In the Zoroastrian calendar, the second day of each month and the eleventh month (current as per Shahenshahi calendar) of the year are dedicated to Bahman Amshaspand. The name Bahman is derived from the Pahlavi Wahman, which in turn comes from the Avestan Vohu Manah, translated as the ‘Good Mind’. Bahman Amshaspand holds a revered position in the Zoroastrian pantheon, ranking just below Ahura Mazda. As one of the Amesha Spentas or Bounteous Immortals, Bahman is entrusted with the guardianship of Ahura Mazda’s Good Creation of animals, especially domestic creatures like cows, goats, and sheep (goshpands).
In honour of this divine responsibility, devout Parsis abstain from consuming meat throughout the month of Bahman. Even those who do not observe the full month-long fast make it a point to avoid meat on Bahman Roj of Bahman Mah and on the days dedicated to Bahman’s co-workers – Mohor, Gosh and Ram.
Spiritually, Bahman embodies the ethical ideal of the Good Mind. Thus, refraining from meat on these days is more than ritual… it is an act of inner purification, a conscious practice of non-violence, and a step towards attaining higher spiritual wisdom through respect for Ahura Mazda’s creation. Top of Form
Traditionally, Zoroastrians are expected to observe the month of Bahman by following a simple vegetarian diet consisting of ann, fal, and shak – grains, fruits and vegetables. However, true to Parsi spirit, many find it difficult to sustain themselves on what they humorously term, “ghaas phoos!”.
As a result, some consider eggs acceptable during this period, while others stretch the logic further, arguing that fish and fowl are permissible since aquatic creatures with fins and two-legged birds are not considered goshpands. To each their own! Ultimately, the true essence of observing the Bahman month lies in doing so with faith, humility, and understanding, not just dietary compliance.
In the Gathas, Prophet Zarathushtra affirms that the path to Ahura Mazda is through Vohu Manah – the Good Mind. Thus, invoking Bahman Amshaspand is seen as a step closer to divinity. At an ethical level, choosing rightly with the guidance of the Good Mind aligns one with Ahura Mazda, the Lord of Wisdom. Later Zoroastrian texts refer to the Sudreh as the ‘Vohu Manah Vastra’ or the Garment of Bahman, believed to grant wisdom. The Kushti tied around it is called the Girdle of Sarosh Yazata, offering divine protection. Even Emperor Artaxerxes II adopted Vohu Manah as part of his regal title, later Hellenized as ‘Mnemon.’
In the Zoroastrian calendar, no day is allocated towards total fasting from food. The only fast observed traditionally is the fast from consuming meat during Bahman Mahino. No special prayers or ceremonies are performed during this month. One is only expected to intake a simple vegetarian diet as an act of spiritual discipline.
In today’s world, the blessings of Bahman Ameshaspand are more vital and relevant than ever before. As the divine guardian of our thoughts and minds, Bahman also watches over the animal kingdom – both vital aspects of creation that require our care and reverence. Let us take a moment to offer our prayers for all animals and honour Bahman Ameshaspand by respecting and protecting his creations. May Vohu Manah, the Good Mind, awaken within us the wisdom to restore and maintain the delicate balance of our planet, in harmony with the laws of nature and nurture. Let us pray that this divine wisdom prevails in the hearts and minds of those in positions of power and governance, guiding them to act in the best interest of the greater good.
The following is the Setayesh (invocation) of Bahman Ameshaspand. This brief yet powerful prayer is to be recited after performing your Kusti, Sarosh Baaj and Geh. It serves as a concise alternative to the full Bahman Yasht, a longer prayer that is both rare and difficult to access. Take this opportunity to connect with Bahman Ameshaspand and invite the grace of Vohu Manah into your daily life:
May Bahman Amshaspand Bless our community with Vohu Manah and wisdom!
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