The Daevas (also spelled Divs or Daivas) are malevolent spirits or deities in Zoroastrianism, one of the world's oldest monotheistic religions. Headed by Angra Mainyu (Ahriman), they are depicted as opposing the divine will and order established by Ahura Mazda, the supreme god in Zoroastrian belief.
In Zoroastrian cosmology, the Daevas represent the forces of chaos, falsehood, and evil. They are the antithesis of the divine spirits known as the Amesha Spentas (Holy Immortals), who serve Ahura Mazda and embody the principles of truth, order, and goodness. The Daevas are associated with deception and malevolence, and their actions are aimed at leading humanity astray from the path of righteousness.
Angra Mainyu is referred to as the daevanam daevo, meaning "chief of the daevas" or "daeva of daevas."
Characteristics[]
The Daevas are considered to be evil spirits or demons, embodying the principles of deceit, corruption, and disorder. They are the primary adversaries of the divine order and are believed to lead people away from the truth and moral integrity.
They are often depicted as shadowy or monstrous figures, contrasting sharply with the benevolent and radiant appearances of the Amesha Spentas. Their forms and attributes can vary depending on the specific traditions and texts.
The Daevas are part of a dualistic cosmology in Zoroastrianism, where the universe is seen as a battleground between the forces of good and evil. They are particularly noted for their role in the mythological struggle against the divine order and the promotion of falsehood and chaos.
Notable Members[]
Reflecting the role of the Amesha Spentas, through which Ahura Mazda brought creation into being, the six antitheses serve as the means by which Angra Mainyu generates the world's horrors. Moreover, the arch-daevas mentioned in Vendidad 10.9 and 19.43 are identified as the opposites of the Amesha Spentas, with moral principles represented by each Amesha Spenta opposed by immoral principles. According to the Epistles of Zadspram (WZ 35.37) and the Greater Bundahishn (GBd. 34.27), the six arch-demons are:
- Akoman: Represents "evil thought," countering Wahman/Bahman who embodies "good thought" (Av. Aka Manah versus Vohu Manah).
- Indar: Affects the minds of the righteous with freezing, opposing Ardawahisht who represents "best truth" (Av. Iṇdra versus Asha Vahishta).
- Nanghait: Signifies discontent, counteracting Spendarmad who symbolizes "holy devotion" (Av. Nanghaithya/Naonghaithya versus Spenta Armaiti).
- Sawar/Sarvar: Embodies oppression, opposing Shahrewar of "desirable dominion" (Av. Saurva versus Kshathra Vairya).
- Tauriz/Tawrich: Represents destruction, countering Hordad who signifies "wholeness" (Av. Taurvi versus Haurvatat).
- Zariz/Zarich: Known for poisoning plants, opposing Amurdad of "immortality" (Av. Zauri versus Ameretat).
Lesser Members[]
- Akatash: Associated with perversion
- Anashtih: Represents "strife"
- Anast: Known for uttering falsehoods
- Apaush and Spenjaghra: Cause drought
- Araska: Embodies vengeance
- Ashmogh: Represents apostasy
- Az: Known for avarice and greed
- Buht: Associated with idolatry
- Bushasp: Represents sloth (Avestan Bushyasta)
- Diwzhat : The deceiver and hypocrite.
- Eshm: Embodies wrath (Avestan Aeshma)
- Freptar: Known for distraction and deception
- Jeh: Associated with debauchery (Avestan Jahi)
- Mitokht (also Mithaokhta): Represents skepticism and falsehood
- Nang: Embodies disgrace and dishonor
- Nas or Nasa (Avestan Nasu): Associated with pollution and contamination
- Niyaz: Causes want or deprivation
- Pinih: Known for stinginess and hoarding without enjoyment
- Rashk (Avestan Areshko): Represents envy
- Sij: Associated with destruction
- Sitoj: Denies doctrine
- Spazg: Embodies slander
- Spuzgar: The negligent one
- Taromaiti: Known for scorn
- Varun: Represents unnatural lust
- Aghash: Associated with the evil eye
- Astwihad: Represents death (Avestan Asto-widhatu or Asto-vidatu)
- [Azi-/Az-]Dahak (Avestan Azi Dahaka): A serpent-like monster king
- Cheshma: Opposes clouds and causes earthquakes and whirlwinds
- Kunda: The steed of sorcerers
- Uta: Brings sickness through food and water
- Vizaresh: Fights for the souls of the dead
Religious Significance[]
- Opposition to Truth: The Daevas are integral to the concept of Druj (lie or falsehood) in Zoroastrianism. They are seen as agents who promote lies, deceit, and moral corruption, directly opposing the Asha (truth and order) promoted by Ahura Mazda and his divine servants.
- Cosmic Battle: The conflict between the Daevas and the divine forces is central to Zoroastrian eschatology. The ultimate goal of Zoroastrian teachings is to overcome the influence of the Daevas and restore the cosmic order and purity established by Ahura Mazda.
- Rituals and Practices: Zoroastrian rituals often involve prayers and ceremonies designed to combat the influence of the Daevas and protect followers from their malevolent effects. This includes recitations of sacred texts and the performance of specific rites to ensure spiritual purity and alignment with divine principles.
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