New Naqqaliشاهنامه
Glossary & Notes

Glossary

The people, places, Persian terms and objects of the Shahnameh, merged from the glossaries of all three volumes: 1,013 headwords, each with its Persian spelling, pronunciation and where it first appears in the poem.

A

abirعبیرa-BEERTerms

A fragrant powder of musk, rosewater and saffron, sprinkled on letters and garments. Vol I, II, III · first at B9.17

Abtinآبتینab-TEENPeople

Fereydoon’s father, killed by Zahhak. Vol I · first at A5.3

Fereydoon's father, killed by Zahhak. Vol III · first at E6.18

Abu Bakr and Umarابوبکر، عمرa-BOO BAKR, o-MARPeople

The first and second caliphs, praised in the prologue. Vol III · first at E10.2

Abu Bakr and Uthmanابوبکر، عثمانa-BOO BAKR, os-MAHNPeople

The first and third caliphs, praised in the prologue. Vol I · first at A0.7

Abul-Muzaffarابوالمظفرa-bol-mo-ZAF-farPeople

Nasr, brother of Sultan Mahmud and his sepahbod, praised by the poet. Vol III · first at D6.1

Abul-Qasimابوالقاسمa-bol-GHAH-semPeople

The honorific name of Sultan Mahmud, Ferdowsi's patron. Vol I, II, III · first at A0.12

Abu Nasr Warraqابونصر ورّاقa-boo nasr war-RAHQPeople

A copyist who, through the poet's book, gained much from nobles of distinguished line. Vol III · first at E11

Adanعدنa-DANPlaces

Aden in Arabia, famed for its gems. Vol III · first at D9.5

Afrasiabافراسیابaf-rah-see-YAHBPeople

King of Turan, son of Pashang, Iran’s great enemy; killer of Nohzar and Siavash. Vol I · first at B1.2

King of Turan, son of Pashang, Iran's great enemy; killer of Nohzar and Siavash. Seized at last by the hermit Hum, he is put to death by Kay Khosrow. Vol II · first at C1.4

King of Turan and Iran's great enemy, who kills Nohzar and Siavash and whose cruel rule ends when Kay Khosrow comes. Vol III · first at D6.15

afsunافسونaf-SOONTerms

Spell or charm; by extension, persuasive craft and cunning. Vol I · first at A6.3

Aghrirasاغریرثagh-ree-RAHSPeople

Afrasiab’s gentle brother, killed by Afrasiab for sparing Iranian captives. Vol I · first at B1.2

Afrasiab's gentle brother, killed by Afrasiab for sparing Iranian captives. Vol II · first at C4.20

Ahmadاحمدah-MADPeople

Name of the father of the vizier Fazl, and of Ahmad son of Sahl, lord of Marv, with whom Azad Sarv lived. Vol II · first at C4.1

Ahranاهرنah-RANPeople

A prince of Rum of Caesar's kin, who seeks the hand of Caesar's daughter. Vol II · first at C5.11

Ahrimanاهریمنah-ree-MANTerms

The Evil Spirit, adversary of the Creator and source of all harm; father of the Divs. Vol I, II, III · first at A1.1

Ahvazاهوازah-VAHZPlaces

A city of south-western Iran. Vol I, II, III · first at A8.10

Ajalاجلa-JALTerms

The appointed hour of death, which no one escapes. Vol I · first at B9.5

Ajamعجمa-JAMPlaces

The non-Arab, Persian world, set against the Arabs. Vol III · first at E11

Akvanاکوان دیوak-VAHNPeople

The Div whom Rostam fights in the tale that follows this volume. Vol I · first at B14.28

A Div who haunts the royal herds in the form of a wild ass, hurls the sleeping Rostam into the sea, and is slain by him. His huge stone later seals Bijan's pit. Vol II · first at C1.2

Alanonsدژ الانانah-lah-NOHNSPlaces

The fortress by the sea where Tur‘s and Salm’s forces take refuge. Vol I · first at A6.19

The fortress by the sea where Tur's and Salm's forces take refuge. The text also has 'Alan' for the people of those marches. Vol II · first at C3.3

The Alan people of the marches by the sea, raiders on Iran's borders who submit to Anooshirvan. Vol III · first at D13.7

Alborzالبرزal-BORZPlaces

The sacred mountain where Fereydoon was hidden and the Simorgh made her nest, and where Kay Qobad was found. Vol I · first at A5.3

