The Faravahar has a
profound significance. It is a symbol used by Zarathustrians
/ Zoroastrians around the world, reminding of the purpose of life
and the progression of soul. It represents everlasting life, shows the duality of
the two opposing forces of good
and bad, and indicates divine universal law to strive to lead a
good and morally upright life in order to progress and attain
union with the All of the All.
The circle in the centre of
the figure - which shows no beginning or end - represents the soul
and its immortality.
The wings enable the soul to
evolve and progress. In showing flight, they reflect mankind's
advancement. The feathers to the left and right represent good thoughts (or good reflection), good words and good
deeds.
In the lower part of the
Faravahar there are three parts that represent bad
thoughts (or bad reflections), bad words and bad deeds that cause
misery for human beings.
The two opposing forces -
one positive and one negative - are reflected in the two loops to
the left and right, showing the continuous conflict that is
present between the two. The soul, sitting in the middle, has
choice to proceed to the good and turn away from the bad.
The Faravahar's face indicates
connection to humanity.
One hand of the Faravahar is
raised, showing man's striving for the higher good. The
other holds a ring that is a representative of the progression of
soul to attain union with Ahura Mazda (I'hua'Mazda).
It is interesting to note
that First Nations' name for Her Holiness Alexandra Hehpsehboah is Thunderbird
Woman, meaning the messenger between the Great Spirit -the Creator
- and mankind. The
thunderbird itself is larger than an eagle. The winged
symbolism reflects similarities in the theme represented in the
Faravahar.
"You
are responsible and accountable for your own actions and
truthfulness to self and others in all you do. Each action you
take has a consequence - cause and effect - and must be dealt with
before surrendering your physical body in order that your soul
continues on unencumbered. One must strive towards good thoughts,
good words, good deeds and no killing on a moment to moment basis,
as your soul evolvement is what is of paramount
importance."
-
H.H. Alexandra Hehpsehboah
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