Azhi Dahaka

Iranian mythology

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Last updated

June 18, 2026

Quick Summary

Azhi Dahaka, also known as Dahaka the Snake, is a monstrous, serpentine tyrant in Iranian mythology. He overthrew Yama, the first mortal and ruler, ushering in an era of drought, ruin, and chaos. This period of darkness was eventually ended by the hero Thraitauna, who defeated Azhi Dahaka and established a line of kings.1

In Zoroastrianism, the supreme god is Ahura Mazda, who created the universe and maintains cosmic order. Ahura Mazda created twin spirits: Spenta Mainyu, who represents truth, light, and life, and Angra Mainyu (Ahriman), who embodies deceit, darkness, and death. The ongoing struggle between these two spirits shapes the world and presents humanity with a constant choice between good and evil.2

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ancient Iranian religion
Creation of the cosmos
…by a serpentine tyrant named Azhi Dahāka (“Dahāka the Snake”), whose rule ushers in a period of drought, ruin, and chaos. In turn, Azhi Dahāka is defeated by the hero Thraitauna, who establishes the legendary line of kings called kavis.
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…by a serpentine tyrant named Azhi Dahāka (“Dahāka the Snake”), whose rule ushers in a period of drought, ruin, and chaos. In turn, Azhi Dahāka is defeated by the hero Thraitauna, who establishes the legendary line of kings called kavis.
Read More