Zoroastrianism

Chapter10— Vendidad, Fargard 1: The Sixteen Lands

◆ About this chapter

This section of the Vendidad, the sixth and final book of the Avesta, enumerates the sixteen primordial territories established by Ahura Mazda for humanity. It serves as a foundational cosmological and geographical framework within Zoroastrian scripture, delineating the ideal order of the world before the intrusion of chaos. The passage reflects ancient Iranian conceptions of sacred space and divine creation, offering insight into the religious geography of pre-Islamic Persia.

Translation:

About this translation

King James Version (1611)

1611 · Public domain

The most influential English translation ever made. Sometimes archaic, but the standard PD English text.

Translators commissioned by King James I of England, 1604–1611

Ahura Mazda spoke to Spitama Zarathushtra: 'There are sixteen good lands and countries which I, Ahura Mazda, have created.' ²The first was Airyana Vaejo, the second Sughdha, the third Mouru, the fourth Bakhdi. ³The fifth was Sarens, the sixth Varena, the seventh Haroyu, the eighth Vaekereta.

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— 10 —sacredatlas.org