The great mountain of Iran, a byword for height. Vol III · first at D10.16

Aliعلیa-LEEPeople

Cousin and son-in-law of the Prophet, the fourth caliph; also called Haidar and the Wasi. Vol I · first at A0.7

(1) Cousin and son-in-law of the Prophet, the fourth caliph, who pleads for those who love him on the Judgment Day. (2) Ali the Dilamite, a noble who kept the poet's work progressing toward its goal. Vol III · first at D13.19

Alkusالکوسal-KOOSPeople

A Turanian champion defeated by Rostam in the fight of the seven warriors. Vol I · first at B7.3

Almas Riverالماسal-MAHSPlaces

A river on Rostam’s line of march. Vol I · first at B14.21

Altuniyaآلتونیهal-too-nee-YAHPlaces

A place where Farrokhzad turns to fight the enemy. Vol III · first at E10.7

Alvaالواal-VAHPeople

A Zabuli warrior in Rostam’s train, killed by Kamus. Vol I · first at B13.31

Rostam's spear-bearer, killed by Nush Azar, son of Esfandiyar. Vol II · first at C8.22

ammariعماریam-mah-REEObjects

A canopied litter carried on an elephant or camel. Vol I, II · first at A8.22

Amolآملah-MOLPlaces

A city in Tabaristan, south of the Caspian. Vol I, II, III · first at A6.1

AmrعمروAMRPeople

A young Arab horseman who, with Abbas, raids Iran in Hormizd's reign. Vol III · first at E5.4

Amuriyahعموریهah-moo-REE-yahPlaces

A fortress city of Rum, seat of Caesar. Vol II · first at D3.3

A city of Rum from which Anooshirvan marches on Halab. Vol III · first at E4.2

Amuyآمویah-MOO-yPlaces

A town on the Jihun at the river crossing between Iran and Turan. Vol II · first at C3.2

A town by the Jihun at the river crossing between Iran and Turan. Vol III · first at D10.21

Anbohانبهan-BOHPlaces

A mountain on Tus’s march. Vol I · first at B12.3

Andalusاندلسan-da-LOOSPlaces

The western land ruled by the wise queen Kaydafa. Vol II · first at D5.17

Andarabاندرابan-da-RAHBPlaces

A district near Balkh on the Iran–Turan border. Vol II · first at C3.20

Andarimanاندریمانan-da-ree-MAHNPeople

A Turanian noble at Afrasiab’s court. Vol I · first at B9.33

A Turanian noble at Afrasiab's court. Vol II · first at C3.6

Andariman (brother of Arjasp)اندریمانan-da-ree-MANPeople

Brother of Arjasp and commander of one of his wings; Esfandiyar hangs him at the gate of Ruyin Dezh. Vol II · first at C6.8

Andiyanاندیانan-dee-YAHNPeople

An Iranian chief, companion of Shapur, who follows Khosrow Parviz to Rum and is rewarded with a province. Vol III · first at E6.4

Anooshirvanانوشیروانah-noo-sheer-VAHNPeople

The Sasanian king of kings, son of Qobad, renowned for justice and wise counsel. Vol III · first at D6.1

Antakiyaانطاکیهan-tah-kee-YAHPlaces

Antioch, a city of Rum taken by Anooshirvan. Vol III · first at D13.13

Aranآرانah-RAHNPlaces

A town with a hospital that Qobad builds between Ahvaz and Pars, called Holvan by the Arabs. Vol III · first at D12.5

Arashکی آرشkay ah-RASHPeople

Second son of Kay Qobad. Vol I · first at B3.5

The legendary archer of Manuchehr's reign, a byword for a mighty bowshot; also an allied chief in Kay Khosrow's host. Vol II · first at C4.2

The legendary archer of Manuchehr's reign, a byword for a mighty bowshot, from whom the Ashkanian kings and Bahram Chubin claim descent; also an Ashkanian king and a marzban at Yazdegard's death. Vol III · first at D6.2

Arastatilisارسطاطالیسa-ras-tah-TAH-leesPeople

Aristotle, the wise counselor of Iskandar. Vol II · first at D4.2

ArdاردARDTerms

The twenty-fifth day of the Persian month, named for the guardian of wealth and blessing. Vol I, II, III · first at B9.43

