Angra mainyu

Definition

Angra Mainyu, also known as Ahriman, is the spirit of evil and chaos in Zoroastrianism, representing the antithesis of Ahura Mazda, the supreme god of good. This figure embodies darkness, lies, and disorder, playing a crucial role in the dualistic cosmology that characterizes Zoroastrian belief. The concept of Angra Mainyu highlights the struggle between good and evil, influencing not just Zoroastrianism but also impacting various elements of Near Eastern religions and their evolution into Greek and Roman practices.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Angra Mainyu is often depicted as the source of all evil and is responsible for spreading chaos and destruction in the world.
2. The duality of Angra Mainyu and Ahura Mazda reflects a cosmic struggle that parallels similar themes found in other Near Eastern religions.
3. In Zoroastrianism, humans are believed to play a crucial role in this struggle by choosing between good (aligned with Ahura Mazda) and evil (aligned with Angra Mainyu).
4. Angra Mainyu's influence can be seen in the development of concepts of evil in later Greek and Roman thought, where similar figures embody chaos and disorder.
5. The depiction of Angra Mainyu influenced later mythological narratives, contributing to the understanding of moral choices and the nature of evil in subsequent cultures.

Review Questions

• How does the concept of Angra Mainyu illustrate the dualistic nature of Zoroastrian belief systems?
  • Angra Mainyu illustrates the dualistic nature of Zoroastrian belief systems by embodying chaos, lies, and evil as a direct opposition to Ahura Mazda, who represents truth, light, and order. This tension between good and evil shapes the moral framework within which followers make choices. The ongoing struggle between these forces is central to Zoroastrian cosmology, highlighting the importance of human agency in aligning with either good or evil.
• Discuss how Angra Mainyu has influenced the perception of evil in Greek and Roman religions.
  • Angra Mainyu has influenced perceptions of evil in Greek and Roman religions through its embodiment of chaos and disorder. Similar to figures like Typhon in Greek mythology or various malevolent deities in Roman belief, Angra Mainyu represents a fundamental conflict between order and chaos. This duality resonates within narratives that explore moral choices, leading to a more nuanced understanding of good and evil across these cultures.
• Evaluate the impact of Angra Mainyu's characterization on the development of religious thought regarding morality and ethical choices in ancient cultures.
  • The characterization of Angra Mainyu has significantly impacted religious thought regarding morality and ethical choices by framing the struggle between good and evil as a universal theme across ancient cultures. This concept not only prompted followers to consider their alignment with either Ahura Mazda or Angra Mainyu but also inspired subsequent religious traditions to address moral dilemmas. By establishing a clear dichotomy between order and chaos, Angra Mainyu's influence can be traced through evolving ideas about ethics in both Western philosophy and religious doctrine.

Related terms

Ahura Mazda: The supreme god in Zoroastrianism, representing truth, light, and order, and standing in opposition to Angra Mainyu.

Zoroastrianism: An ancient Persian religion founded by the prophet Zoroaster that emphasizes the duality of good and evil through its belief in Ahura Mazda and Angra Mainyu.

Daeva: A class of supernatural beings in Zoroastrianism often associated with chaos and falsehood, similar to the role Angra Mainyu plays in opposing divine order.