|
HISTORY OF THE PERSIAN EMPIRE |
Translated by E. W. West, from Sacred Books of the East, Oxford University Press, 189.
1. Satisfaction (shnokhar) to the creator Ohrmazd, and obeisance to the Mazda-worshipping religion.
2.
The ninth book (baba) is about the Has and Fargards of the various Nasks; the
object of procuring the division of those portions which exist being owing to
the quantity of what is in each one of the Nasks; also an explanation of a
suitable selection therefrom, such as is an epitome (nisangag-1) of the abundant
detail therein.
1.
Glorification for the Mazda-worshipping religion which is the ordinance of
Ohrmazd opposed to the demons.
2.
Of the Sudgar there are twenty-two fargards. and the first fargard is the
Yatha-ahu-vairyo, just as the Yatha-ahu-vairyo formula is as it were the
beginning (bunih) of the religion, and from it is the formation of the Nasks
which, though about the first six sciences (danishno), have also demonstrated
the existence of the highest of other sciences in its own place.
3.
And here it speaks about the power and success owing to uttering the
Yatha-ahu-vairyo formula at the beginning of actions. 4. One utterance when one
wishes to say anything to any one; one when he wishes to beg of any one; and one
when he goes to work. 5. Two when he wishes to confer his blessing. 6. Four when
it is for the homage of the chiefs of creation (rado franamishnih), or the
ceremony of a season-festival [Gahambar]. 7. Five when it is for carrying off
the fiend. 8. Six when it is for power; and six when it is for the success of a
battle. 9. Seven when it is for the ceremonial of the archangels, or when one
wishes to perform the ceremonial of the archangels. 10. Eight when it is for the
ceremonial of a guardian spirit of the righteous. 11. Nine when one wishes to
cast seed; into his land. 12. Ten when one wishes to allow procreation. 13.
Eleven when one goes to ask for a wife. 14. Twelve when one expects to go up on
a mountain. 15. Thirteen when one wishes to go to an inhabited district
(rudastik-1); twelve when he goes out pathless; and one when he wishes to
proceed by a ford through the water.
16.
About the place where one has to utter the first Yatha-ahu-vairyo for smiting
the demons. 17. About the good results (dahishnan) of a suitable recital of the
words of the Ahunwar, the summary of everything for Zartosht to utter. 18. And
about the fact that, through chanting forth every single word of the Ahunwar
with a virtuous intention, a demon is disabled, and there is protection of
person and property from the adversary.
19.
About the division of the twenty-one Nasks, likewise, according to the first,
second, and third lines (gas) of the Ahunwar. 20. About the increase of the
creatures owing to the liberal thought, word, and deed of a righteous person;
owing to the priests having become numerous, and the reverence of him who is
making them numerous, and owing to the perpetual meditation of righteousness and
the existence of its recompense.
21.
Righteousness is perfect excellence.
1.
The second fargard, Ashem-vohu, is about the praise of righteousness which is
the reward of the religion, and the want of praise at the bridge of judgment
owing to enmity (patyanih) to righteousness.
2.
Of righteousness perfect is the excellence.
1.
The third fargard, Yenghe-hatam, is about the formation of mankind by slow
increase, and, when they live on for fifty years, their slowly becoming dust;
the coming of death even to him who is very pleasantly living, as regards
mankind, at the climax (barino) of his life; and the happiness of the worldly
existence is given only to the worthy, on account of their love of
righteousness; the rest are passed by. 2. And also this, that he who is produced
by the demons, or is proceeding to the demons, or has committed falsehood, is
the opulent person who gives nothing to a worthy supplicant.
3.
Righteousness is perfect excellence.
1.
The fourth fargard, Yanim-mano [= the first 2 words of the introduction to the
first Gatha], is about where a gradual development (der-zahishnih) of that which
is for the future existence is best; and, secondly, that which occurs now when
the wisdom, instructed eloquence, diligence, and energetic effort, which are the
utilizers of life, are with one, and these five misusers of it -- greediness,
want of energy, indolence, defilement, and illicit intercourse -- are not with
one. 2. This, too, that these five defects existed in Dahak [Zohak], and owing
to that, moreover, Faridoon is irritated with him, and smites him in revenge for
Yim [Jamshed].
3.
About the heinousness of these four vices, which are drunkenness, knavish
companionship, apostasy, and selfishness, and the grievous results therefrom. 4.
And this, too, that Yim [Jamshed] drove away these four vices from the world,
and then was able to prepare immortality. 5. About avoidance of him who, through
any statement, is producing a thief as an orator (akhun), and of acquiescence
with a hasty unoratorical statement of a companion. 6. And this, too, that he
who propagates very evil commands in the world gives stout-heartedness to the
fiend.
7.
About the clamor of a poor distressed one for a perfect remedy, and the
repelling derangement (lakhvar-pafshirishnih), unacceptableness, unblessedness,
and want of Gatha lore of the distresser arisen from the clamor of the
distressed one. 8. About the connection of satisfying distress on true and
reasonable complaint, and the reasonable complaining of true complainers, by him
who has been an inferior judge, and gradually up to the highest adjudicator who
is Ohrmazd.
9.
The excellence of righteousness is perfect.
1.
The fifth fargard, Khshmaibya, is about the forgetfulness of a father for a son,
a son for a father, a brother for a brother, a friend for a friend, a husband (manpato)
for a wife (narik), and a wife for a husband in a measurable time, through
excess and festivity (khang); and the unforgetfulness of the spirit of the
Gathas for so many reciters and chanters of the Gathas. 2. About the complaint
of the spirit of the Gathas when a high-priest, although priest of the
country-folk (dehigano), passes away in an out-district, and the body of that
man does not come back to his own land; whatever is relating to that, and,
besides that, what is to be born in that land, and the oppressiveness of
apostates which arises. 3. About the superior power of the spirit of the Gathas,
and also that of liberality, in preserving the soul from hell.
4.
Excellence that is perfect is righteousness.
1.
The sixth fargard, Ad-ta-vakhshya, is about the perfection of the five
excellences: the first through righteousness, the second through virtuous
offspring, the third through land producing vegetation, the fourth through
flocks of sheep, and the fifth through training in industry. 2. About the
distribution of fortune to the diligent; and of destitution to the indolent. 3.
About the acquirement of fortune singly sitting, two-fold even walking,
three-fold hastening, four-fold even running, five-fold even carrying on a
horse, six-fold even driving on a road, seven-fold by understanding legal
proceedings, eight-fold by good protection even of wealth, nine-fold by
intelligence and diligence in the cultivation of land, and ten-fold by providing
the teaching of the bounteous texts [the liturgy = mansar-spend].
4.
About the grievous sorrow of an aged man, owing to the indolence of any one in
youth. 5. About the four things through which, when a man has amassed them in
his youth, he becomes very pleased in old age: first, virtuous learning; second,
productive wealth; third, a good wife; and fourth, a prosperous dwelling. 6.
About the five store-holders of perfect excellence: industry, diligence,
contentment, guileless understanding (nirikht-hushih), and provision of means.
7.
About abstaining from sitting with drunkards. 8. And this, too, that he does not
drink varieties of wine (mae-gunagano) with the approval of the sacred beings,
who becomes a viciously-disposed assailant and annoyer of others, and a
disturber (kepinidar) of duties, through drinking varieties of wine. 9. And
this, too, that thou shouldst eat that which is your food where there is a
suitable place. 10. And where it is eaten by thee it should be lightly, it
should not be heavily, so that, when it is eaten by thee, a good work is
performed, and there is abstinence from sin. 11. And, so that what thou eatest
shall be immortally joyful to thee, where there are poor, provide them a share,
and the poor will bless thee; and, as to a poor man who is righteous, the
opinion is that his blessing is best.
12.
Excellence that is perfect is righteousness.
1.
The seventh fargard, Te-ve-urvata, is about the exhibition to Zartosht of the
nature of the four periods in the millennium of Zartosht. 2. First, the golden,
that in which Ohrmazd displayed the religion to Zartosht. 3. Second, the silver,
that in which Vishtasp received the religion from Zartosht. 4. Third, the steel,
the period within which the organizer of righteousness, Adarbad Mahraspandan,
was born. 5. Fourth, the period mingled with iron is this, in which is much
propagation of the authority of the apostate and other villains, as regards the
destruction of the reign of religion, the weakening of every kind of goodness
and virtue, and the disappearance of honor and wisdom from the countries of
Iran. 6. In the same period is an account of the many perplexities and torments
(zakhami-hastano) of the period for that desire of the life of the good which
subsists in seemliness.
7.
Perfect righteousness is excellence.
1.
The eighth fargard, Hvaetumaiti, is about the abstinence of mankind, for special
propitiation, from being unreliant upon religion, on account of reverence for
the evil spirit; that from the habit of being ungirdled [[i.e. without kusti]],
on account of reverence for Andar [=Indra] and that for Shovar [Av. Sauru]; that
from walking with one boot, on account of reverence for Taurvo [Av. Tauru] and
Zaricho [Av. Zairicha]; that from being fully inquisitorial, on account of
reverence for Akatash [Av. Akatasha]; and that from the habit of being without a
serpent-scourge, on account of reverence for all the demons.
2.
About the hungry intention (gushnako-minishnih) of him who eats and drinks
chattering; the delight of the demons on that account; and advice as regards not
speaking a word during eating and drinking. 3. As to the praise and
gratification of the sacred beings before eating and drinking, and also on
finishing; and the purity of the mouth owing to its praise of righteousness. 4.
