ahura
Học thuậtThân thiện
Definition
Noun: 1. A title for benevolent deities in Zoroastrianism: In the Zoroastrian religion, an Ahura is a type of divine spirit or lord, characterized by its goodness and association with order and truth. The term is often contrasted with daevas, which are malevolent entities.
Usage
- The term is used specifically in the context of Zoroastrian theology and discussions of ancient Persian religion.
- It is a proper noun and is often capitalized.
Examples
Advanced Usage
- The term is primarily found in academic, historical, or religious studies contexts. It is not used in general modern English conversation.
- It is frequently used in compound names for specific deities, most notably Ahura Mazda.
Variants and Related Words
- Ahura Mazda (proper noun): The supreme deity, the wise lord, in Zoroastrianism.
- Ahuric (adjective): Pertaining to the ahuras or their nature.
Synonyms
- Benevolent deity
- Divine lord (in the specific Zoroastrian context)
Notes on Meaning
- The concept is central to the dualistic cosmology of Zoroastrianism, where ahuras represent the forces of good, light, and truth (Asha), opposed by the forces of evil, darkness, and deceit (Druj).
- It is important to distinguish the general title "ahura" from the specific god "Ahura Mazda." All Ahura Mazdas are ahuras, but not all ahuras are Ahura Mazda.
Noun
- (Zoroastrianism) title for benevolent deities