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Zihrun

Zihrun is an uthra, a type of angel or guardian in the Mandaean World of Light. He is primarily known as the central figure in the Mandaean scroll "Zihrun Raza Kasia" and is associated with radiance, light, and glory. Zihrun also appears as a Mandaean male given name, borne by historical priests.

Key Facts

  • Zihrun is an uthra, an angelic or guardian being in Mandaean cosmology.
  • He is the principal subject of the Mandaean scripture "Zihrun Raza Kasia."
  • Zihrun is described as an uthra of radiance, light, and glory.
  • He is sometimes referred to as a "morning star" in Mandaean texts.
  • The name Zihrun also serves as a Mandaean male given name, used by historical priests.
Also Known As

Zahrun, Zahroon, Zihrun-Uthra, Yusmir-Kana, Zihrun Raza, Zihrun-Šašlamiel

Primary Role

Guardian, Revealer

Associated Elements

Light, Radiance, Glory

Symbols

Morning Star

Scriptural References
  • Right Ginza 4
  • Right Ginza 8
  • Mandaean Book of John 62
  • Qulasta Prayers 2, 3, 240, 319, 332, 340, 341, 347, 374
Related Entities

Manda D-Hayyi, Zhir

Etymology
Classical Mandaic: ࡆࡉࡄࡓࡅࡍ, lit. 'he [the Life] warned me'
Gender Depiction
masculine

About Zihrun

Zihrun is a significant uthra, a term for an angel or guardian, within the Mandaean World of Light. His name, derived from Classical Mandaic, translates to 'he [the Life] warned me,' and he is also known by variations such as Zahrun or Zahroon.

Role and Significance

Zihrun is most prominently recognized as the central figure of the Mandaean scripture "Zihrun Raza Kasia," often translated as 'Zihrun the Mystery.' Within Mandaean texts, he is consistently described as an uthra embodying radiance, light, and glory. He is also identified as a "morning star" in certain scriptures, suggesting a celestial and illuminating nature.

Scriptural Mentions

His presence is noted in various Mandaean writings. He appears in "Right Ginza 4" as Zihrun-Uthra (also known as Yusmir-Kana, where 'Kana' signifies 'source' or 'place') and in "Right Ginza 8." The "Mandaean Book of John 62" also references him as a "morning star." Furthermore, the "Qulasta" prayers frequently mention Zihrun, particularly in prayers 2, 3, 240, and 319 where he is called Zihrun Raza. Prayers 332, 340, 341, and 374 refer to him as the name of a "drabsha" (banner), and prayer 347 identifies him as Zihrun-Šašlamiel.

Associations and Naming

Zihrun is sometimes mentioned in association with another uthra named Zhir, whose name means 'secured.' The name Zihrun is also a recognized Mandaean male given name. Historically, notable Mandaean priests, such as Ram Zihrun of the 19th century, have borne this name, linking the celestial being to earthly lineage and religious authority.

Source: Wikipedia ↗

Frequently Asked Questions

What does the name Zihrun mean?

The name Zihrun derives from Classical Mandaic and literally means 'he [the Life] warned me'. It is also sometimes spelled Zahrun or Zahroon.

Who is Zihrun in Mandaean belief?

Zihrun is an uthra, which translates to an angel or guardian, within the Mandaean World of Light. He is a significant figure in their scriptures.

What is the "Zihrun Raza Kasia"?

Zihrun Raza Kasia is a Mandaean scroll where Zihrun is the main subject. The name itself translates to 'Zihrun the Mystery'.

How is Zihrun described in Mandaean texts?

Zihrun is characterized as an uthra of radiance, light, and glory. He is also referred to as a 'morning star' in some Mandaean scriptures.

Is Zihrun associated with any other angelic beings?

The uthra Zhir, meaning 'secured,' is often mentioned in conjunction with Zihrun, forming a pair.