Place of Origin: Ancient Persia (Greater Iran)
Origin Date: Circa 1200 BCE (Avestan period)
Domain: Water, health, and perfection
Symbols: Flowing water, lotus flowers, and vessels of purity
Attributes: Wholeness, health, prosperity, and purity
Religion: Zoroastrianism
Description
Haurvatat, whose name translates to "Wholeness" or "Perfection," is one of the Amesha Spentas in Zoroastrianism. She is closely associated with water, health, and prosperity, symbolizing the completeness and harmony of creation. Haurvatat is often paired with Ameretat, the Yazata of immortality, as they collectively represent sustenance and the preservation of life. In Zoroastrian cosmology, Haurvatat is the guardian of water, ensuring its purity and abundance as a life-giving force. Her role emphasizes the interconnectedness of physical and spiritual well-being, making her a vital figure in the Zoroastrian spiritual framework.
Relations: Ameretat (sister Yazata), Ahura Mazda (creator)
Epithets: The Perfect One, Guardian of Waters, Sustainer of Health
Equivalents: Often compared to water deities in other traditions, such as the Hindu goddess Sarasvati.
Iconography: Haurvatat is often depicted as a serene figure surrounded by flowing water, symbolizing her nurturing and life-sustaining role.
Worship Beliefs and Practices
Haurvatat is honored through rituals involving water, such as offerings and prayers for health and prosperity. Her guardianship of water is celebrated in ceremonies emphasizing purity and renewal.
Narratives:
The Guardian of Waters: Haurvatat ensures the purity and flow of water, sustaining life and prosperity. (Source: Boyce, M. (1975). Zoroastrians: Their Religious Beliefs and Practices. Routledge.)
The Divine Pair: Haurvatat and Ameretat work together to provide health and immortality, symbolizing the eternal balance of life. (Source: Boyce, M. (1983). A History of Zoroastrianism. Brill.)
Sacred Texts: Avesta (Yasna and Yashts, circa 1200 BCE)