Ardabilاردبیلar-da-BEELPlaces

A city of Azarbaijan. Vol I, II, III · first at B10.33

Ardavanاردوانar-da-VAHNPeople

The last great Ashkanian king, ruling from Rey, whom Ardeshir overthrows and kills. Vol III · first at D6.2

Ardeshirاردشیرar-da-SHEERPeople

Name of several men: Goshtasb's son slain in the war with Arjasp, a grandson of Giv, and Bahman, son of Esfandiyar. Vol II · first at C5.17

Name of several men. Three Sasanian kings have their own entries: Ardeshir Babakan, Ardeshir (brother of Shapur) and Ardeshir (son of Shiruyeh). Also Bahman Ardeshir and a Mobad. Vol III · first at D6.3

Ardeshir Babakanاردشیر بابکانar-da-SHEER bah-ba-KAHNPeople

Grandson of Babak, of Sasan's line, who overthrows Ardavan and founds the Sasanian house. Vol III · first at D6.3

Ardeshir (brother of Shapur)اردشیرar-da-SHEERPeople

Brother of Shapur Zul-Aktaf, who rules ten years for his nephew, takes no tax, and keeps his oath to return the crown; called the Beneficent. Vol III · first at D8.1

Ardeshir (son of Shiruyeh)اردشیرar-da-SHEERPeople

Shiruyeh's young son, who takes the throne after him; Guraz contrives his death. Vol III · first at E9.1

Ardibeheshtاردیبهشتar-dee-be-HESHTTerms

The second month of the Persian year, in spring. Vol III · first at E10.10

Arezuآرزوah-re-ZOOPeople

The jeweler Mahiyar's daughter, a singer and harpist, whom Bahram Goor marries. Vol III · first at D10.14

Arezu, Mah-e Azadeh, Sahiآرزو، ماه آزاده، سهیah-re-ZOO, sa-HEEPeople

The three princesses of Yemen, married to Salm, Tur and Iraj. Vol I · first at A6.6

arghavanارغوانar-gha-VAHNTerms

The Judas tree, whose purple-red blossom stands for a blushing cheek. Vol I · first at A8.4

Arjaspارجاسپar-JAHSPPeople

A Turanian prince at Afrasiab’s court. Vol I · first at B9.33

King of Turan and Chin in Goshtasb's reign, who makes war on Iran over Zardosht's faith and kills Lohrasp; Esfandiyar slays him in Ruyin Dezh. Vol II · first at C6.1

King of Turan and Chin, of Afrasiab's line, who ravages Iran and kills Lohrasp, and whom Esfandiyar strikes down in Ruyin Dezh. Vol III · first at E1.4

Armanارمانar-MAHNPlaces

The Armenian lands. Vol I, III · first at B1.9

Armayl and Garmaylارمایل و گرمایلar-MAH-yel, gar-MAH-yelPeople

Two pious men who become Zahhak’s cooks and save one of the two youths killed each day; from those saved the Kurds descend. Vol I · first at A5.1

Armeniaارمینیهar-mee-NEE-yehPlaces

A land in the northwest of the realm, on the Khazar border. Vol III · first at D13.3

Arnavazارنوازar-na-VAHZPeople

Daughter of Jamshid, taken by Zahhak and freed by Fereydoon, who marries her. Vol I · first at A5.1

arradaعرادهar-rah-DEHObjects

A light siege engine for hurling stones. Vol II · first at C4.21

Artangارتنگar-TANGTerms

The illustrated book of the painter-prophet Mani; a byword for beautiful painting. Vol I, III · first at B3.4

Arusعروسah-ROOSObjects

'The Bride,' the first of Khosrow Parviz's great treasures, filled from Chin and Rum. Vol III · first at E7.8

Arvandاروندar-VANDPlaces

The Tigris, which the Arabs call the Dijla. Vol I · first at A5.6

The Tigris. Vol III · first at D8.1.1

Arzhangارژنگ دیوar-ZHANGPeople

A Div commander of Mazandaran, killed by Rostam in the Seven Trials. Vol II · first at C2.10

Arzhang Divارژنگ دیوar-ZHANGPeople

A Div commander of Mazandaran, killed by Rostam in the Seven Trials. Vol I · first at B4.3

Asbanbarاسپانبرas-bahn-BARPlaces

The royal seat at Tisfoon, within the palace Anooshirvan made, where the Shah went to take his portion of the festival. Vol III · first at E6.30

AshkاشکASHKPeople

A king named by Roshanak among the rulers who fell before Iskandar. Vol II · first at D5.39