About him whose ownership of any good work, that they may perform, does not
attain to the best existence, on account of not possessing a high-priest by
habit.
5.
About the period of the ceremonial of Srosh, the righteous, being mostly on the
passing away of the first half of the night, and the announcement of him who is
the celebrator (yashtar) is for his protection from the fiend spirit. 6. The
period of the ceremonial of Rashn and Ashtad is mostly after that, in the
jurisdiction (radih) of the Ushahin, and the announcement of him who is the
celebrator is abundance of grain. 7. The period of the ceremonial of Mihr of the
wide cattle-pastures, and of Rama Hvastra [West: 'the spirit of the pleasure of
eating'], is mostly in the jurisdiction of the Havan, and the announcement of
him who is the celebrator is a flock of sheep. 8. The period of the ceremonial
of Ardwahisht, and also of the fire of Ohrmazd, is mostly in the jurisdiction of
the Rapithwin, and the announcement of him who is the celebrator is an
assemblage of righteousness. 9. The period of the ceremonial of the lofty lord
of females, the descendant of waters [Ahura Berezant Apam Napat], and also of
the water created by Ohrmazd is mostly in the jurisdiction of the Uzerin, and
the announcement of him who is the celebrator is a troop of heroes (viran ramako).
And the period of the ceremonial of the guardian spirits of the righteous [Arda
Frawash], of the females with troops of heroes and years of pleasant dwelling,
of the might which is well-formed and handsome, as well as victorious and
created by Ohrmazd, and of the fighting which is in the ascendant, is mostly in
the jurisdiction of the Aiwisruthrem, and the announcement of him who is the
celebrator is the origin of all excellence, and the produce of all manifestation
of righteousness.
11.
Righteousness is perfect excellence.
1.
The ninth fargard, Yathaish, is about the devilry, the blighted destiny, the
complete pollution, the grievous stench, the heinous sinfulness, and the
annoyance to all spiritual and worldly virtue of the sodomite. 2. The atonement
for grievous sinfulness and the appropriation of great good works by him who is
a molester, and the awful sinfulness of him who is a propitiator, of that
sinner. 3. Of the seven one mentions as evil, who are accounted equal to the
evil spirit in vileness -- such as Az-i Dahak [Zohak] in witchcraft, the serpent
Srobar in violence, Vadak in producing evil progeny, Tur-i Bradar-vakhsh in
destroying a righteous man, and an apostate in grievous sinfulness -- the
permitter and performer of unnatural intercourse are unique in heinous
sinfulness.
4.
Perfect is the excellence of righteousness.
1.
The tenth fargard, Ya-shyaothana, is about the complaint of the spirit of fires
to Ohrmazd owing to seven descriptions of people. 2. First, owing to domestics
considering it as contemptible and in an unresisting state (ajangih), molesting
it immoderately, and making use of it with unwashed hands; also the damsel who
has introduced fire into the sole of her foot, and the bursting of the blister (avilag);
and a weapon brought out into its splendor. 3. Second, the complaint owing to
the carriers of fire from that abode [where the provision of care for fire is as
a law to them, to that abode] where the provision of care for fire is not as a
law to them. 4. And there, owing to the arrival and preparation of the demons,
it lay stupefied, like a powerful youth who is feverish and in a languid state;
and its cure from that sickness (ayoyakih) was by bringing forward to it their
pure sandalwood, or benzoin, or aloe-wood, or pomegranate, or whatever there was
of the most odoriferous of plants. 5. Third, the complaint owing to the hussy [jeh]
unto whom it happens, through menstruation, that the stench and filth owing to
the menstruation is brought to it (the fire); and its sickness and stupefaction
owing thereto are as written above. 6. Fourth, the complaint owing to the hussy
who, dropping her knee on to the fire-stand, arranged her curls; the falling of
damp and moisture from her head, with the hair and filth therefrom, into the
fire; the consumption of it discontentedly, and the sickness and stupefaction
owing thereto. 7. Fifth, the complaint owing to the father, or guardian, of a
child for not keeping the child away from the fire; and the bodily refuse and
other unlawfulness that come upon it from such children. 8. Sixth, the complaint
owing to the adversity which the unpurified infidel (agdeno) may bring upon it,
by blowing the breath of his mouth upon it in directing its use, and it becomes
incalculable. 9. Seventh, the complaint -- which, one says, is more awful and
more grievous -- owing to those who use it as an ordeal for a falsehood, and,
when it is made evident thereby as to the acquitted and convicted, they become
of a different opinion about it.
10.
At the place of complaint that which is polluted is put forward together with
that which is pure, and the increase of it (the fire) is through lawful and
unlawful operation, its burning alone and increasing are such as when both would
be as a necessity for it, and undesired and rapid burning and increasing are
those which are polluted by burning and insatiably consuming; and in that which
is an operation unlawfully -- the burning alone and increasing being [such as
when] both would be as a necessity [for it] -- the increase is troubled.
11.
This, too, he says: 'I am not of the world here, and from here I will extricate
myself, from the earth up to the sky; I am also thy son, more to thee than any
of the other creatures.' 12. And Ohrmazd spoke to him thus: 'So thou shouldst
stand over the fire, in thy proper duty as [a spirit], carrying that club; [it
is a substantial means, because I produce it, through which] thou turnest off
[the whole bodily existence], some to the endless light, and some to the endless
darkness.'
13.
This, too, that he who shall provide care for fire has paid the greatest
reverence unto Ohrmazd. 14. The propitiation of the righteous is the best thing,
and their vexation is the worst; when pleased they favor one, and it is the law
of the sacred beings that they promote; [when vexed they wound, and it is the
demon that they restrict.
15.
It is righteousness that is perfect excellence.]
1.
The eleventh fargard, the Yasna [Haptanghaiti], is about the assembly of the
angels of the spiritual existences on account of the complaint of fire, and the
complaint of fire in the assembly, with its statement of this, too: 'I am not of
the world here, and from here I will extricate myself, from the earth up to the
sky, and there I will shine on to the earth of seven regions, like the moon and
sun and even the divinely-produced stars when they shine with their own light.'
2. The words of Ohrmazd about the just complaining of fire as regards the
contamination of the creatures, the impossibility of keeping the fire
undisturbed, and satisfying the fire concerning the creation of the creatures
for the worldly existence, along with the disturbed condition of fire, too,
owing to the impossibility of maintaining the uncreated state which, with the
freedom from disturbance of fire also, was better; likewise proclaiming the care
of it. 3. And the speech of the fire was thus: 'If there be not that one mode
whereby I may thus shine, owing to those that have acted according to my
request, thou art aware, O Ohrmazd! there are some among the creatures that I
cannot grant so much to; therefore carry me away, O Ohrmazd! then give me away
there! and be thou carrying me away into the midst of Eranvej [1]!'
4.
The propitious [2] fire is from the creator Ohrmazd, and it is produced by him
in a dwelling, without being handled (bara sudako) [3], by aid of bringing
together [4]. 5. And so he spoke in words thus: 'Such is thine own growth, thou
who art my fire! in every dwelling where thou comest, and in every village,
every community, and every province; and as exalted as thou are the water and
plants, and he, too, who is a guardian spirit of the righteous, when they shall
bring forward holy-water for delivering up to thee [5]; and, when they shall
bring forward to thee firewood which is dry, a person -- through the light which
he observes -- has spoken of it thus: "This is the Gushnasp [6]
fire."'
6.
About so much reward of the hewer and inspector and kindler of the firewood --
when all three shall do it for the sake of affection -- as they are possessing
righteousness. 7. About the character and reward of the washer (asnotar) and the
producer of the purity and cleansing of that which the fire has dropped
[7], of the introducer of the firewood and the washer upwards [8], of the
stirrer of the fire and the carrier-away of the firewood, who are strictly
directed; the lawful work done with a cooking-pot and such-like,
and the sin of him who is a disturber of it. 8. About the destroyer of that
which the fire has dropped, and the introducer of damp firewood into it.
9. About the blessing of fire for people by whom it is satisfied.
10.
About advice as regards not bringing to the fire that which is due to theft, or
the power of extortion, and the grievous bridge-judgment [9] of him who is
bringing it; also the defilement (aludan) and hurting of the fire from
that which occurs when he likewise consecrates his hoard (hanbarishno),
owing to the corruption by the demons [10] thus arisen. 11. This, too, that it is
owing to want of attention to fire when it is not at every menstrual
excitement they produce, in a woman assisted by a propensity for a son
(pus radih), that the progeny is a son. 12. And about the penalty for
[11] the progress of other impropriety which occurs to fire; also about the
person who has attained to the guardianship of fire and does not lawfully
control it.
13.
About an admonition to Zartosht as to consecrating to the sacred beings anything
whatever which one eats, and not eating what is unconsecrated. 14. About
the wish of' the evil spirit that no one shall be performing (vadidunan-ado)
worship and obeisance to the sacred beings, and that the people shall
possess no ruler and high-priest, so that no desire of theirs shall arise for
any virtuousness. 15. About an admonition as to indispensably worshipping the
sacred beings with the best ceremonial, that of a priest (asruko) without sin; or
with an average one of a priest whose sin is not more than one Aredush [12]
without a basis (a-bun); or with the lowest one, that of a priest whose sin
is not more than one Khor [13] on a basis (pavan bun). 16. Whoever, in a
village of Mazda-worshippers, has not chanted the sacred hymns after
fifteen years of age, through sinfulness, is as a dog they have thrown
provisions to, and it has occurred for a basis of the sin of unseasonable
chattering [14]; also the inadmissibility of his soul by Mahraspand [15].
