A comparative study of the ritual structure of Nowruz Siavoshan and Akitu based on the theory of myth and religion

The underlying claim of the myth-ritualist theory is that myths and rituals operate together, and consequently, myths depend on rituals. According to this theory, myths and rituals must go hand in hand. “Siavash” in Persian culture and “Tammuz” in Semitic culture are goddess of agriculture and vegetation rituals relevant to them are “Siavoshan Ritual” and “Akitu” (Ritual of Babol Nowruz). The two mentioned rituals are initially examined according to the myth-ritualist theory. This is followed with the analysis of the structure of “Akitu” and “Siavoshan Nowruz” and other relevant rituals left alive, such as "Mir-Nowruzi" are studied in the light of the paradigm of sacred king sacrifice. The results of the study suggest that what the myth-ritualist structures of “Siavash” and “Tammuz” have in common is the annual dramatic repetition of the rituals as well as the repetition of death and king’s rebirth patterns. Sacrifice of the king was the main pillar, which is performed in both rituals in order to bring blessings back to the society. The duality of mourning and happiness, holding female-mourning, dedicating special places to performing these rituals and constructing statues of goddess are points of similarity in these rituals.