Investigation of Soroush's Concept in Avestan and Pahlavi Literature

Abstract

Surūsh (Av. Səraoša), as one of the most venerated deities in Zoroastrian religion, holds a special position in the hierarchy of Zoroastrian deities. Surūsh is one of the few among Zoroastrian deities who are attested in the Gathas. These questions will be addressed in this research: What is the relation Surūsh with other Zoroastrian deities? What is Surūsh's status in Gathas and other Avestan and Pahlavi texts? What is his function in the events of after life? In Avestan and Pahlavi texts, Surūsh is the Deity of obedience and observance in the Mazdean tradition. Surūsh receives and obeys the divine instructions and is ever-vigilant to guard the people against the threats of Ahriman (angra Mainyu). Surūsh would evaluate the works of every person together with two other deities, Mithra and Rashnu, before the soul crosses the Chinvat Bridge. This research is based on the careful study of the Avestan and Pahlavi texts

Keywords

• surūsh
• mithra
• ahriman
• gathas
• zoroastrian deities