17.
About the coming of Astwihad [16], at all to mortals whom death has
reached [17], and also whom it has not 18. About the ideas of the wicked,
that the best existence does not exist, that the production of the renovation of
the universe does not occur, that there are no dead whom they raise
up thereby, and it is not that change one attains. .19. This, too,
that is false, for the same reason they observe, being wicked;
because the best existence exists, there occurs a production of the
renovation which is good, they raise up the dead thereby, and thus one attains
that change.
20.
About an admonition as to not making lamentation and weeping over those passed
away; and, after the passing away of every righteous one of the religion to the
spirits, one is not to augment the distress of the very spirit of life by
making lamentation and weeping over the departed. 21. And this, too, that the
guardian spirits of the righteous claim no lamentation and weeping after their
own ceremonial and the blessing of righteous men. 22. This, too, that the body
of every one is not of like will with the soul; food is the desire of the body,
and also a store of wealth; righteous action is the desire of the soul, and also
the gifts which they give away.
23.
About an inquiry of the righteous Zartosht as to who it is who has banished (aparinido)
all goodness and perfection from his own self, but thinks them not
banished, and does not complain of that loss [18]. 24. And the reply of Ohrmazd,
that it is he who is deceived [19] by his own tongue through the utterance of
words, so that, through speaking falsely, he has become worthy of death. 25.
This, too, that for him it is the weapon of the evil spirit; even so complete
mindfulness is the reign of Spandarmad [20], and thus a liar is more a power for
the religion a man, when a man, on account of dullness of thought, gives no
reply, so that he may not speak falsely through dullness of thought.
26.
This, too, that he worships the demons with thousand-fold holy-water, who
establishes him who is not a member of the community [21] in the Zoti duty [22],
sooner than him who is a wise Zoti. 27. And this, too, that thou shouldst fetch
him who is a member of the community for the Zoti duty, not him who is not a
member of the community, for thus thy advance is to the supreme heaven (Garothman).
28. Also this, that a bad Zoti is worse from the Zoti duty.
29.
This, too, that that which is the earliest controller (ayukhtar) of sin is
thought which is subdued [23], then forgiveness, then shame, and then
listening; and afterwards, through the sinfulness of the fiend [24], one becomes
a promise-breaker. 30. This, too, that they shall bring every man who is a
wounder before the convocation composed of any priest who is a controller
of recitation (srayishno ayukhtar), any priest who is of the district (adehik),
any priest who is of an out-district (auzdehik), and any priest who is the man's
own kinsman.
31.
'Thus say I unto thee, O Spitaman! let there no breach of promise;
neither when the conversation, that they would make a support, was with
the wicked, and there is no great judiciousness in it; nor when it was with
those of thine own religion, the righteous, as to anything of great
judiciousness; because both of them are promises, both with the wicked
and the righteous [25].'
32.
It is the excellence of righteousness that is perfect.
NOTES:
1.
The primeval home of Mazda-worship, the abode of Yim, and the scene of
Zartosht's first promulgation of the religion, the Airyanem vaeja of the Avesta
(see Vd1.1,3 Vd2.21, Bd20.32, Bd32.3).
2.
Pahl. afzunik; the spenishta ('most bounteous') fire of Y17.11, Y36.3. According
to Pahl. Yas. 17.67 it 'stands in heaven before Ohrmazd in a spiritual state.'
3.
Or it may mean 'being rubbed out,' that is,' by friction; but compare the
use of the word sudakih in Dk8, Chap.37.19.
4.
Referring probably to the establishment of a sacred fire by bringing together
every possible variety of fire that can be obtained.
5.
Merely as a formal offering, or for purifying the fire-stand, not for mingling
with the fire itself.
6.
One of the three original sacred fires, which is said to have been established,
in the time of king Kay Khusraw, upon the Asnavand mountain in Atur-patakan, not
far from Lake Chechast (see Bd17.7; Zs11.8-10).
7.
B srakhto, K srakhto, both here and in #8; compare Av. srasc.
8.
Pahl. fraz asnatar must mean one who washes in the mode defined by the
Av. frasnaiti, as distinguished from upasnaiti, in Vd8.98, 99, Ep. II, 3.2; this
mode is explained as lalaik, 'upwards,' and distinguished from the frodguno,
'downward mode,' in Ep. II, 4.2.
9.
B inserts 'thus arisen through the demons,' the same phrase as concludes the
section.
10.
K has 'owing to a single word of the demons,' substituting aevak gobishno for
ahukinishno.
11.
Assuming that pa stands for pavan.
12.
See Bk. 8, Chaps. 20.64, 31.39.
13.
A sin twice as great as an Aredush (see Bk. 8, Chap. 31.39)
14.
The sin of talking while eating, praying, or any other occasion when a prayer (vaj)
has been taken inwardly, as a spell, and is not yet spoken out.
15.
A personification of the liturgy, Av. mãthra spenta, 'the bounteous
text.' [Holy Word]
16.
Av. Asto-vidhotu, one of the demons of death (see Bd28.35; Dd37.44).
17.
Those who have attained old age, the natural time of death.
18.
B has 'and there is no complaint of the loss.'
19.
K zivinido.
20.
The female archangel who has special charge of the earth and virtuous women (see
Sls. 15.20-24); she is a personification of Av. Av. Spenta Armaiti, 'bountiful
devotion,' of which phrase the latter word is translated by Pahl.
bundak-minishnih, 'complete mindfulness.' See also Bk 8, Chap. 9.3, and S.B.E.,
vol. xviii, pp.393, 396.
21.
K adahm; B has kheshm, 'wrath,' here, but not so in § 27.
22.
See Bk. 8, Chap. 7, 5, 9.
23.
B has 'he who is a controller of sin is Vohuman, owing to thinking of the
spirits, which is subdued.'
24.
K has only through sinfulness.'
25.
This admonition occurs repeatedly (see Chap. 20.5; Yt10.2; AV52.7)
1.
The twelfth fargard, Ushtavaiti [1], is about the exaltation of Zartosht through
the satisfaction of water, and the hope of all creatures for him. 2 And
about the impure recitation of a text, when [2] the text is not uttered by a
high-priest. 3. This, too that the text which a man who is corrupted may offer
is an impropriety (adinaih) for that which is an uncorrupted place. 4. This,
too, is declared, that a greedy man whose belly is filled by accumulation -- and
the end of every sin is, to him, only for the gratification of the body -- one
considers just like a gallows to which there is a foundation (sipo) of
every impurity. 5. This, too, that a bird (vae) practices that habit (shan) even
that it kills those outright which have become large in our midst, which
are the serpents produced by the demons. 6. This, too, that for invocation
(azbayishno) of the sacred beings thinking with speaking, speaking with acting,
and acting without deceitfulness are effectual.
7.
About the pure goodness of the archangels, the union of their thoughts, words, and
deeds together; their bountifulness, nurturing, and protection are the cause
[3] of the prosperity of the world. 8. About the production of Zartosht by Ohrmazd
with a goodness like his own. 9. This, too, that whoever gives anything to the
disciples of Zartosht, his reward and recompense are just as though the thing
had been given by him to Zartosht [4].
10.
It is perfect excellence that is righteousness.
NOTES:
1.
The appellation of the first ha of the second Gatha (Y43) which begins with the
words "ushta ahmai yahmai ushta;" it is here written aushtavaito
in Pahlavi.
2.
Assuming that mun, 'which,' stands for amat; the Pazand of both words
being practically the same. Or, it may be, 'also him who does not utter the text
through a high-priest.'
3.
B omits shan, 'the cause of.'
4.
Compare: ' Inasmuch as ye have done it unto one of the of these my brethren, ye
have done it unto me.' (Matthew 25.40.)
1.
The thirteenth fargard, Tat-thwa-peresa [1], is about the strength and
mightiness of the spirit of the sacred cake [2]. 2. This, too, that every night
the demons rush from hell [3] into the world, to injure and cause the death of
the creatures; and, when people consecrate a sacred cake, that spirit
descends to attack and keep back the demons, and to engage in combat with the
demons ninety-nine times during every night; he also smites and stupefies them,
and keeps them back from destroying the world.
3.
This, too, that any one whatever of those men who utter these words [4] in
prayer becomes righteous, except those men who shall contentedly, or wishfully,
carry out a command for evil deeds, and they deceive (suftend), or make others
deceive, by statements proposed to them; and whose evil thoughts are
thus more than their good thoughts, their evil words more than their good
words, and their evil deeds more than their good deeds. 4. About carrying
off the reliance produceable that a sin worthy of death is the obliteration (fraz
mushtano) of other sin, like an awful and mighty wind when it sweeps
swiftly over the plain [5].
5.
Of righteousness the excellence is perfect.
NOTES:
1.
The first three words of the second ha of the second Gatha (Y44.1), here written
tad-spa-peres in Pahlavi.
2.
See Bk. 8, Chap. 29.2
3.
K omits 'from hell,' and B omits 'night.'
4.
Meaning probably Yas. 44.
5.
A favorite metaphor derived from the Avesta text (see Pahl. Vend. 3.149;
MX.52.19).
1.
