Horse and the Avesta: A Contemplation on Discoveries in the Site of Abpa Strait, Farashband, in light of Resurrection in Zoroastrianism

Document Type : Research Paper

Authors

1 MA, Archeometry, Tabriz Islamic Art University, Tabriz, Iran

2 Assistant professor, Faculty of Cultural Materials Conservation, Tabriz Islamic Art University, Tabriz, Iran

3 MA, Archeology, Research Site of the Historical City of Bishapur, Shiraz, Iran

10.22034/jrr.2024.336106.2006

Abstract

This article describes and analyzes the archaeological findings at the Abpa site, situated in the Farashband plains, approximately 172 kilometers west of Shiraz. Notably, the site yielded 120 fragmented equine figurines. A distinct feature of these artifacts is the breakages and cracks concentrated in the head and external organs, which seem intentional. Upon careful analysis of the gathered evidence, a discernible behavioral pattern emerges. This pattern implies a structured ritual or ceremony characterized by the intentional breaking and subsequent burial of clay figurines. Considering the proximity of the site to the town of Farashband, located on a major transportation route connecting Firuzabad and Bushehr port, and the historical attribution of the town's construction to Bahram V, the Sassanid king, this article delves into the archaeological evidence. The interpretation of this evidence extends to the birth and dissemination of the Sassanid ideology and its pertinent discourse, drawing upon the Avesta to indicate possible theological dimensions of the putative rituals related to Abpa archeological deposit.

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References

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