Daeva is a term used in Zoroastrianism to describe supernatural entities with disagreeable characteristics. These entities are often associated with evil, chaos, and deception, and are opposed by the good spirits known as ahuras. Some of them are fallen angels who rebelled against Ahura Mazda, the supreme god of Zoroastrianism.
In Hindu mythology, the term deva is used to describe gods, demons, spirits, and other supernatural beings of high excellence. The devas are often opposed to the demonic Asuras and are considered to be celestial beings, angels, or demigods. However, in Zoroastrianism, the term daeva is used to describe dark entities that are to be rejected.
Despite their negative connotations, daevas have become a popular subject in modern culture, appearing in various forms of media such as video games, movies, and literature. Some people also use the term daeva to describe a type of supernatural creature in their own fictional works.
Origins of Daeva
Zoroastrianism Roots
Daeva is a term that is rooted in ancient Persian mythology and Zoroastrianism. In Zoroastrianism, daevas were initially regarded as gods to be rejected. The term daeva was used to describe the false gods worshipped by the pre-Zoroastrian inhabitants of Persia. The concept of daevas was later adopted by Zoroastrianism as a way to distinguish the true gods from the false ones.
Historical Context
The word daeva comes from Old Iranian *daiva, which in turn derives from Indo-Iranian *daivá- “god”, reflecting Proto-Indo-European *deywós with the same meaning. The term daeva was later adopted by the ancient Persians to describe the false gods worshipped by the pre-Zoroastrian inhabitants of Persia. The concept of daevas was later adopted by Zoroastrianism as a way to distinguish the true gods from the false ones. The origins of daevas are rooted in the oldest texts of the Zoroastrian canon.
Daeva is also a term used in Hindu mythology to describe a spirit, demi-god, celestial being, angel, demon or any supernatural being of high excellence. In Hindu mythology, the devas are opposed to the demonic Asuras. Some ancient writings suggest that the progenitor of the line was a Kindred known as Aesma Daeva, but vampiric scholars debate whether this individual was actually undead or the writings were just a myth.
Characteristics of Daeva
Physical Description
Daeva is a supernatural entity that appears in Zoroastrian mythology. They are depicted as having human-like forms, but with animal features such as horns, tails, claws, or wings. They can also shapeshift into various forms to deceive or seduce humans. The daevas are often associated with darkness, chaos, and malevolence.
Powers and Abilities
Daevas possess various powers and abilities. They can fly, create illusions, manipulate elements, or possess people. They are also known for their ability to cause disruption and chaos. In Zoroastrian mythology, they are regarded as adversaries of divine order, representing the antithesis of goodness and righteousness.
According to Old Avestan daēuua or daēva, they are referred to as “gods that are (to be) rejected.” This meaning is subject to interpretation and perhaps also evident in the Old Persian “daiva inscription” of the 5th century BCE. The daevas are considered to be the wrong gods or false gods or gods that are to be rejected.
Daeva in Literature
Avestan References
In the Avesta, the ancient scriptures of Zoroastrianism, daevas are described as malevolent supernatural beings who oppose the righteous forces of the universe. They are often associated with chaos, deception, and evil. In the Gathas, the oldest texts of the Avesta, the daevas are referred to as “gods that are (to be) rejected”. This suggests that they were once considered to be divine beings, but their actions led to their fall from grace.
Later Texts and Adaptations
In later Zoroastrian texts and adaptations, the daevas are portrayed in a more complex light. Some texts suggest that they were once good, but were corrupted by Angra Mainyu, the Zoroastrian equivalent of Satan. Others depict them as powerful beings who are capable of both good and evil, depending on their actions and motivations.
In modern literature and media, the daevas have been adapted and reimagined in various ways. They have appeared in fantasy novels, video games, and television shows, often as powerful and malevolent creatures who pose a threat to the protagonists. Despite their negative reputation, some authors and creators have explored the idea that the daevas are not inherently evil, but are simply misunderstood or misguided.
Overall, the daevas have played a significant role in Zoroastrian mythology and continue to inspire writers and artists today.
Cultural Significance
Symbolism and Interpretation
Daeva, also known as devas, divs, or dews, are supernatural beings in Zoroastrianism and other Magian religions. They hold significant cultural and religious importance in ancient Persian mythology. The daevas are often associated with evil, chaos, and deception, and are opposed by the ahuras, the good spirits. Some of them are fallen angels who rebelled against Ahura Mazda, the supreme god of Zoroastrianism.
In the Gathas, the oldest texts of the Zoroastrian canon, the daevas are “gods that are rejected.” This meaning is, subject to interpretation, perhaps also evident in the Old Persian “daiva inscription” of the 5th century BCE. In the Younger Avesta, the daevas are divinities that promote chaos and disorder. The symbolism and interpretation of the daevas vary depending on the context and the source of the myth.
Modern Depictions
In modern times, the cultural significance of the daevas has evolved and expanded beyond its original religious context. They have been depicted in various forms of popular culture, including literature, film, and video games. In some depictions, they are portrayed as malevolent beings that threaten the world with their dark powers. In others, they are seen as misunderstood creatures who are victims of prejudice and discrimination.
The daevas have also been used as a source of inspiration for artists and writers who seek to explore themes of mythology, spirituality, and the human condition. They represent a complex and multifaceted aspect of Persian culture that continues to inspire and intrigue people around the world.
Comparative Mythology
Daeva and Demons
In Zoroastrianism, Daeva is a supernatural entity with disagreeable characteristics and is often associated with evil, chaos, and deception. They are followers of Ahriman, the malicious spirit in Zoroastrianism. Iranian folklore and literature, particularly in the epic Shahnameh, depicts daevas as otherworldly creatures who cause suffering and interference in human lives. Interestingly, the perceptions and meaning of daevas have evolved over time, leading to controversies and varied interpretations.
Similarities to Other Myths
Comparative mythology is the comparison of myths from different cultures in an attempt to identify shared themes and characteristics. Scholars have used the relationships between different myths to trace the development of religions and cultures, to propose common origins for myths from different cultures, and to identify universal archetypes. In this context, Daeva shares similarities with other mythological creatures such as demons. Demons are malevolent supernatural beings in various religions, including Christianity, Islam, and Judaism. They are often associated with evil, temptation, and sin and are believed to be agents of the devil. The similarities between Daeva and demons suggest that there may be a common origin for these mythological creatures.