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Zahreil

Zahreil is a significant figure in Mandaeism, identified as the daughter of Qin, sister of Ruha, and mother of Ptahil. She is a lilith from the World of Darkness who plays a crucial role in childbirth, ensuring the well-being of both mother and child. Her notable act involves marrying Hibil Ziwa and subsequently giving birth to Ptahil, the creator of the material universe.

Key Facts

  • Zahreil is a Mandaean deity.
  • She is the daughter of Qin and sister of Ruha.
  • Zahreil is the mother of Ptahil, the creator of the material universe.
  • She is described as a lilith from the World of Darkness.
  • Zahreil dwells in the beds of pregnant women to ensure the child's well-being.
  • She is considered a genius of childbirth.
Alternate Names

ZahrʿIl, Lilita

Rank / role
Mother of Ptahil, guardian of childbirth
Domains Of Influence

Childbirth, Well-Being of Newborns, Material Universe Creation

Abilities Powers
  • Ensuring the Well-Being of Children Before and After Birth
  • Giving Birth To the Creator of the Material Universe
Source Texts

Book 5 of the Right Ginza

Associated Figures

Qin, Ruha, Ptahil, Hibil Ziwa

Ritual Lore

Dwells In the Beds of Pregnant Women.

About Zahreil

Zahreil is a significant figure within Mandaeism, a Gnostic religion. She is primarily known as the daughter of Qin, the sister of the malevolent deity Ruha, and critically, the mother of Ptahil, who is credited with the creation of the material universe. Zahreil herself is identified as a lilith originating from the World of Darkness (alma d-hšuka).

Role in Mandaean Cosmology

Zahreil's most prominent role is associated with childbirth. She is described as dwelling in the beds of pregnant women, where her presence is believed to ensure the health and well-being of the child both before and after birth. E. S. Drower, a noted scholar of Mandaeism, characterized Zahreil as a "genius of childbirth." Her mythological importance is further underscored by her union with Hibil Ziwa, a benevolent spiritual being, during his descent into the World of Darkness. This union results in the birth of Ptahil, a pivotal creator deity in Mandaean theology.

Source: Wikipedia ↗

Frequently Asked Questions

Who is Zahreil in Mandaeism?

Zahreil is a prominent figure in Mandaeism, known as the daughter of Qin, sister of Ruha, and mother of Ptahil. She is a lilith from the World of Darkness who plays a vital role in childbirth.

What is Zahreil's connection to Ptahil?

Zahreil is the mother of Ptahil. According to Mandaean texts, she gave birth to Ptahil after marrying Hibil Ziwa during his descent to the World of Darkness.

What is Zahreil's role in childbirth?

Zahreil is a lilith who resides in the beds of pregnant women. Her presence is believed to ensure the well-being of the child before and after birth, and she is described as a genius of childbirth.

What is Zahreil's origin?

Zahreil originates from the World of Darkness (alma d-hšuka) in Mandaean cosmology. She is a lilith, a type of spirit associated with this realm.