– By Meher J. Dastoor

Parsi Times brings you a special 4-part series on Asho Sarosh Yazad, the Majestic Protector and Guide of All Creation. Counted among the foremost and mightiest of the Yazatas, Asho Sarosh Yazad stands as the eternal guardian of human souls, the upholder of divine law and the custodian of Dadar Ahura Mazda’s universe. From the time we are born, through the journey of life, and even after death, Sarosh Yazad remains the soul’s unfailing protector and guide across the Chinvat Bridge, ensuring progress, purity and divine connection. This series has been compiled from the wisdom of our holy scriptures and related insights shared by our revered priests, offering readers the depth of ancient texts with the clarity of learned guidance.

Among the celestial beings revered in Zoroastrianism, Sarosh Yazad holds a place of supreme honor. Known as Majiste Yazad, he is described as the greatest and foremost of the Yazatas, the chief among the divine guardians. Referred to as the Commander of Ahura Mazda’s universe (Salar-e-Damane-Ahura Mazda), he is also called the Expander of the Universe (Fradaat Gaethem), entrusted with upholding the holiest of holy laws of Ahura Mazda.

The 17^th day of every month is dedicated to him, and the 11^th Yasht is recited in his praise. His presence is felt across the angelic hierarchy, as all Yazatas bear within them the ‘Sarosh’ element or the divine quality of obedience. Ancient texts describe his body as being formed of Manthra, the sacred vibrations of prayer.

The word ‘Sarosh’ carries deep meaning in the Avesta, appearing across nine different contexts and interpretations. Derived from the Avestan root ‘Sru’, it means ‘to hear’, symbolizing the one who listens, speaks and faithfully conveys the divine message (Manthra-Farmaan Panaah-i-Sarosh Yazad). Sarosh Yazad is thus understood as the embodiment of obedience to God’s command. He is the ‘Law of Laws’ and is reverently titled ‘Dastur-e-Dasturan’, the spiritual teacher of teachers. In Avestan astronomy, Sarosh is the name of the Pole Star, the fixed guiding light in the heavens.

Sarosh Yazad embodies the will of Ahura Mazda in Creation, Preservation, Regeneration and Justice. By divine decree, the powers of establishing order, bringing reform, and safeguarding truth flow through him into the universe at the right time and place. As the guardian angel of human souls, Sarosh Yazad stands as one of the chief judges who guide departed souls across the Chinvat Pul, the bridge of judgment. He is also remembered as the very first in creation to worship Ahura Mazda and the Amesha Spentas, setting the eternal example of devotion.

Sarosh Yazad is also described as the bearer of a unique energy called Tagi, his celestial weapon to vanquish evil and obstacles to human spiritual growth. His mighty force is expressed through Manthra Spentas or sacred words of power that destroy falsehood and uphold truth. Wherever Sarosh Yazad is present, the will of Ahura Mazda is firmly established. To truly understand the Amesha Spentas is to first understand Sarosh Yazad, for he is the living bridge between God and humanity. Through him, faith in Ahura Mazda becomes real and personal, as he draws us nearer to the divine presence that hears our prayers and responds with love. In this sense, Sarosh Yazad represents the path of devotion that unites the human soul with God while preserving its individuality.

Sarosh Yazad is described as the ever-vigilant guardian who never sleeps, rests or pauses; He constantly watches over the entire creation of Dadar Ahura Mazda. His presence resides in two places – at the highest level of Cosmic Consciousness and in his radiant, star-studded abode known as the ‘1,001-Pillared Home’. Through its thousand channels flow the divine vibrations of the Ahunavar, which Sarosh Yazad guides and directs. These sacred currents enter and empower every Atashbehram fire, making each one a reflection of his presence.

Sarosh Yazad is also said to dwell within the highest spiritual center, the ‘Lahyan Chakra’, of aspirants. For the devout, his protection is not only cosmic but also deeply personal. He strengthens their inner being, renews their spiritual energy and makes their homes sanctuaries safeguarded by his divine power, remembered in the prayer: Vispa Nmana Sraosho Pata or ‘all homes protected by Asho Sarosh Yazad!’

Sarosh Yazad is envisioned as eternally youthful, radiant, strong, swift and victorious. His dazzling chariot, drawn by four shining white steeds, moves faster than rain, swifter than birds and keener than an arrow in flight. His companions are the rooster, who announces the dawn and the faithful dog, who guides pious souls on their onward journey. It is said that Sarosh Yazad descends upon earth – thrice through the day and thrice through the night – to vanquish the forces of evil. Tireless, without pause for rest or sleep, He remains ceaselessly vigilant, caring for every element of creation on behalf of Dadar Ahura Mazda. To call upon Sarosh Yazad is to invoke the very essence of divine protection, obedience and faith – qualities that guide the soul on its journey toward light and truth.