AMESHA SPENTAS Meaning and
Definition
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Amesha Spentas are divine beings revered in Zoroastrianism, an ancient religion founded by the Persian prophet Zoroaster (also known as Zarathustra) around the 6th century BCE. The term "Amesha Spentas" translates to "Beneficent Immortals" or "Holy Immortals" in English.
According to Zoroastrian belief, there are six Amesha Spentas who represent different aspects of divinity and govern various aspects of existence. These beings are considered to be the highest-ranking gods in the Zoroastrian pantheon and serve as intermediaries between humanity and the supreme deity, Ahura Mazda.
The six Amesha Spentas are named Vohu Manah (Good Mind), Asha Vahishta (Righteousness or Truth), Khshathra Vairya (Desirable Dominion), Spenta Armaiti (Holy Devotion), Haurvatat (Wholeness or Perfection), and Ameretat (Immortality). Each of them embodies a specific virtue and contributes to maintaining cosmic order and harmony.
Amesha Spentas are often depicted as benevolent and compassionate beings who aid humans in their spiritual journey and protect them from evil forces. They are believed to have existed since the dawn of creation and are inherently connected to the divine essence of Ahura Mazda.
In Zoroastrian prayers and rituals, the Amesha Spentas are frequently invoked and praised for their divine qualities, with the ultimate aim of aligning oneself with their virtues and attaining a state of purity and righteousness. Overall, the concept of the Amesha Spentas plays a central role in Zoroastrian theology, reinforcing the religion's emphasis on ethical conduct, truthfulness,
Etymology of AMESHA SPENTAS
The term "Amesha Spentas" originates from the Avestan language, an ancient Iranian language related to Old Persian. In Zoroastrianism, an ancient Persian religion founded by the prophet Zoroaster, the Amesha Spentas are considered as divine entities or immortals who assist the supreme god, Ahura Mazda.
The Avestan term "Amesha" is derived from the root "am" meaning "immortal" or "eternal", while "Spenta" is related to "ispati" meaning "beneficial" or "holy". Therefore, "Amesha Spentas" can be translated as "beneficent immortals" or "holy immortals".
