Analyzing the Demonic Roots of Disease and Explaining the Function of Nirang in the Zoroastrian Texts (Avesta and Pahlavi)
Tārīkh-i pizishkī i.e., Medical History,
Vol. 18 (1405),
4 April 2026
,
Page 1-12
https://doi.org/10.22037/mhj.v18i.51610
Abstract
Background and Aim: In Zoroastrian texts, including the Avesta and the Dēnkard, diseases are understood as the result of the onslaught of Ahriman (the Evil Spirit) and his creations upon the world of Ahura Mazda. Poisonous creatures-especially the xrafstars, regarded as demonic beings-serve as the instruments of this aggression, spreading sickness throughout the cosmos. In counteraction, Ahura Mazda dispatched healing divinities such as Airyaman, Haoma, Vanant and Sraosha to restore human health. These divine healers employed both material methods (e.g., medicinal plants) and spiritual practices (e.g., reciting māntra and performing Nirang rituals) in their therapeutic processes.
Methods: This research adopts a library-based approach, employing content analysis of Zoroastrian scriptures. To this end, Avestan sources, Pahlavi texts and relevant contemporary studies have been thoroughly examined and analyzed.
Ethical Considerations: All ethical principles of library research-including textual authenticity, honesty, and fidelity in citation and representation-have been strictly observed throughout this study.
Results: The ritual of "binding diseases through Nirang" (Nirang bastane bīmārīhā), performed to repel illnesses and noxious creatures or to fulfill personal wishes, was carried out using sacred words, consecrated water, plants, amulets and talismans. In this ritual, the mythical figure Fereydūn plays a prominent role; by preparing remedies and harnessing the power of sorcery-alongside the assistance of the divinity Vanant-he binds and neutralizes poison. Talismans such as the "Scorpion Charm" (raq‘a-yi kazhdum) and metal amulets engraved with Fereydūn’s image exemplify the manifestation of these beliefs in popular literature.
Conclusion: In Zoroastrian thought, the disruption of bodily order, i.e., disease, was perceived as a consequence of demonic agency. The employment of incantations and prayers designated as Nirang not only facilitated the restoration of health but also constituted an active participation in the cosmic battle between good and evil.
- Zoroastrian texts
- Nirang
- Religion and Medicine
- Spiritual Healing
- Amulet
How to Cite
References
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