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Full Description
Early Iranians believed evil had to have a source outside of God, which led to the concept of an entity as powerful and utterly evil as God is potent and good. These two forces, good and evil, which have always vied for superiority, needed helpers in this struggle. According to the Zoroastrians, every entity had to take sides, from the cosmic level to the microcosmic self.
One of the results of this battle was that certain humans were thought to side with evil. Who were these allies of that great Evil Spirit? Women were inordinately singled out. Male healers were forbidden to deal with female health disorders because of the fear of the polluting power of feminine blood. Female healers, midwives, and shamans were among those who were accused of collaborating with the Evil Spirit, because they healed women. Men who worked to prepare the dead were also suspected of secret evil. Evil even showed up as animals such as frogs, snakes, and bugs of all sorts, which scuttled to the command of their wicked masters.
This first comprehensive study of the concept of evil in early Iran uncovers details of the Iranian struggle against witchcraft, sorcery, and other "evils," beginning with their earliest texts.
Contents
The Avesta and Its Translation by Prods Oktor SkjÆrvØ
Preface
Acknowledgments
Introduction
1. The Study of an Ancient Tradition
2. The Iranians and Their Literature
3. Magic and the Magi
4. General Concepts of Evil in the Avesta
5. "Naturally" Occurring Evils
6. Sorcerers, Witches, Whores, and Menstruating Women
7. The Evil Eye, Corpse-Abusing Criminals, Demon Worshippers, and Friends
8. Exorcistic and Apotropaic Rituals
9. Structure of Avestan Incantations
10. Uses for Avestan Incantations
11. Exorcisms
12. Conclusion
Notes
Bibliography
General Index
Index of Verses