A king of Qobad's line, first of the Ashkanians who rule after Iskandar divides the realm. Vol III · first at D6.2

Ashkabusاشکبوسash-ka-BOOSPeople

A Kashani champion whom Rostam, on foot, kills with one arrow. Vol I · first at B13.28

Ashkaniansاشکانیانash-kah-nee-YAHNPlaces

The Parthian dynasty descended from Arash, whose last king Ardavan falls to Ardeshir. Vol III · first at D6.2

Ashkashاشکشash-KASHPeople

An Iranian commander under Kay Khosrow. Vol I, II · first at B11.3

Ashtadاشتادash-TAHDPeople

An Iranian noble and warrior of Khosrow Parviz; with Kharrad Barzin he carries Qobad's message to the imprisoned Khosrow. Vol III · first at E6.25

Aurandاورندow-RANDPeople

Father of Lohrasp, of the line of Kay Pashin. Vol II · first at C8.16

Avazaآوازهa-vah-ZAHPlaces

The treasure fortress where Parmudeh shuts himself in after his defeat. Vol III · first at E5.12

Awkhastاوخاستow-KHASTPeople

A Turanian champion slain by Zangeh in the battle of the champions. Vol II · first at C3.6

Ayin Gashaspآیین گشسپah-YEEN ga-SHASPPeople

A Pahlevan of Hormizd's court sent against the rebel Bahram, murdered on the way. Vol III · first at E5.26

Azadehآزادهah-zah-DEHPeople

Bahram's coral-cheeked Roman harpist and favorite, who rides with him to the hunt. Vol III · first at D9.3

Azad Sarvآزادسروah-ZAHD SARVPeople

An old sage of Marv, of Ahmad son of Sahl's household, whose account of Rostam's death the poet follows. Vol II · first at C9.1

A courtier Anooshirvan sends to find an interpreter for his dream; at Marv he finds the young Bozorgmehr. Vol III · first at D13.20.1

Azar Abadaganآذرآبادگانah-zar ah-bah-da-GAHNPlaces

Azarbaijan, seat of the Azargashasp fire. Vol I, II, III · first at B11.3

Azar Afruzآذرافروزah-zar-a-FROOZPeople

The third son of Esfandiyar. Vol II · first at C6.23

Azargashaspآذرگشسپah-zar-go-SHASPTerms

One of the three great sacred fires of ancient Iran, kept at Shiz in Azarbaijan; the fire of warriors and kings. Its blaze is a byword for a hero’s fury. Vol I · first at A7.4

One of the three great sacred fires of ancient Iran, kept at Shiz in Azarbaijan; the fire of warriors and kings. Its blaze is a byword for a hero's fury. Vol II · first at C1.3

One of the three great sacred fires of ancient Iran, kept in Azar Abadagan, the fire of warriors and kings whose blaze is a byword for brilliance and fury. Vol III · first at D6.3

azarmآزرمah-ZARMTerms

Modesty and courteous regard; the respect owed to rank and kin. Vol I · first at B10.25

Azarmidokhtآزرمدختah-zar-mee-DOKHTPeople

A Sasanian queen who takes the crown after Poorandokht. Vol III · first at E9.5

B

Babakبابکbah-BAKPeople

Lord of Istakhr under Ardavan, who takes Sasan into his service and raises Ardeshir; also Anooshirvan's Mobad who musters the army. Vol III · first at D6.2

Babilبابلbah-BELPlaces

Babylon, where Iskandar falls ill and dies. Vol II · first at D5.34

Babr-e Bayanببر بیانBABR-e ba-YAHNObjects

Rostam’s invulnerable battle-coat of tiger skin; also called simply the babr. Vol I · first at B4.4

Rostam's invulnerable battle-coat of tiger skin; also called simply the babr. Vol II · first at C1.3

BabylonبابلBA-bi-lonPlaces

Babylon, the ancient land of Mesopotamia, ravaged with Iran in the Arab invasion and a source of craftsmen for Khosrow Parviz's throne. Vol III · first at E7.5

Badakhshanبدخشانba-dakh-SHAHNPlaces

A mountain land famed for rubies. Vol I, II, III · first at A8.15

Badan-Piroozبادان‌پیروزbah-DAHN pee-ROOZPlaces

A fair city built by Pirooz. Vol III · first at D11.3.2

Badavardبادآوردbah-dah-VARDObjects

A royal treasure-house heaped with crowns and gems, to be spent on restoring the ruined land. Vol II · first at C4.56

