The symbol of Zoroastrianism is a human with wings like an eagle, able to fly to our ultimate being.
Zoroastrian Symbol: Understanding Fravashi
In the symbol:
Wisdom of Age: The face is an elderly human who has gained wisdom, looking forward to growth and freedom, and turning away from ignorance.
Three Principles of Zarathustra: The upper wings have three layers representing the three principles of Zarathustra: Good thoughts, good words, and good deeds.”
Three Opposing Forces: The lower part of the symbol (like an upper tail) also consists of three separate parts. The tail represents wicked thoughts, wicked words, and wicked deeds. If they are chosen in a wrong path, it can bring misfortune and misery to a human's life. That is why they are in the lower part of the symbol—our animalistic part.
Positive and Negative Forces: There are two loops at the two sides of Fravashi, which are representative of positive forces (sacred wisdom—Spenta Mainyu) and negative forces (wicked force—Ahriman, Satan, Angra Mainyu). The positive loop is directed in front of the face, meaning to proceed forward toward goodness. The negative loop is located at the back, meaning to turn away from wickedness.
Our Spirit Is Immortal, Eternity in Universe: The central circle around Fravashi’s trunk symbolizes that the spirit is immortal, similar to a circle having neither a beginning nor an end.
Choosing the Right Path: One of the old man’s hands is pointing upward, indicating that human beings need to struggle to grow toward their full potential.
Path of Loyalty and Faithfulness: On the other hand is a ring, similar to a ring of promise representing a wedding ceremony. It is a ring of covenant for one’s promise for faithfulness and loyalty in the path toward goodness and wisdom.
Books About Fravashi
Your Immortal Spirit: From Death to Deathlessness, From Time to Timelessness