The fourteenth fargard, Ad-fravakhshya [1], is about Ohrmazd's showing to
Zartosht the terrible condition of the soul of Kersasp [2]; the dismay of
Zartosht owing to that terrible condition; the sorrowful speaking of Kersasp as
regards the slaying of multitudes, for which mankind extol him, whereby
abstentions from sin occurred; and the recognition of him by the creator,
Ohrmazd, as smiting his fire. 2. The supplication of Kersasp for the best
existence from Ohrmazd for those exploits when the serpent Srobar [3] was slain
by him, and the violence of that adversary; when Gandarep [4] with the golden
heels was smitten by him, and the marvellousness of that fiend;
when the Veshko progeny [5] who were descendants of Nivik and Dashtanik
were slain by him, and the grievous harm and disaster owing to them; and
when the mighty wind [6] was appeased by him, and brought back
from damaging the world to benefiting the creatures; and for that which happens
when owing to confinement [7], Dahak [Zohak] becomes eager, rushes on for the
destruction of the world, and attempts (girayedo) the annihilation of the
creatures; when he (Kersasp) is roused to smite him, and to tame that
powerful fiend for the world and creatures.
3.
The enmity of fire to Kersasp, through the distress which he occasioned to it,
and the keeping of him away [8] [from heaven; also the friendship of Goshorun
[9] for him, through the prosperity which he occasioned to it, and the
protection of him] from hell. 4. The petition of Zartosht to the fire to have
compassion upon what was owing to Kersasp's sin; the compliance (hanjaftano)
of the fire with that petition, and the departure of the soul of Kersasp
to the ever-stationary existence [10].
5.
Of righteousness perfect is the excellence.
NOTES:
1.
The first two words of the third ha of the second Gatha (Y45.1), here written
ad-fravakhshe (B) and ad-fravakhsha (K) in Pahlavi. This chapter has been
already translated in S.B.E., vol. xviii, pp. 370-372.
2.
See Bk. 8, Chap. 13.12; S.B.E., vol. xviii, pp.369-382.
3.
See Bk. 8, Chap. 35.13.
4.
Av. Gandarewa of Yt.5.38, 15.28, 19.41; the 'watery demon' of MX. 27.50.
5.
Reading hun Veshko, the Av. hunavo Vaeskaya of Yt5.54, 57, who were enemies of
the warrior Tusa; but the hunavo of Nivika and of the Dashtayani were slain by
Keresaspa (see Yt19.41). It is also possible to read khuno-dako,
'blood-producing.'
6.
When it becomes a storm-demon, the vato-daeva of Vd10.14, instead of being the
angel of useful wind.
7.
In the volcano, Mount Damawand, where he was confined by Faridoon in olden
times, and whence he is expected to break loose hereafter (see Bd12.31, Bd29.9;
Byt3.55-61).
8.
The words in brackets occur only in K; their meaning is, however, given in the
Pahlavi Rivayat accompanying Dd. and quoted in S.B.E., vol. xviii, pp.379, 380.
The enmity of the fire to Kersasp was owing to its having been extinguished
(when kindled upon the serpent Srobar) by the upsetting of Kersasp's caldron, as
described in Y9.11 and Yt19.40.
9
Av. geus urva, 'the soul of the ox,' the spirit which departed from the primeval
ox when the evil spirit attacked it; she is supposed to be the heavenly
protector of all animals, and is also called Drvaspa (see Yt9.1; Bd3.14, 18,
Bd4.2-5; Sls22.14).
10.
A locality intermediate between heaven and hell, where the souls of those whose
sins and good works exactly balance remain in a passive and immovable state till
the resurrection (see Sls6.2; MX7.18, MX12.14; Dd20.3).
1.
The fifteenth fargard, Kamnamaeza [1], is about the arrival of Astwihad [2] upon
the spot, and the insecurity of any one from him; also the non-continuance of
the mortal body and decaying (farsavand) wealth of any one of the mortals
summoned is death [3]. 2. And this, too, that Astwihad shall carry off all
mortals by that awful and proclaimed marvel, and they are not saved from him
[4]; each one, indeed, saves only that which is the soul. 3. This, too, that the
soul alone sees the reward and bridge [5] of the spiritual existence, and
embodied it does not see such things; if; when embodied, it could
have seen like that, then it would not have committed the sin really originating
with it, even for anything whatever of the ease and comfort of the
worldly existence, nor shrunk (manshido) from the first good work.
4.
About the hideousness and frightfulness of the body of man after death, and only
that which is considered by every one the most precious of desirable things is
undecaying (afarsak). 5. As regards the casting away of the dust, and also
living people, that which is more nearly connected therewith is
uninhabitableness [6] and its duration. 6. And when, too, this way, the
consciousness is in the vicinity of the body [7], and the dog and bird go forth
for the dismemberment of the body, the frightening of the consciousness by them
is like that of a sheep by a wolf; also its disputing with the dog and bird
about the dismemberment of the body, the reciting (mardano) of words spiritually
at first repelling them, thinking the body is alive. 7. And, afterwards, when
the body is dismembered by them, the hastening of the consciousness to the
vicinity of the dismembered body, just like a female (denudako) sheep when it
hastens on to its young ones; and its noticing -- with grievous
unhappiness [8] for the body -- and recounting where the features (demagano) of
that body were in happiness, and to what misery it has now come. 8. And, when
that body became sinful in its lifetime, about its not accepting, during that
lifetime, that which the consciousness repeatedly well-endeavoured to promote
for that body, as regards abstaining from sin and practising good works.
9.
This, too, that thy time of worldly happiness has occurred, and that of
misery is long. 10. This, too, that tbe people who live on, in the worldly existence,
a hundred years are less than those who do not live a hundred years; the
progress of a lifetime, little by little, and the rushing on of a
lifetime; wife and property and the rest of worldly things all
leaving you at once, and coming to another person. 11. And this, too, that --
when mankind mostly keep up any statement (nisang-ich) or register (aevarjo)
which they have drawn out (nazi-hend) [9] about ordainable supplies in a
friendly or inimical (patyanmond) way, which is more particularly expedient for
them -- a supply, suitable for the discreet, of the rest of that which is
constantly desirable, is to be extracted therefrom, and one is to keep up
its preparation with his own.
12.
About the seven immortal rulers who are produced in the region of Khwaniras
[10], and also about the ordaining of their glory and the goodness, too, of
their assistants living and privileged in both existences. 13. The tree
opposed to harm [11] is on Eranwej [12], in the place of most excavations (freh-niganan
gas). 14. Gok-pato [13] is in foreign [14] countries. 15. Peshotan [15], son of
Vishtasp, is in Kangdez [16] the hundred-moated (sad-gandak), wherein there
are a myriad spears (drafsh), those of the exalted who wear black marten fur,
who are righteous listeners of the religion [17], out of the retinue (akharih)
of Pehshotan, son of Vishtasp. 16. Fradakhshto, son of the mortal
Khumbiks [18], who is predominant on the waters flowing in channels. 17.
Ashavazd, son of Porudakhshto [19], who is predominant over the most manifest
among uplands, the plain of Peshinas [20]. 18. Barazak [21] the causer of
strife. 19. 'And the eighth Kayan [22] who was renowned, O Vishtasp!
it is he whom one calls Kay-Khosraw, who produces even an advance of thy
religion of the Mazda-worshippers, and also understands about it; who gives my
good practices further blessings, so that the world [23] maintains my doings
with benedictions.'
20.
Righteousness is perfect excellence.
NOTES:
1.
The appellation of the fourth, and last, ha of the second Gatha (Y46), which
begins with the words kam nemoi zam; it is here written kamnamezo
in Pahlavi.
2.
See Chap. 12.17. The connection of the demon of death with Y46 is that the first
few words of that ha are supposed to be repeated by the wicked soul in despair
after death (see Yt22.20, W,; MX2.159; AV17.7).
3.
K has mardum, 'human (?).'
4.
B has the whole of this first clause thus:-'And the unconsumed (apakhshino)
property of him who is surprised by the invisible marvel that he shall
endure, they have not saved from him.' This marvel is probably the supposed
casting of a noose by Astwihad around the neck of the dead to drag him to hell,
which only the righteous are able to cast off.
5.
See Bk. 8, Chaps. 14.8, 24.10.
6.
Corpses are to be deposited in an uninhabited place (see Vd6.44-51, Vd7.45-50;
Dd18).
7.
Compare Dd16.7.
8.
Pahl. ashadih in K, but B has ayadakih, 'remembrance.'
9
Or 'they offer up (uzdahend).'
10.
See Bk. 8, Chap. 8.2. And, regarding these seven rulers, compare Bd. 29.5, 6;
Dd.90.
11.
The many-seeded tree in the wide-formed ocean, whence the seeds of all wild
plants are brought by the rain (see Yt.12.17; Bd.27.2, 3; MX42.37-42).
12.
See Chap. 12.3.
13.
'Gopatshah in Bd. 29.5, 31.20, 22; Byt.2.1; Dd. 90.3, 4; Gopaitoshah in MX.
62.8, 31; and Gopaito in MX. 44.35. All these forms of the name imply that he
was a king, or master, of oxen; and MX. describes him as a Mazda-worshipping
minotaur on the sea-shore, probably the Caspian, or the river Oxus, as Bd. makes
him a brother, or nephew, of Frasiyav the Turanian. His country is called
Saukavastan in Bd., and Gopato in Dd.
14.