Bad AwarبادآورBAHD a-VAHRObjects

One of Khosrow Parviz's great treasures, a hoard too vast to count. Vol III · first at E7.8

Baghzadilaبغزادیلاbagh-za-dee-LAHPeople

A Turanian chief, of Tur's line, who joins Afrasiab against Kay Khosrow. Vol II · first at C4.14

Bahilaباهلهba-hee-LAHPlaces

A town beyond the desert where Khosrow Parviz halts in his flight to Rum. Vol III · first at E6.13

Bahmanبهمنbah-MANPeople

Son of Esfandiyar, entrusted to Rostam's care, who succeeds Goshtasb as Shah and wreaks vengeance on Zabul; father of Homahyi. Vol II · first at C2.17

Name of several men: chiefly Bahman son of Esfandiyar, the king who brings vengeance on Nariman's house; also Ardavan's eldest son, and a keen-witted sage at Anooshirvan's court. Vol III · first at D6.3

Bahman-dizدژ بهمنdezh-e bah-MANPlaces

The Div-haunted fortress Kay Khosrow conquers. Vol I · first at B10.33

Bahramبهرامbah-RAHMPeople

Son of Gudarz, a champion killed in the Forood campaign; also the planet Mars. Vol I · first at A9.5

The planet Mars; also a champion of Goshtasb's reign, of Zarasp's kin. Vol II · first at C2.1

Name of several kings and champions. Bahram Goor, Bahram Chubin, Bahram Bahramian and three early Sasanian kings have their own entries; also an Ashkanian king and Bahram son of Siavash. Also the planet Mars. Vol III · first at D6.1

Bahram Azarmihanبهرام آذرمهانbah-RAHM ah-zar-mee-HAHNPeople

A noble whom Hormizd compels to denounce his friend Simah Barzin. Vol III · first at E5.2

Bahram Bahramianبهرام بهرامیانbah-RAHM bah-rah-mee-YAHNPeople

Bahram son of Bahram, a Sasanian king, also named Kermanshah. Vol III · first at D7.16

Bahram-chidبهرام‌چیدbah-rahm-CHEEDPlaces

The mountain of Roman dead piled up after the battle with Bahram Chubin, named for him. Vol III · first at E6.24

Bahram Chubinبهرام چوبینهbah-RAHM choo-BEENPeople

The swarthy Iranian sepahbod of Pahlevan descent who wins great victories and later wars against Khosrow. Vol III · first at E5.5

Bahram Goorبهرام گورbah-RAHM GOORPeople

The Sasanian king famed for hunting, feasting and his adventures in disguise. Vol III · first at D9.3

Bahram (son of Bahram)بهرامbah-RAHMPeople

Sasanian king who succeeds his father and namesake and rules justly nineteen years. Vol III · first at D7.15

Bahram (son of Hormizd)بهرامbah-RAHMPeople

Sasanian king, son of Hormizd, who reigns three years and opens his treasury to the poor. Vol III · first at D7.13

Bahram (son of Shapur)بهرامbah-RAHMPeople

Sasanian king who reigns fourteen years and, leaving no son, gives the crown to his brother Yazdegard. Vol III · first at D8.4

Baigandبیکندbay-GANDPlaces

The place where Khoshnavaz chooses his battlefield against Sofrye. Vol III · first at D11.4.3

Baikandبیکندbay-KANDPlaces

A Turanian city, seat of Afrasiab's court. Vol II · first at C4.3

Bait al-Muqaddasبیت‌المقدسBEYT-ol mo-ghad-DASPlaces

‘The Holy House’: here Zahhak’s city, Gang Dezh-Hokht. Vol I · first at A5.6

Baitul Haramبیت‌الحرامBEYT-ol ha-RAHMPlaces

'The Sacred House': the Kaaba at Mecca. Vol II · first at D5.16

bajباژBAHZHTerms

The murmured Zoroastrian grace said over food, with barsom in hand. Vol III · first at E5.2

Bakhtarباخترbakh-TARPlaces

The West; also Bactria. Vol I, II, III · first at A8.22

Balawshبلاشba-LAHSHPeople

Younger son of Pirooz, set on the throne in his place until Sofrye restores his brother Qobad. Vol III · first at D11.3.2

