The International Zoroastrian Community MagazineEst. 1964 · Bombay
Uncovering the Meaning Behind an Ancient Icon
As I sit in the serene ambiance of a fire temple, surrounded by the gentle warmth of the sacred fire, my gaze falls upon the majestic Farohar symbol etched on the wall. This iconic representation of Zoroastrianism, also known as the Winged Disk, has been a subject of fascination for centuries, and its significance extends far beyond its aesthetic appeal. The Farohar is an embodiment of the profound spiritual principles that underlie our ancient faith, and it is essential to delve into its meaning and significance to truly appreciate its importance.
The Farohar symbol is composed of a winged disk with a human figure at its center, often depicted with outstretched arms and legs. This enigmatic image has been interpreted in various ways, but its true meaning can only be understood by exploring the rich tapestry of Zoroastrian scriptures, particularly the Gathas and the Yasna. As the renowned Zoroastrian scholar, Dr. Farhang Mehr, notes, "The Farohar is a symbol of the divine spark within every human being, guiding us towards the path of righteousness and spiritual growth."
According to the Yasna, the Farohar is a representation of the Fravashi, the guardian spirit that watches over and guides each individual. The Fravashi is an integral part of Zoroastrian theology, and its role is to help us navigate the complexities of life and to strive for spiritual perfection. As the Yasna states, "The Fravashi of the righteous ones is like a mighty wind, which blows away the darkness of ignorance and illuminates the path of wisdom."
The Farohar symbol has a long and storied history, dating back to the Achaemenid Empire (550-330 BCE). During this period, the Farohar was used as a royal emblem, adorning the palaces and monuments of the Persian kings. However, its significance extends far beyond its use as a symbol of royal power. As the Zoroastrian scholar, Dr. Mary Boyce, notes, "The Farohar was a powerful symbol of the Zoroastrian faith, representing the divine presence and the connection between the material and spiritual worlds."
The Farohar is a symbol of the divine spark within every human being, guiding us towards the path of righteousness and spiritual growth. - Dr. Farhang Mehr
The Farohar has also been found in various forms of Zoroastrian art and architecture, including the intricate carvings and sculptures that adorn the fire temples. These depictions often feature the Farohar in conjunction with other Zoroastrian symbols, such as the Atash Behram (the victorious fire) and the Barsom (the sacred twigs). As the Yasna states, "The Farohar is like a shining star, which guides us through the darkness and leads us to the realm of eternal light."
The Farohar is more than just a symbol; it represents the very essence of Zoroastrian spirituality. It embodies the principles of Asha (truth and righteousness), Vohu Manah (good mind), and Khshatra Vairya (good rulership). As the Gathas state, "The Farohar is a symbol of the divine presence, which guides us towards the path of righteousness and spiritual growth." The Farohar reminds us of our duty to strive for spiritual perfection, to cultivate a strong sense of morality, and to work towards the betterment of society.
The Farohar also represents the connection between the material and spiritual worlds. It signifies the bridge between the physical and metaphysical realms, reminding us that our actions in this world have consequences in the next. As the Zoroastrian scholar, Dr. Rustom Masani, notes, "The Farohar is a symbol of the eternal and unchanging, which guides us through the ephemeral and changing nature of the material world."
The Farohar plays a significant role in Zoroastrian rituals and ceremonies. During the Yasna ceremony, the Farohar is often invoked, and its presence is felt throughout the ritual. The Farohar is also an integral part of the Namaz (prayer) ritual, where it is recited as a symbol of devotion and spiritual growth. As the Yasna states, "The Farohar is like a sacred mantra, which awakens the divine presence within us and guides us towards the path of righteousness."
The Farohar is also used in various forms of Zoroastrian meditation and contemplation. During these practices, the Farohar is visualized as a symbol of the divine presence, guiding the individual towards a deeper understanding of the self and the universe. As the Gathas state, "The Farohar is a symbol of the infinite and the eternal, which guides us towards the realm of spiritual bliss and enlightenment."
In conclusion, the Farohar symbol is a profound representation of the Zoroastrian faith, embodying the principles of spirituality, morality, and righteousness. As we gaze upon the Farohar, we are reminded of our duty to strive for spiritual growth, to cultivate a strong sense of morality, and to work towards the betterment of society. As the Yasna states, "The Farohar is like a shining star, which guides us through the darkness and leads us to the realm of eternal light."
As I reflect on the significance of the Farohar, I am reminded of the words of the great Zoroastrian prophet, Zarathushtra: "The Farohar is a symbol of the divine presence, which guides us towards the path of righteousness and spiritual growth." May we always remember the profound significance of the Farohar and strive to embody its principles in our daily lives, as we journey towards the realm of spiritual bliss and enlightenment.