Pahl. an-Airan which corresponds with the position of
Saukavastan being between Turkistan and Chinistan, as stated in Bd.29.13, and
that of Gopato being coterminous with Eranwej, as in Dd.90.4. But K, by omitting
the negative prefix, places it 'within the countries of Iran;' and MX. makes
Gopato a chief of Eranwej.
15.
Av. Peshotanu, commonly written Peshyotanu in Pahlavi.
16.
A fortified settlement, to the east of Iran (see Bd.29.10), formed by Siyavakhsh
(see Bk.8, Chap. 13.14) who was first cousin of Vishtasp's great-grandfather
(see Bd. 31.25, 28, 29).
17.
Who are expected to be led into Iran by Peshotan in future times, when he is
summoned by the angels to restore religion to the world after the conflict of
the nations (see Byt.3.25-42).
18.
K has 'Fradakhshto, son of Khumbik the son of Hoshang.' He was evidently
the Fradhakhshti Khunbya of Yt.13.138, who might have been considered as a
descendant of the Haoshyangha mentioned before him in Yt13.
19.
Av. Ashavazdangh Pourudhakhshtayana of Yt5.72, Yt13.112.
20.
Said to be in Kavulistan where Sama Keresaspa lies asleep till summoned to kill
Dahak [Zohak] in the latter times (see Bd.29.7, 11; Byt.3.59-61). It maybe
connected with the vairi Pisanangh of Yt.5.37, where Keresaspa offered
sacrifice, and with the Pishin valley southeast of Qandahar; but Chap. 21.20
seems to place it between Mazendaran and Iran, and MX.62.20 also describes it as
near Mount Demawand. Its name is variously written Peshinash, Peshansih,
Peshyansai, Peshandas, Peshanigas, &c.
21.
Possibly Av. Varaza of Yt.13.101.
22.
Kavi Haosravangh (Kay-Khosraw) is the eighth and last in the list of Kavis, or
Kayans, in Yt.13.132; and was celebrated for his opposition to idolatry (see
Yt.5.49,50; Bd.17.7). This section appears to be an actual quotation from the
Pahlavi version of the Nask, professing to give the words of Zartosht.
23.
K has dehik, 'a provincial.'
1.
The sixteenth fargard, Spenta-mainyu [1], is about effecting the bridge-judgment
of sinners, as declared by revelation. 2. About performing the ceremony (yashto)
for a man and a woman, and it is ordered for the woman before the man;
the fitness for the supreme heaven (garothman) arisen through the liturgy (yashto)
to be recited itself, or through purchasing heaven in the worldly existence
[2].
3.
About the immunity of the soul from hell through the righteousness of having respectfully
given a horse of a good race, the land of a cultivated field, or a
virtuous woman, to a righteous man; and also the woman who gives herself in
marriage to the righteous man; and that liberal good work increases from time
to time [3], and from day to day.
4.
About the bridge penalty of him who is a mourner (navinidar) and self-wounder
in the three nights after a death, and how it is as though they
who are living should again pour melted ore on a human being. 5.
About the punishment for a woman who gives herself in marriage to a righteous
man, and comes away [4] from him; such as when a hedgehog [5] should be
constantly going in and coming out by her sexual organ;
and the cutting off of her way from the best existence. 6. About the
non-deliverance of a soul of the wicked from hell till the future existence. 7.
About the punishment of the wicked there is this, too, it is as
though a sheep which is alive should be remaining tied by the legs, head
downwards, and there should be a specific exudation of its toes through
running at the nose [6].
8.
About the Gathas for an ordeal [7] of the spiritual existence, which is
concealed in every mode, being without a footing (apa-pastako), as it
were, for him who is a righteous chanter of the Gathas.
9.
The excellence of righteousness is perfect.
NOTES:
1.
The first two words of the first ha of the third Gatha (Y47.1), which are
converted into the Pahlavi appellation Spendmaito.
2.
By providing for the performance of the proper ceremonies for the benefit of
one's own soul.
3.
Pahl. vidanaanag vidanaanag, a hybrid equivalent of zamanak zamanak (see Bk.8,
Chap. 35.6 n).
4.
B has 'relapses.'
5.
Compare AV. 70.
6.
Pahl. afash angusto zahih-1-i mayaganik pavan vinik-taj ae. For
mayaganik, 'specific' (which occurs, however, in Bk.8, Chap. 20.166), we can
read masanik, 'tumerous or coagulating,' or we may consider it equivalent to
muyishnik, 'lamentable.'
7.
Compae the reference to the ordeal by fire in Pahl. Yas. 46.6; the earlier part
of the chapter is also somewhat of a homily upon the references to the wicked
and righteous in the same ha.
1.
The seventeenth fargard, Yezi [1], is about where he is who shall commit any
of these five sins [2], and, thereby perverted from the religion, has
diminished his own life and destiny [3]: -- A human being when he contentedly
reverences a demon in spiritual lordship (ahuih) and priestly authority (radih),
one steadfast in religion when he so reverences one un-steadfast in
religion, a teacher when he so reverences one who is no teacher and
ignorant, one acquainted with the Gathas when he so reverences one unacquainted
with the Gathas and unintelligent (anashnas) [4], and a helpful one when
he so reverences an unhelpful and unwise one.
2.
This, too, where also they are who unlawfully slaughter a sheep, or beast of
burden, which diminishes their life and destiny. 3. And so, too, those also
who think scornfully of Ohrmazd, O pure and righteous Spitaman! and their
own religion, the strength of the righteous and thy disciples.
4.
Excellence that is perfect is righteousness.
NOTES:
1.
The first word of the second ha of the third Gatha (Yas. 48.1), here written
yezik in Pahlavi.
2.
B omits 'sins.'
3.
Or 'glory.'
4
So in K, but both MSS. give this clause imperfectly.
1.
The eighteenth fargard, Ad-ma-yava [1], is about the pregnancy of the demon from
him who has eaten and chattered in sinfulness towards Hordad and
Amurdad [2], or who makes water when standing [3], or who
heedlessly sees his semen. 2. And the hussy [4] who spills (juyedo)
anything after sunset (huk-frashmok-dad), or who scatters a morsel (danar)
of food to the north, at night, without a recitation of the Ahunwar [5].
3.
This, too, that only the soul is constantly desirable for the body, even through
this alone, that this perishable body [6] [is a worldly state of righteousness,
and, by rousing up (lala-payamishnih) [7] when thou wouldst sleep on, the
righteousness] is on the advance when thou wouldst have retreated; and the
righteousness, in arising, is like thee in every coming and departure;
through fetching and delivering the breath it shall become good reward, abundant
reward, and the reward of righteousness. 4. When the body shall act so, the soul
is rejoiced and shall utter a blessing for the body thus: 'Happy may it be for
thee, O perishable body! whom I have made tall, and whom I have
brought near to the best existence.' 5. And when the body shall not accept the
progress (afras) of the soul, and says it is evil progress on
rousing up, evil progress on advancing, [and evil progress upwards, the soul is
a demon] [8] and shall offer [lamentable] [8] words thus: 'Evil art thou,
O perishable body! whom I made dwarfish (gashuk), and whom I have
brought near to the worst existence.'
6.
About where there are unaccustomed (aveshako), imperfect, and secret
signs of short life, and the healthfulness of uttering the Ahunwar [9] and Ashem
[10] for it. 7. This, too, that, when thou wouldst squat for making water, thou
recitest the Ahunwar, and the Ashem, afterwards, when thou wouldst stand up; so
that any demon, or fiend, shall least injure thee. 8. And when thou
wouldst go in unto thy wife (narik), thou recitest first the Ahunwar, and the
Ashem, afterwards, when thou wouldst be coming together [11]; for so thou
wouldst be making that, too, which arises -- which is thy son -- more
righteous and more successful through the Ashem. 9. This, too, that, when thou
wouldst go into a house, thou shouldst be offering homage, and do thou utter the
Ahunwar, for the spirit of the house and for everything of the material existence
of the righteous which is and was and will be in that dwelling.
10.
Also about the corruption (tavashtano) of the wicked, and the calamity (sur)
which is unjustly distributed by them in the realm [12].
11.
Excellence that is perfect is
righteousness.
NOTE:
1.
The first three words of the third ha of the third Gatha (Y49.1), here written
ad-ma-iyubo in Pahlavi.
2.
Av. Haurvatat, 'completeness, or health,' and ameretat, 'immortality;' the
archangels who have special charge of water and plants, respectively (see
Sls.15.25-29), and are said to he injured by the sin of talking while eating and
drinking those things (see Chap. 9.2).
3.
Thereby polluting more ground than is necessary (see Sls.10.5).
4.
See Chap. 11.5 n.
5.
K does not mention the latter sinful action. The reason of the sin of such
actions is that they may be considered as offerings to the demons (who are
supposed to come from the north and to be powerful at night) unless protected by
the Ahunwar (see Bk. 8, Chap. 1.7) used as an exorcism (see Sd.30.1, 2; Sls.
10.7, 12.18).
6.
B has 'even through the assertion that this is corporeal and perishable.' The
passage in brackets occurs only in K.
7.
This appears to be the most probable reading of the word which occurs again in
§ 5, where it is written lala-upayamishnih in K, which form is also found in
Hn.1.23, where it translates Av. ustryamno. For the latter member of this
compound see also Chap. 20.6, 7. For the syllable yam we might substitute gam or
gam without much alteration of meaning, or even dam if we translate by 'fanning
up, exciting.'
8.
The words in brackets are omitted in
K.
9.
See Bk.8, Chap. 1.7.