BalkhبلخBALKHPlaces

A great city of Khorasan, Iran’s frontier base against Turan. Vol I · first at B6.8

A great city of Khorasan, Iran's frontier base against Turan; later Lohrasp's seat, with the Nowbahar fire temple. Vol II · first at C3.5

A great city of Khorasan near the Jihun. Vol III · first at D10.22

Baluchistanبلوچستانba-loo-che-STAHNPlaces

The land of the Baluch. Vol I, III · first at B9.16

Balviبالویbal-VEEPeople

An Iranian noble who goes with Khosrow Parviz to Caesar's court and is later given Chakh. Vol III · first at E6.14

Bamiبامیbah-MEEPlaces

A place named with Balkh. Vol III · first at E2.1

Bamiyanبامیانbah-mee-YAHNPlaces

A land of the eastern marches, named among the Kayan homelands on Iran's frontier. Vol II · first at C3.20

bānبانBAHNTerms

The ben tree, whose seeds yield a fragrant oil. Vol I · first at A4.1

Bandavarبندوارban-da-VARPeople

The lord of Sind who fights Iskandar. Vol II · first at D5.33

Bandviبندویban-DOO-yeePeople

Khosrow Parviz's maternal uncle, who with his brother Gostaham blinds Hormizd and stands by Khosrow in his flight. Vol III · first at D12.7

Banu Gashaspبانوگشسبbah-noo-go-SHASPPeople

Rostam’s daughter, married to Giv. Vol I · first at B10.15

Barahamبراهامba-rah-HAMPeople

A rich, miserly Jew whose hoard Bahram Goor has seized and given away. Vol III · first at D10.3

Baranushبرانوشba-rah-NOOSHPeople

A Roman commander captured in battle, who becomes the Shah's counselor and builds a great bridge. Vol III · first at D7.12.2

Barbadباربدbahr-BADPeople

The great minstrel of Khosrow Parviz, who laments his fall. Vol III · first at E7.6

Barbarبربر / بربرستانbar-BARPlaces

A land allied with Hamavaran against Kavus. Vol I, II · first at B6.1

A distant land whose captives Anooshirvan settles in Sursan, and whose fabrics are prized. Vol III · first at E1.3

barbatبربطbar-BATObjects

A short-necked lute. Vol I, II · first at A8.22

Bardaبردعbar-DAHPlaces

A city of the northwest whose chiefs fight for Kay Khosrow; near it Afrasiab hides in a mountain cave. Vol II · first at C4.2

A city of the northwest, near Ardabil, whose envoys and fighting men appear at the Sasanian court and in its wars. Vol III · first at E1.6

Barghavanبرغوانbar-gha-VAHNPlaces

A place from which, rumor says, Esfandiyar set out on the Seven Stages. Vol II · first at C7.9

Bargirasبرگیراسbar-gee-RASPeople

A long-bearded Turanian chief who leads thirty thousand of Afrasiab's warriors in the great war. Vol II · first at C4.3

bargostvanبرگستوانbar-gost-VAHNObjects

Armor for a war-horse. Vol I, II, III · first at A6.25

Barkoohبرکوهbar-KOOHPlaces

A place near Jaz whose merchants bring wares to Bahram's camp. Vol III · first at D10.17

Barmanبارمانbahr-MAHNPeople

A Turanian champion who kills Qobad in single combat. Vol I · first at B1.2

A Turanian champion who kills Qobad in single combat; he is later slain by Rohham in the Battle of the Twelve Rokhs. Vol II · first at C3.28

Barmayehبرمایهbar-mah-YEHPeople

The wondrous cow whose milk nourished the infant Fereydoon in hiding; Zahhak had her killed. Vol I · first at A5.2

Barsamبرسامbar-SAMPeople

A commander of Chin whom Bijan sends with ten thousand horsemen, and who rides toward Farab to seize the fleeing Mahwi. Vol III · first at E10.9

barsomبرسمbar-SOMTerms

A bundle of sacred twigs held by priests at prayer. Vol II, III · first at C6.30

Bartasبرطاسbar-TAHSPlaces

A northern land named with Rus and Chin as a source of treasure and troops. Vol III · first at E7.8

Barzinبرزینbar-ZEENPeople

An Iranian champion. Vol I, II · first at B1.12

Azar Barzin, one of the three great sacred fires of Iran. Also the name of several men: the old dehqan whose three daughters marry Bahram Goor, Ram Barzin (Mobad and general of Qobad and Anooshirvan), and the father of Kharrad Barzin. Vol III · first at D9.6

