Symbols

The Faravahar — Zoroastrian Symbol of Good Thoughts, Good Words, Good Deeds

فروهر — نماد زرتشتی اندیشه نیک، گفتار نیک، کردار نیک

FaravaharFaroharفروهرZoroastrian symbolZoroastrianismGood Thoughts Good Words Good DeedsAhura Mazdaancient Iran symbolPersepolis carvingsPersian spiritual symbol

The Faravahar (also spelled Farohar or Fravashi) is the most widely recognized symbol of Zoroastrianism and ancient Iranian spiritual identity. Depicted as a winged disc with a human figure, it adorns the ruins of Persepolis, the Behistun Inscription, and Naqsh-e Rostam.

The symbol embodies the core Zoroastrian teaching: Humata, Hukhta, Hvarshta — Good Thoughts, Good Words, Good Deeds. The figure's right hand points upward toward righteousness. The ring in the left hand represents loyalty and faithfulness. The two wings with three rows of feathers symbolize the three pillars of Zoroastrian ethics.

Today, the Faravahar has transcended its religious origins to become a universal symbol of Iranian identity. Iranians of all backgrounds — Zoroastrian, Muslim, secular — wear it as a symbol of pre-Islamic heritage and pride in Persian civilization.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What does the Faravahar represent?

The Faravahar represents the guardian spirit in Zoroastrianism and symbolizes the core teaching of Good Thoughts, Good Words, Good Deeds. It is a symbol of Iranian pre-Islamic identity.

Where can you see the Faravahar?

The Faravahar is carved at Persepolis, the Behistun Inscription, Naqsh-e Rostam, and many other ancient Iranian sites. It is also widely used as jewelry and tattoos by modern Iranians.