Faravahar

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The Faravahar symbol, a renowned emblem of Zoroastrianism and the ancient Persian state religion, is adapted from the "winged sun" hieroglyph found on Bronze Age seals. Its historical influences are evident in the art and culture of the Near and Middle East. Although currently representing a Fravashi or guardian angel, the symbol's original meaning remains unclear due to its appearance on royal inscriptions, possibly symbolizing 'Divine Royal Glory,' the Fravashi of the king, or the divine mandate underlying a king's authority. In contemporary Zoroastrianism, Faravahar serves as a reminder for individuals to live lives promoting their souls' progression towards frasho-kereti - union with Ahura Mazda, the supreme divinity in Zoroastrianism. Despite the Islamic conquest of Iran and the adoption of Islam, Zoroastrian elements, such as festivities and the Faravahar symbol, persisted within Iranian culture. The Faravahar icon was embraced by the Pahlavi dynasty to represent the Iranian nation, and despite being replaced by the Lion and Sun emblem in Iran's national flag after the Islamic Revolution of 1979, it remains a cherished symbol among Iranians as an emblem of their cultural heritage. While Zoroastrianism is no longer Iran's state religion, Faravahar continues to hold significance as a traditional and customary symbol of modern and ancient Iran. The design was created using CATIA software in the CATIA IRAN Community forum.