Barzin-fireآذر برزینbar-ZEENTerms

Azar Barzin, one of the three great sacred fires of Iran. Vol I, II · first at A7.1

Barzviبرزویborz-VEEPeople

The learned physician who brings the book Kalila from Hind to Anooshirvan; also the name Bahram Goor gives himself at Shangul's court. Vol III · first at D10.29

Batarunبطرونba-ta-ROONPeople

A Roman leader whose legions are routed at Halab. Vol III · first at E4.2

Bazoorبازورbah-ZOORPeople

A Turanian sorcerer who conjures a snowstorm on Mount Hamavan; Rohham cuts off his hand. Vol I · first at B13.10

Beheshtبهشتbe-HESHTPlaces

'Paradise': the name of the pleasant land around Afrasiab's fortress-city of Gang-Behesht. Vol II · first at C4.16

Behruzبهروزbeh-ROOZPeople

A horseman of Bahram Goor's escort sent with a hundred riders on a royal errand. Vol III · first at D10.16

Behzadبهزادbeh-ZAHDObjects

Siavash’s black horse, which waits in the wild for Kay Khosrow. Vol I · first at B9.52

Siavash's black horse, which waits in the wild for Kay Khosrow. Vol II · first at C4.8

A noble of Kisra's court, named with Rizmehr, Khordad, Farayin and Bandvi. Vol III · first at D12.7

BidبیدBEEDPeople

A Div chieftain of Mazandaran, named with Pulad Ghandi as a guardian of the White Div’s country. Vol I · first at B4.4

A Div chieftain of Mazandaran, named with Pulad Ghandi. Vol II · first at C4.57

Bidadبیدادbee-DAHDPlaces

A fortress city ruled by the man-eating king Kafur. Vol I · first at B14.20

Bidarfeshبیدرفشbee-dar-FESHPeople

A Turanian warlock and champion, Gorgsar's brother and Arjasp's envoy, who kills Zarir and is slain by Esfandiyar. Vol II · first at C6.5

Bih Afridبه‌آفریدbeh-ah-fa-REEDPeople

Goshtasb's daughter, sister of Homahyi, taken captive to Turan. Vol II · first at C6.28

bijadehبیجادهbee-jah-DEHObjects

A red gemstone (garnet or amber). Vol I · first at A6.20

Bijanبیژنbee-ZHANPeople

Son of Giv and grandson of Gudarz, a young champion. Vol I · first at B10.16

Son of Giv and grandson of Gudarz, a young champion; Rostam frees him from Afrasiab's pit, and he later perishes in the snow after Kay Khosrow vanishes. Vol II · first at C1.6

A Pahlevan of Turk-Khan's line at Samarkand, whom Mahwi calls in after Yazdegard's murder and who turns on him, captures him and has him mutilated; also an Ashkanian king of Kayanian descent. Vol III · first at D6.2

Birka-e-Ardeshirبرکهٔ اردشیرbir-KA-ye ar-de-SHEERPlaces

One of the cities Ardeshir founded, known for its gardens, pools, and rose-beds. Vol III · first at D7.10

Bishutanپشوتنbee-shoo-TANPeople

Son of Goshtasb and brother of Esfandiyar, his wise companion, who keeps his army during the Seven Stages. Vol II · first at C6.2

Bistamبسطامbes-TAHMPeople

Birth name of Gostaham, Khosrow's uncle; also a town on the road to Gorgan. Vol III · first at E1.10

Bistoonبیستونbee-SOONPlaces

A great mountain in western Iran, a byword for massive strength. Vol I, II, III · first at A9.3

Bitlqunبیطقونbeet-el-GHOONPeople

Iskandar's minister, who sits on Iskandar's throne as king while Iskandar poses as one of his train. Vol II · first at D5.19

Bivarبیورbee-VARPeople

Short for Biwarasp, Zahhak's other name, 'owner of ten thousand horses.' Vol II · first at C9.4

biwarبیورbee-VARTerms

Pahlavi for ten thousand; the source of Zahhak‘s name Biwarasp, ’owner of ten thousand horses.’. Vol I · first at A4.2

