Place of Origin: Ancient Persia (Greater Iran)
Origin Date: Circa 1500 BCE (Avestan period)
Domain: Covenants, light, truth, and cosmic order
Symbols: The sun, scales of justice, and a radiant crown
Attributes: Ensuring truth, upholding justice, and illuminating the world
Epithets: Protector of Oaths, Light-Bringer, Covenant Keeper. Miθra (Mithra)
Equivalents: Roman: Mithras (associated with the Mithraic Mysteries)
Religion: Zoroastrianism
Sacred Texts: Avesta (Yashts dedicated to Mithra, circa 1200 BCE)
Iconography: Mithra is often depicted as a radiant figure with a crown of light, holding scales or a sword.
Relations: Ahura Mazda (creator), Angra Mainyu (adversary)
Description
Mithra is a prominent Yazata in Zoroastrianism, associated with covenants, light, and truth. He is revered as the protector of agreements and oaths, symbolizing integrity and justice. Mithra is often depicted as a radiant figure, embodying the rising sun and cosmic order. His role extends to eschatology, where he serves as a divine judge during the final reckoning. Mithra's significance is highlighted in both sacred texts and rituals, emphasizing his connection to truth and light.
Narratives:
The Covenant Keeper: Mithra ensures the sanctity of agreements and punishes those who break oaths. (Source: Boyce, M. (1975). Zoroastrians: Their Religious Beliefs and Practices. Routledge.)
The Divine Judge: Mithra presides over the Chinvat Bridge, judging souls based on their deeds. (Source: Boyce, M. (1983). A History of Zoroastrianism. Brill.)
Worship Beliefs and Practices
Mithra was worshipped through rituals involving fire and light, symbolizing purity and truth. Festivals like Mehregan celebrated his role in maintaining cosmic order.