Daeva: The Malevolent Spirits in Zoroastrianism
Daevas are malevolent supernatural beings in Zoroastrianism, often depicted as demons or false gods who oppose Ahura Mazda, the supreme deity of light and wisdom. These entities play a crucial role in Zoroastrian cosmology, representing chaos, deceit, and destruction. Later demonological traditions have been impacted by the idea of Daevas, especially in Islamic and Persian mythology.
Origins of Daeva in Zoroastrianism
The term Daeva originates from the Avestan language, where it initially meant “deity” or “divine being.” However, under the reformist teachings of the prophet Zoroaster (Zarathustra), Daevas were reinterpreted as false gods or demons aligned with Angra Mainyu (Ahriman), the destructive spirit and eternal adversary of Ahura Mazda.
In the Gathas, the oldest Zoroastrian texts attributed to Zoroaster, Daevas are condemned as entities who follow the path of deceit (Druj) and lead humans away from righteousness (Asha). They are frequently associated with darkness, lies, and chaos, standing in direct opposition to the Amesha Spentas, the benevolent divine beings serving Ahura Mazda.
Characteristics and Roles of Daevas
Daevas are depicted as powerful but deceptive beings who thrive on corruption, falsehood, and disorder. In Zoroastrian cosmology, they are responsible for spreading disease, war, and moral decay. Some of the most notorious Daevas include:
1. Aeshma
- The demon of wrath and fury is associated with violence and destruction.
- Later identified with Asmodeus in Jewish and Islamic traditions.
2. Indra
- Originally a major deity in Hinduism, Indra is depicted as a Daeva in Zoroastrianism.
- He represents false gods and misplaced worship.
3. Saurva
- A demon associated with oppression and tyranny.
- Often linked to the concept of power used for destructive purposes.
4. Taurvi
- A Daeva of discord and temptation leads humans into sinful behavior.
5. Zairi
- The demon of intoxication and excess.
- Encourages addiction and loss of self-control.
Each of these Daevas personifies a negative human trait, reinforcing the Zoroastrian emphasis on choosing good thoughts, words, and deeds to resist their influence.
Daeva in Later Traditions
The concept of Daevas did not remain confined to Zoroastrianism. Over time, their influence extended into other religious and folkloric traditions:
Persian Mythology
In later Persian mythology, especially during the Sassanian period, Daevas were equated with divs, demonic entities who opposed divine order. They were depicted as monstrous beings residing in dark, chaotic realms, often serving Ahriman in his war against Ahura Mazda.
Islamic Influence
During the Islamic era, the idea of Daevas merged with jinn and shaitan, further shaping the perception of demons in Persian and Arabic folklore. Many of their traits, such as deception and temptation, were absorbed into Islamic demonology.
Western Interpretations
Some scholars draw parallels between Daevas and fallen angels in Christian traditions. The dualistic struggle between Ahura Mazda and Ahriman bears similarities to the battle between God and Satan in Christian eschatology.
Conclusion
The Daevas of Zoroastrianism represent the embodiment of chaos, deception, and destruction. Unlike benevolent spirits aligned with Ahura Mazda, they seek to mislead humanity and spread corruption.