.
In the words of the Avestan text, Vendidad (Vendidad: a Zoroastrian scripture):
May the wise and the just, the good and the pure, always be guided by the principles of Ashem Vohu and Yatha Ahu Vairyo.As we gaze upon the majestic Farohar, may we be inspired to embody these principles in our own lives, striving for balance, wisdom, and goodness in all that we do.