10.
See Chap. 3.1 ; here, and in §§ 7, 8, it is expressed by Pahl. aharayih,
'righteousness,' being an abbreviation of its usual appellation, 'praise of
righteousness,' in Pahlavi.
11.
Pahl. 'amat andarg hakhto vadidunah ae.'
12.
Like Y.49 this fargard begins with special references to the wicked, and
returns to them towards the end.
1.
The nineteenth fargard, Kad-moi-urvu [1], is about where the souls, when they
come together, extol the soul of him who was a virtuous high-priest, a
friend of the soul, because he did not injure it, and guarded it from
hell.
2.
About the darkness, the intensity (bur'zvo homandih) and far-reaching
bottomlessness of the blackness, and the absence of goodness in hell; and
the proximity to stenches, close concealment [2], sleet-pelted clambering (pishnako-balinih),
frozen advancing, painful condition, distressed state, and awful fear of those
in hell. 3. This, too, that is thrown open (lakhvar ramitund) over it, from the
Daiti peak [3], which is in Eranwej, to Alburz [4], and below the middle
of which is the gate of hell, is the Chinwad bridge [5] which is the route (vidar)
of every one, righteous or wicked; the width across the route of the
righteous is a breadth of nine spears, each one the length of three reeds, but
the route for the wicked becomes like the edge of a razor.
4.
'Thus say I [6] unto thee, O Spitaman! that the man of truth steps forward over
the Chinwad pass. even the far-famed happy bridge; for Ashtad [7], the good
promoter of the world, and Mihr [8] of the vast cattle-pastures save only the
man possessing truth from that distress, as though they were a regiment (sipah)
a thousand strong. 5. So I say unto thee, O Spitaman! that thou shouldst not
become a liar unto Mihr, neither when thou wouldst converse with the wicked, nor
when thou wouldst with those of thine own religion who are righteous; for
both of those are promises, both with the wicked and the righteous; there
is a promise, O Zartosht! even of a wolf with young animals, but
that which is a lascivious (jehik) promise is more awful, O Spitaman! 6. So I
say unto thee, O Spitaman! that thou shouldst not seize a wanton (jehik) for use
-- that is, do not make her thy wiife -- and with compulsion (upayamishnih)
of her [9] -- that is, do not let thyself lie with her. 7. And if thou
shouldst seize a courtesan for use, and with compulsion of her, thou
mayst not dismiss her afterwards, neither in adversity, nor in
prosperity, neither on account of fondness for self, nor for life; because he
who seizes a courtesan for use, and with compulsion, and shall dismiss her
on account of fondness for self, or for life, becomes thereby a breaker
of promises to the house, village, community, or province, that
gives her life (valman zivinedo), and to the soul that animates
her [10].'
8.
So breaking the promise comes upon the children that are theirs, through evil
teaching; and he who is wicked is lying down without children at the
bottom of hell. 9. That is, there is nothing whatever of [11]
happiness for the wicked, that happiness which is produced abundantly by
him who is Ohrmazd.
10.
Perfect righteousness is excellence.
NOTES:
1.
The first three words of the fourth, and last, ha of the third Gatha (Y50.1),
here written kad-mok-ravako in Pahlavi.
2.
Compare AV. 54.5-8: - 'As close as (tang-ich) from the ear to the eye, and as
many as the hairs a horse has in his mane, so many in number the souls of the
wicked stand, but they do not see, nor do they hear a sound, one from the other,
and every one, therefore, thinks that he is alone.' F or a description of hell
see also Dd27.
3.
Or Chakad-i Daiti (see Pahl. Vend. 19.101; Bd. 12.7).
4.
Av. hara berezaiti, the range of lofty mountains supposed to surround the world
(see Bd. 5.3-5).
5.
Here called Chinako-puhal, and Chish-vidarg in § 4; for a fuller descripticn of
it see Dd.21.2-7. Allusion is made to it in Y50.7.
6.
Ohrmazd, speaking to Zartosht, The whole of this paragraph appears to be quoted
verbatim from the original Pahlavi text of the Nask.
7.
See Chap. 9.6.
8.
See Bk. 8, Chap. 44.16.
9.
Or, perhaps, 'with approach to her' (see Chap. 19.3 n). If padamishnih were
read, it might mean 'aspiration, or attachment' for her.
10.
This implies that the woman, being a notorious sinner, cannot reasonably
complain of bodily injury on being dismissed; but her soul and the community are
grievously injured by her being thus driven into further sin, and for this
injury the man's soul will be made responsible.
11.
K has 'none even of this.'
1.
The twentieth fargard, Vohu-khshathrem [1], is about the oppressive actions of
the sovereignty which Dahak [Zohak] [2] exercised over the earth of seven regions,
and the forward progress of his commands owing to a surrounding of terrors.
2.
About Dahak's enquiry of the members of the asscmbly, regarding the reason of
the affliction of the collected people, after the cutting up of Yim [Jamshed]
[3] and the accession (khudayih) of Dahak; and the people's saying, in reply
to Dahak, that Yim had kept away want and destitution, hunger and thirst, decay
and death, lamentation and weeping from the world, besides the cold and
heat of the immoderate mingling of the demon with mankind. 3. And this, too,
that 'a giver of comfort was Yim -- that is, those things were produced
by him which are the comfort of mankind -- and he was a giver of desire for
them, so that his happiness was through the gratification produced --
that is, mankind gratified him through virtue. 4. And Audak [5], who made Yim
the splendid and rich in flocks -- who was struck down by you through
violent assault -- unauthorisedly desirous (varak [6]) and eager for the world,
produced want and destitution, distress and greed, hunger and thirst, and the
sanctifier [7] of Wrath the wounding assailant, Want without pastures, Terror,
Destruction the secret-moving, Decay the decrepit [8], and the seven arch-demons
[9].' 5. And this, too, that 'those who look for a son are made
devoid of pregnancy by thee; evil-destined is the monster (shipist) self-made,
the uncompleted demon that it is impossible to seek a remedy for, who does not
extend (la valed) from himself, that is, no lineage proceeds from him. 6. And
thou art a sheep that is a wide-traveller, and keeps the dog away
from mankind; thou hast snatched away from us the bright radiance of
Yim the splendid and rich in flocks, who came out on every evil
contingency, at the approach of every winter, or scorched by extreme heat, so
as to act for the benefit of his place [10]. 7. Thou art intelligent, O Bevarasp
[11]! do thou even tell how this opinion is so, that a bad ruler is a thing
which is so bad; he who is a good ruler is our desire, we will give the
revenue of taxation (bahar-i madam-dedrunishnih) to him, and anything which is
necessary for good government when he shall achieve it.'
8.
About the smiting by Faridoon [12], for the sake of killing Dahak [Zohak];
the striking of his club upon the nape of the neck [13] (pilik), the
heart, and even the skull; and Dahak's not dying from that beating.
9.
Then smiting him with a sword, and the formation (vashtano) of noxious
creatures of many kinds, from the body of Dahak, at the first, second, and third
blow. 10. The exclamation of the creator Ohrmazd to Faridoon thus: 'Thou
shouldst not cut him who is Dahak, because, if thou shouldst cut him, Dahak
would be making this earth full of serpents, toads (khan-galak), scorpions,
lizards, tortoises, and frogs;' with the mode of binding him with
awful fetters, in the most grievous punishment of confinement [14].
11.
This, too, that when Az-i Dahak was bound, the report of the same
proceeded thus through all the regions, which are seven, that down-stricken is
Az-i Dahak, but he who smote him is Faridoon the Aspikan [15], the
exalted and mighty. 12. And in the tenth winter those particulars
were believed, and thus they spoke, that it was owing to [16] Yim that Az-i
Dahak is now smitten by them, because the tidings which are good are not yet
gathered unto all the regions, which are seven, and those which are evil do not
mention Az, nor demand the virtuous maiden (charatik) with importunity,
nor even coveted wealth [17] 13. This, too, that, when information came to him
of women, or property, that seemed to him desirable to possess, they were
then admitted by him into a golden cage [18], and that, which was completely
impregnable (airishto), came on through immaterial space (mainog-divakih) to the
den (grestako) of Az-i Dahak.
14.
This, too, that, though [19] he who smote him were his brother, or
descendant, or kinsman, or any one whatever of his nearest relations, it
did not seem to them as that which is grievous, and it, was not thought of
in their minds, so that it did not occasion them even a reminiscence again;
and thus they talked, that if a householder be he that smote, he is
one for whom all the fires of the religion are suitable, but that
householder being a monarch, he that smote is one who is every way their
ruler. 15. This, too, that at every place where he came on, and upon which his
horse's hoofs (safo) fell, the dense fire from them was for the
protection of the horse's body. 16 This, too, that through his confused (gumezako)
practising of good deeds arose even the evil deeds of Az-i Dahak [Zohak].
17.
About those of the Mazendaran [20] country having consulted, after the
smiting of Dahak, as to turning (gashtano) to Khwaniras [21] and driving out
Faridoon therefrom, and as to the residence offered by the same place
through the great number fallen; also, on account of their tallness, there are parts
of the wide-formed ocean [22] that come up to their mid-thigh, there
are others that are up to the navel, and the deeper places are up
to the mouth. 18. And, when they have come to this region, their producing
grievous harm and destruction to the poor [23], and the coming of the people
with complaints to Faridoon, and their speaking thus: 'Why didst thou
smite Az-i Dahak, who was a good ruler as to prerogative, so that danger was
kept away by him, and an inquisitor (vijoyidar) from him protected this
region from those of the Mazendaran country?' 19. And they also said this, about
the vileness of the Mazendarans, and the wretched state of the people of this
region as regards them, that is, they then speak thus: 'Since their habits are
thus, since they are filthy (dosh-homond) -- that is, dirt (karak) is theirs --
possessing holes [24] (sulak-homond) -- that is, holes are theirs -- and having
appellations (karitunishno-homond) -- that is, they call to one another -- we
men (vir) think, and consider upon this, that they also are human
beings.'
