Zurvanism meaning

Zurvanism is a dualistic ancient Iranian religion that believed in the concept of infinite time and space.


Zurvanism definitions

Word backwards msinavruZ
Part of speech The word "Zurvanism" is a proper noun. It refers to a specific philosophical and theological system in ancient Persia. Proper nouns are used to refer to specific people, places, or things, and are always capitalized.
Syllabic division Zur-van-ism
Plural The plural of Zurvanism is Zurvanisms.
Total letters 9
Vogais (3) u,a,i
Consonants (6) z,r,v,n,s,m

Zurvanism is a now-extinct branch of Zoroastrianism that emerged in the early centuries of the Common Era. This belief system centered around the idea of Zurvan, the god of infinite time and space.

Zurvanism believed that Zurvan was the father of Ahura Mazda, the supreme god in Zoroastrianism, and Ahriman, the god of evil. This concept of Zurvan as the prime mover of the universe represented a departure from traditional Zoroastrian beliefs.

Beliefs and Practices

Zurvanism placed a strong emphasis on the dualistic nature of the universe, with the eternal struggle between good and evil at the forefront of its teachings. Followers believed in the existence of a predetermined fate that governed the course of human life.

Devotion and Rituals

Devotees of Zurvanism practiced various rituals and ceremonies to seek favor from the god Zurvan. These rituals often involved offerings, prayers, and acts of purification to maintain harmony in the cosmic order.

Decline and Legacy

Despite its popularity in certain regions during ancient times, Zurvanism eventually faded into obscurity as other belief systems gained prominence. However, its influence can still be seen in the development of philosophical ideas related to time, fate, and the nature of the universe.


Zurvanism Examples

  1. Zurvanism is a pre-Islamic Iranian religion that worshiped Zurvan, the god of infinite time and space.
  2. Some scholars believe that Zurvanism influenced the development of early Christian and Islamic theology.
  3. The followers of Zurvanism believed in a dualistic cosmology with Zurvan as the supreme god.
  4. Zurvanism had a belief in fate and free will, with Zurvan as the ultimate arbiter of destiny.
  5. Zurvanism was popular in ancient Persia but eventually declined with the rise of Zoroastrianism.
  6. Zurvanism had rituals and practices that involved offerings and prayers to Zurvan.
  7. Some ancient texts suggest that Zurvanism included a form of ancestor worship.
  8. Zurvanism had a concept of cosmic time that was central to its belief system.
  9. Zurvanism was practiced by a priestly class that had special knowledge of sacred texts and rituals.
  10. Zurvanism has left a mark on the history of religion in the Middle East and beyond.


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  • Updated 28/03/2024 - 21:26:47