Kaykhosrow and Mithraism

The Signs of the Mithraism which prevailed in Iran before the emerging of Zoroaster are observed in literary works and especially epic poems. The evidences show the relationshipbetween Pishdadian and Kianian dynasties and the “Mehr cult”. The kings of these two ancient dynasties worshipped the moon and the sun and elements generalities before Zoroaster according to Birooni’s Asar-al-Baghiyeh.By studying of Ferdowsi’s Shahnameh and some Pahlavi texts one can deliver an evidence based on the relationship between kings such as: Fereidoon; Jamshid; Siavosh and Keykhosrow and “Mehr cult”. Among these the story of Keykhosrow is related to the birth and ascension of Izad Mehrs myth. The birth of this king who is considered as the most good-natured fabulous king of Iran at a dark night and his birth and growth among shepherds is related to “Mehr” in terms of shepherds’ care and presence. His prayer before the sun and his washing customs before praying resemble Mehr rituals. Also hisascension to sky and the scared dinner customs or “Izad Mehr” ascension are the facts which refer to Mithraism.