20.
About the encountering of Faridoon
with those of the Mazendaran country on the plain of Peshanigas [25], and
disputing with them thus: 'You are of the Mazendar country, and I (anmano)
have destroyed Az-i Dahak by the swiftest ruin, him who was a grievous
sovereign of every one, demons and men; for that smiting of him I am
produced by Ohrmazd more overpowering than his limbs made paralyzed by his own
enmity, and then you destroy this country of mine, you who are of the Mazendar
country.'
21.
And the Mazendarans thought
slightingly (sapuko) of Faridoon, and spoke in a tone of derision thus:
'Should it be so, that thou destroyedst Az-i Dahak by the swiftest ruin, him
who was a good sovereign of both demons and men, and thou art produced by
Ohrmazd, for that smiting of him, more overpowering than his limbs, even then we
will settle in this place and will stay in this place; and
it is not thou that art exalted, who art an over-grown (kabed-aroyishno)
huge sheep with the speech of a hero among other people, and we would not
admit thee here.'
22.
This, too, that 'nevertheless they
afterwards fled, and the victorious Faridoon pursued them to the foremost
upland, and his nostrils flamed upon it so that they split it through ;
from his right nostril is the cutting and sharp scorching of the ice that has
fallen and of all the cold of winter; and from his left nostril is the cutting
and sharp scorching of the rock that has fallen, which is similarly
burning to a fire the size of a house, carrying the dust from the feet of the
male ox, Barmayun [26] of the obstructed victor, the mighty Faridoon. 23. And he
made it rush up on the ascent, whereby they are made figures of stone, and they
who are of the Mazendar country are destroyed by him through the smiting
of fifties, the smiting of hundreds, the smiting of thousands [27], the smiting
of myriads, and the smiting of multitudes innumerable [28].'
24.
'Thus there are destroyed by him, the victorious and mighty
Faridoon, two-thirds of those of the Mazendar country, and one-third came
out beaten and sick; and never afterwards, O Spitaman Zartosht! have they
who are of the Mazendar country marched upon this region of Khwaniras,
and it has not been imagined by them, even in thinking about it,
that they [29] should go there, except those [30] whose names were
thus, Spitiyosh, son of Spansnayosh [31], and Arezraspah, son of
Spansnayosh [32], who have wandered (tajido) in search of wisdom and have
proceeded unto Frashostar [33] of the Hvobas [34].'
25.
Perfect excellence is righteousness.
NOTES:
1.
The first two words of the fourth Gatha (Y51.1), here written vohûk-khshatar
(B) and vôhûk-khshatar (K) in Pahlavi.
2.
See Bk. 8, Chap. 13.8.
3.
As mentioned in Yt.19.46; Bd.17.5 ('when Yim was cut up by them the fire Frobak
saves the glory of Yim from the hand of Zohak') and 31.5. Regarding Yim see Bk.
8, Chap. 13.6-8.
4.
What follows, as far as the end of § 7, appears to be quoted verbatim from the
original Pahlavi text of the Nask.
5.
The demon Uda who tries to make people talk when they ought to he silent
(Bd28.19), and who seems to be identified (in Pahl. Vend. XVIII, 70) with the
fiend who confesses her amours to Srosh, and is said (in Bd.31.6) to have been
the mother of Zohak, there named Udai or Aud, but more commonly called Vadak
(see Chap. 10.3; Dd. 72.5, 78.2), whence possibly the matronymic Vadakan
(MX.57.25, the Av. vadhaghana of Vd19.6) of that monarch. The text here appears
to allude to an amour with Yim.
6.
Av. vara; or it may be a miswriting of vardak, 'astray' (Av. vareta).
7.
Pahl. aizishn-homond, 'one holding ceremonies,' alluding to Zohak himself
as the progeny of Audak.
8.
These five demons are Aeshm, Niyaz, Saham, Sej, and Zarman in Pahiavi, who, with
the exception of Saham, 'terror,' are described in Bd.28.15-17, 23, 26.
9.
The seven arch-demons are the six mentioned in Bd.1.27, 28.7-13, 30.29, whose
Avesta names are Akem-mano, Indra, Sauru, Naunghaithya, Tauru, and Zairika (see
Vd10.9, 10, Vd19.43), together with either Mithaokhta or Anghra Mainyu himself
(see Bd1.24).
10.
K has only 'who came out at every place to act for its benefit.'
11.
'With a myriad of horses,' a title of Dahak.
12.
See Bk. 8, Chap. 13.8, 9.
13.
Or, perhaps, 'the reins.'
14.
In Mount Demawand (see Chap. 15.2 n).
15.
Av. Athwyana, a patronymic derived from Athwya who, according to Y9.7, was the
father of Thraetaona (Faridoon); but Bd.31.4, 7, 8, Bd32.1 n, make it a family
name for many preceding generations.
16.
Or min may mean 'apart from.'
17.
Demands often made by Dahak, as stated in § 13.
18.
Pahl. sulak-homand, 'something having apertures;' compare the
sulak-homand which translates Av. sufram and suwraya in Vd2.7, 18, 30, and has
sometimes been understood as a 'signet-ring.' Also compare § 19 below.
19.
Assuming that mun, 'who,' stands for amat, as in Chap. 13.2.
20.
See Bk. 8, Chap. 13.9.
21.
See Bk. 8, Chap. 8.2. Mazendaran was considered to be outside of Khwaniras
because it is separated from Iran by lofty mountains.
22.
The Caspian is probably meant here, being considered a portion of the
circumambient ocean.
23.
K omits 'to the poor.'
24.
Burrows, caves, and similar underground habitations are probably meant.
25.
See Chap. 16.17.
26.
This appears to have also been the name of a brother of Faridoon (see Bd. 31,
8).
27.
B omits 'the smiting of thousands.'
28.
Compare Yt. V, 54, 58, 117; Pahl. Vend. 7.137, 139.
29.
Literally 'we.'
30.
K has 'the two.'
31.
These first two names are only in K, because B repeats here a previous phrase by
mistake. The second name is written Sansnayosh here, but is spelt correctly on
its next occurrence.
32.
These two sons of Spansnayosh were the spiritual chiefs, or supreme
high-priests, of the two northern regions, Fradadafsh and Vidadafsh. They are
named Spitoid-i Ausposinan and Aerezrasp-i Ausposinan in Bd. 29.1; and the
statement that they came from Mazendaran, made in the text here, identifies that
country with the two northern regions. The names of these two high-priests are
evidently derived from the Avesta genitives Spitoish Uspasnaosh and Erezraspahe
Uspasnaosh in Yt.13.121, persons concerning whom it is only stated that their
fravashis, or guardian spirits, are to be reverenced.
33.
See Bk. 8, Chap. 38.68.
34.
Av. Hvova, the family name of Frashostar, Jamasp, and several other ancient
personages (see Bk. 8, Chap. 29, 25).
1.
The twenty-first fargard, Vahishtoishti [1], is about where the best prayers [2]
of the good religion are: unto Mihr [3] once every night for dismissing and
lessening Wrath in the whole world, and a second time for doing so with
Lethargy; a third unto Srosh [4] the righteous, and the fourth is the Dahman
Afrin [5] for further gifts and increasing gifts; and the most preservative of
them was the Dahman Afrin. 2. And this, too, that the most admirable of shapes
of women was Humai [6] of the noble family of Vishtasp, of horses the
splendid horse of Vishtasp, of oxen the male ox Barmayun [7], of sheep the very
much celebrated [8] sheep that is fat, white-jawed, and star-spotted, with
its upper half in a manufacture (pashakhtako) embroidered with gold and the
topmost part yellow; and yet not one of them attains an equality to even a
single thousandth part of the glory of a righteous man, a member of the
community, by whom the Dahman Afrin of the good is uttered. 3. And
this, too, as much as its goodness for the man and his wife is its evil
for a villain and his paramour [9].
4.
About the exercise of sovereignty by Kay Us [10] with triumph, over the
earth of seven regions; the advancement of his commands, by the people of
the creation [11], more swiftly than a wave of the hands; the construction of
his seven dwellings (man) [12] in the midst of Alburz [13], one of gold, two of
silver, two of steel, and two of crystal (avginakino); the restraining of the
many Mazonik [[Mazendaran]] demons [14] who are the ruin of the world, and
confining them to their own duty; the arrival at those dwellings of his,
and the swift winding (vafinidano) around those dwellings, of a person whose
strength is overpowered by decrepitude, and the approach of whose life to
departure from the body has taken place; the reduction (khusani-hastano)
of the decrepitude thereby, and the return of his strength and manhood, that is,
a command is given by him thus: 'Keep no people away at the door!' and he might
make a domestic of fifteen years of age.
5.
Afterwards, the consultation of the demons about the death of Kay-Us, and the
coming of Eshm [15] to Kay-Us, approving his death, and, therefore, making him
wretched in his mind about the great sovereignty which was possessed
by him over the seven lands, and causing him to long for the sovereignty of
the heavenly region (asamano gas) of the archangels [[Amahraspands]] [16]. 6.
