Comparison between the Qualities and Functions of Soroush in Shahnameh and Zoroastrian Texts

Soroush is one of the most important Avestan gods with different functions in the Gathas, New Avesta and Pahlavi texts and its name and role remains in Iran’s post-Islamic literature. Ferdowsi, Iran’s skilled and unique epic poet, attributes some qualities and functions to Soroush when reporting about ancient Iranians’ religious beliefs. After a comparative study of the features of Soroush in the Gathas, New Avesta and Pahlavi texts such as being a guardian, witch, messenger of Ahura Mazda, savior and functionality after death, this paper compares the above said attributes with Ferdowsi’s report in Shahnameh. It is concluded that Shahnameh report is vaguely in line with Mazda texts. Intentionally or unintentionally, Ferdowsi is influenced by Abrahamic religions as regards the angels, especially by Gabrielle. His report of Soroush is a combination of the attributes in two Iranian and Semitic traditions.