How Do You Spell CHINVAT BRIDGE?

Pronunciation: [t͡ʃˈɪnvat bɹˈɪd͡ʒ] (IPA)

The spelling of the word "chinvat bridge" can be somewhat confusing due to its Persian origin. In International Phonetic Alphabet (IPA) phonetic transcription, it is pronounced as /tʃɪnvæt brɪdʒ/. The first syllable "ch" is pronounced like "cheese," the second syllable "in" is pronounced like "bin," and the third syllable "vat" is pronounced like "vat" with the "a" sound like "cat." The last two syllables "bridge" are pronounced the same as in English. The Chinvat Bridge is believed to be the bridge between the physical and spiritual worlds in Zoroastrianism.

CHINVAT BRIDGE Meaning and Definition

1. Chinvat Bridge refers to a significant concept in Zoroastrianism, an ancient Iranian religion. In Zoroastrian cosmology, the Chinvat Bridge is a metaphysical bridge that connects the earthly realm with the realm of the afterlife. It is believed to be a symbolic pathway that souls must cross after death to reach their final destination, either heaven or hell.

   The Chinvat Bridge is described as a narrow and precarious crossing, representing the moral and ethical choices an individual made during their lifetime. According to Zoroastrian beliefs, upon death, each soul is judged by the divine being, Ahura Mazda. The soul's good and bad deeds are weighed, determining whether they will successfully cross the bridge or fall into the depths of hell.

   The concept of Chinvat Bridge reflects the dualistic nature of Zoroastrianism, where the balance between good and evil holds great significance. The Bridge acts as a symbol of the soul's own judgment, requiring integrity, righteousness, and virtuous living towards others.

   The ultimate destination after navigating the Chinvat Bridge is determined by the soul's actions, thoughts, and intentions during their physical existence. The virtuous souls are believed to effortlessly cross the bridge and enter the realms of paradise, while the sinful souls experience torment and punishment in hell.

   In summary, the Chinvat Bridge represents the pivotal journey every soul must undertake in Zoroastrianism. It signifies the ethical choices made in life and the subsequent consequences in the afterlife, serving as a symbol of judgment and divine justice.

Etymology of CHINVAT BRIDGE

The word "Chinvat Bridge" is derived from Zoroastrianism, an ancient Iranian religion founded by the prophet Zarathustra (Zoroaster). In Zoroastrian cosmology, Chinvat Bridge is a concept that refers to a bridge that souls must pass over after death to reach the spiritual realm.

The term "Chinvat" is derived from Avestan, the ancient language of the Zoroastrian sacred scriptures known as the Avesta. In Avestan, "Cinvat" or "Cinvath" means a "divider" or "separator". The word is related to the verb "chinu" which means "to separate" or "to divide".

The concept of Chinvat Bridge also appears in later Persian literature, such as the Shahnameh (Book of Kings) by Ferdowsi, which is a significant epic poem of ancient Persia.