And, owing to the seductiveness of Eshm, and the other demons who remained his
co-operators for that undoing, Kay-Us was even engaged in opposing
and molesting the sacred beings. 7. Also his not returning across Alburz, but
rushing upwards, with many demons and wicked people, unto the outer edge
of darkness [17]; and the reason of the glory of the Kayanians [18] becoming a
figure of clay on that border. 8. The previous separation (madam reji-hastano)
of Kay-Us from the troops, and his not turning from that ill-advisedness
even on renewed strife aloft [19] with the supreme sacred beings. 9.
Afterwards, the creator's calling back the glory of the Kayanians to himself,
the falling of the troops of Kay-Us to the earth from that height, and the
flying of Kay-Us to the wide-formed ocean [20].
10.
This, too, it says, that, besides him, someone [21] flew behind him, thus
associated with him; and after him flew Neryosang [22], the promoter (freh-dadar)
of the world, for diverting that person from him. 11. And the cry
of him, the unborn Khosraw, who was thus associated with him, like that
of a regiment (sipah) a thousand strong, was thus: 'Thou shouldst not
smite him, O Neryosang, promoter of the world! for if thou shouldst smite
this man, O Neryosang, promoter of the world! there will not he
afterwards obtained, for acquirement, a thorough destroyer of the
high-priest of Turan [23]; because owing to this man will be born him whose name
is Siyavakhsh [24], and owing to Siyavakhsh I shall be born, who
am the Khosraw who will entice the most heroic [25] one of Turan
-- who is mostly the destruction of champpions and troops -- to the numerous
heroes of the religion, so that I may accomplish the destruction of his
champions and troops, when [26] I would occasion a distant flight of the
sovereign of Turan.' 12. Through these words the guardian spirit of Khosraw
delighted Neryosang, the promoter of the world; and, on these words, the
latter was releasing him and that Kay-Us who thereby became discreet.
13.
Perfect is the excellence of righteousness.
NOTES:
1.
The appellation of the fifth Gatha (Yas. 53) which begins with the words
vahishta ishtish; it is here written yahistok-ishto in Pahlavi.
2.
The Pahlavi explanation of Av. vahishta ishtish.
3.
See Bk. 8, Chap. 44.16.
4.
See Bk. 8, Chap. 9.3.
5.
'The blessing of members of the community.' The Dahman Afrinagan consists of
Y60.2-7 with Af. 1.14-18; but the Afrin is another formula, otherwise called
'the Afrin of the seven Amahrapands,' and it is uncertain which of the two is
meant here.
6.
Av. (gen.) Humayau of Yt13.139.
7.
See Chap. 21.22.
8.
Reading freh-okhtar (for freh-okhttar), as Bd. 24.3 states that 'the black sheep
which is fat and white-jawed is the chief of sheep.' It might be 'the sheep of
Frashokhtar,' and this name might be a miswriting of Frashoshtar, but we have no
record of any such sheep of his.
9.
It is easy to trace a connection between §§ 1, 2 and Y53.1, and between § 3
and the Pahl. version of Y53.6a.
10.
Av. Kava Usa (see Bk. 8, Chap. 13.13).
11.
K has 'by demons and men.'
12.
Probably the origin of the legends of the seven halting-places of Rustam and
Isfendiyar in the Shah-Namah.
13.
Here meaning the mountain-range south of the Caspian (see Chap. 20.3).
14.
Av. Mazainya daeva, the idolators of Mazendaran.
15.
The demon of wrath (see Bk. 8, Chap. 9.3 n).
16.
§§ 5-9 are evidently a summary of the original form of the legend of Kavus's
attempt to reach the sky, otherwise described in the Shah-Namah.
17.
Where the endless light commences. Reading par-i tom; or it might be 'to the
utmost,' if we read fretum as equivalent to frehtum.
18.
K omits 'of the Kayanians.' It is the royal glory of Yt.19, which descended from
heaven and accompanies the faithful rulers and champions of the religion,
successively (see Chap. 24.3).
19.
B has 'pitying strife;' khvaparik being written instead of avarik.
20.
Meaning the Caspian, as in Chap. 21.17.
21.
It will be seen, from what follows, that this was the fravashi, or guardian
spirit, of his future grandson, Kay-Khosraw. Every being and object belonging to
Ohrmazd's creation is supposed to have its spiritual representative, created
before the universe and perpetually existing (see Bd.1.8; MX49.23).
22.
Av. Nairyosangha, an angel who is supposed to be the usual messenger of Ohrmazd
to mankind (see Byt. III, 25, 26, 59, 60). K has only 'besides him and behind
him flew Neryosang.'
21.
See Bk. 8, Chap. 13.15.
22.
See Bk. 8, Chap. 13.14.
23.
A single particular hero appears to be meant, although this is not quite
certain.
24.
Assuming that mun, 'who,' stands for amat, as in Chap. 13.2.
1.
The twenty-second fargard, Airyaman [1], is about the meeting of Kay-Khosraw [2]
and Vae, the long-continuing lord [3] next to the renovation of the universe ,
and Kay Khosraw's asking Vae, the long-continuing lord, about his smiting so
many of the ancients who have been the highest of mankind in splendor and glory.
2. The reply of Vae, the long-continuing lord, about his smiting them; and, upon
that answer, Kay Khosraw's taking Vae, the long-continuing lord, and
transforming him into the shape of a camel, mounting him, and
going, with the Iranian levies (hanjamanoikan), to the place where the immortal
Haoisht, Son of Geurva [4], lies in strength [5], and his letting him
lie; also his going beyond (kadmon) him to the place where Tus [6], the banisher
of strife, lay in strength, and his letting him also lie; and his going beyond
him to the place where Kay Apiveh [7] lies, and his letting him also lie.
3.
His proceeding beyond them, and meeting on e road with that beneficial victor
Soshyant [8], and being asked by that beneficial victor thus: 'What man
art thou who sittest aloft on Vae, the long-continuing lord, so that thou makest
Vae fly, the long-continuing lord transformed into the shape of a camel?' 4. The
speaking of Kay Khosraw, in reply to Soshyant, thus: I am Kay Khosraw.' 5. The
extolling of Kay Khosraw, by Soshyant, as regards his having extirpated
the idol-temples on the shore of Lake Chechast [9], and his smiting the wizard
Frasiyav [10].
6.
The glorifying of the Mazda-worshipping religion by Kay-Khosraw; the coming of
the powerful being Kersasp [11], club in hand, advancing towards them at the
dwelling of that wizard Ges [12]; the standing up of Tus, the banisher of
strife, and his calling to Kersasp for reliance upon the Gatha lore and for
union with them; and the praising of righteousness [13] by Kersasp, and his
throwing away arm-breaker.
7.
As to these, too, it says that so those men come together for producing
the renovation of the universe who are mentioned in this fargard, and
also in other places, and are all experienced and eminent doers,
and all powerful and brave; and they shall produce the renovation through a
desire for an existence undecaying, immortal, hungerless, and thirstless for
ever and everlasting.
8.
It is perfect excellence that is righteousness.
[[End
of the account of the contents of the ancient Sudgar Nask]]
NOTES:
1.
The appellation of Yas. 54 which begins with the words a airyema ishyo;
it is here written airêmano (B) and airemano (K), in Pahlavi.
2.
See Bk. 8, Chap. 13.14.
3.
Pahl. vae-i derang khudai = Av. vaya daregho hvadhata who is mentioned as a good
spirit in Ny.1.1. There are, however, two Vaes (see Dd. 30.4; MX2.115), the good
Vae who assists the departed soul, and the bad Vae who opposes it; the former is
closely connected with the angel Ram in Yt.15.0, 58, and the latter with
Asto-vidhotu, the demon of death, in Vd5.8, 9; Bd. 28.35. They appear to be
personifications of the upper and lower air, respectively; the former being
considered pure through its connection with the sacred beings, and the latter
impure through contamination by the demons. Possibly the legend about Vae in our
text may have been suggested by the words vayu-beredubyo and vayoi in Y53.6, 7;
in which case, this fargard must be considered, to some extent, as a
continuation of the preceding one. According to Dd36.3 Kay Khosraw was made to
pass away by Vae.
4.
Compare Av. Yushta Gaurvayana of Yt.13.118. But Yavisht i Friyan of Yt.13.120,
is one of the immortals mentioned in Byt. II, 1; Dd.90.3.
5.
Reading hang, which can also mean 'a cave;' but we can likewise read hug,
'spiritual life.'
6.
Av. Tusa of Yt.5.53, 58; he is one of the immortals mentioned in Bd.29.6;
Dd.36.3.
7.
Av. Kavi Aipivanghu of Yt.13.132, Yt19.71. He was son of Kay Kobad, brother of
Kay-Us, and great-grandfather of Vishtasp's grandfather (see Bd.31.25, 28, 31,
34).
8.
See Bk. 8, Chap. 14.14.
9.
Apparently the present Lake Urumiyah (see Bd. 17.7, Bd.22.2; MX.2.95)
10.
See Bk. 8, Chap. 13.11.
11.
See Chap. 15.
12.
Written [...], but the reading is uncertain; possibly the name may be connected
with 'the Veshko progeny' in Chap. 15.2.
13.
Reciting the Ashem Vohu formula, as a token of adhesion to the religion.