Biwaraspبیوراسپbee-var-ASPPeople

Zahhak‘s other name, ’owner of ten thousand horses.’. Vol I · first at A4.2

Biwardبیوردbee-VARDPeople

Biward of Kat, an ally of the Khan of Chin. Vol I · first at B13.18

A lord who claims the throne of Iran on Yazdegard's death. Vol III · first at D9.8

Black Divدیو سیاهDEEV-e see-YAHPeople

Son of Ahriman who kills Siamak; slain by Hushang. Vol I, III · first at A1.2

bolbolبلبلbol-BOLTerms

The nightingale. Vol II · first at C2.4

bolbolaبلبلهbol-bo-LAHTerms

A long-necked wine flask that gurgles as it pours. Vol I · first at B7.1

Bortehبرتهbor-TEHPeople

An Iranian noble. Vol I, II · first at B11.5

BostبستBOSTPlaces

A city of Sistan. Vol I, II, III · first at A7.5

Bozorgmehrبزرگمهرbo-zorg-MEHRPeople

Anooshirvan's wise vizier and sage. Vol III · first at D13.20.1

BrahmanبرهمنBRAH-manPeople

A Hindu priest; in the poem a byword for an idol-worshipping sage of India. Vol I, II, III · first at B6.10

Bukharaبخاراbo-khah-RAHPlaces

A city of Transoxiana. Vol I, II, III · first at B9.23

buqبوقBOOGHObjects

A horn or trumpet. Vol I, II · first at B6.1

Burabبورابboo-RAHBPeople

A smith of Rum who takes the wandering Goshtasb as his helper until the prince's blows break his anvil. Vol II · first at C5.5

burzبرزBORZTerms

Stately height and royal splendor; the bearing of a born king. Vol I · first at B10.19

Burzmehrبرزمهرborz-MEHRPeople

An Iranian noble's name, borne by a warrior with Bahram Goor, a Mobad sent as envoy, a learned scribe of Hormizd's court, and a wise scribe under Khosrow. Vol III · first at D10.19

Burzuyalaبرزویلاbor-zoo-yah-LAHPeople

A Turanian horseman who flees when Kay Khosrow cuts down King Ila. Vol II · first at C4.10

Buzgushبزگوشboz-GOOSHPlaces

‘Goat-ears’: a land of monstrous people near Mazandaran. Vol I · first at B5.5

C

CaesarقیصرGHEY-sar (Qeysar)Terms

Title of the ruler of Rum (Byzantium/Rome). Vol I · first at A8.2

Title of the ruler of Rum (Byzantium/Rum). Vol II · first at C5.5

Title of the ruler of Rum (Byzantium). Vol III · first at D7.12.2

Canopusسهیلso-HEYLTerms

The star Soheyl, brightest after Sirius, visible from Iran only low in the southern sky and so bound up with Yemen, whence the finest agates and leathers came. Vol I, II · first at A6.6

The star Soheyl, brightest after Sirius, seen from Iran only low in the southern sky over Yemen and so a byword for southern beauty. Vol III · first at D9.2

Catholicosجاثلیقka-tho-lee-KOSPeople

The head of the Eastern Church; in Ferdowsi’s day a figure of remote priestly authority, invoked here for the power of his breath against spells. Vol I · first at B14.20

Chaghanچغانcha-GHAHNPlaces

A land beyond the Oxus, part of the Khan’s alliance. Vol I · first at B13.18

A land beyond the Oxus whose king Faghanish lends troops to Pirooz and whom the Heytalians later make their king. The text also has 'Chaghaniyan'. Vol III · first at D10.22

Chaghavanچغوانcha-ghah-VAHNPlaces

A prosperous walled city Iskandar reaches after a long desert march. Vol II · first at D5.33

ChakhچاچCHAHKHPlaces

A city of Transoxiana (Tashkent), famed for its bows. Vol I, II, III · first at A6.15

changچنگCHANGObjects

A harp. Vol I, II · first at B9.31

CharamچرمCHA-ramPlaces

The road to Turan by Kalat, which Kay Khosrow forbids Tus to take. Vol I · first at B12.2

Chehrzadچهرزادchehr-ZAHDPeople

The name by which Homahyi, Bahman's daughter and bride, was called. Vol II · first at D1.5

Chigilچگلche-GELPlaces

A Turkish people and land; Arjasp is called the king of Chigil. Vol II · first at C4.3

ChinچینCHEENPlaces

China, or the lands of Central Asia and beyond ruled from Turan. Vol I, II · first at A0.12

China, or the lands of Central Asia beyond Turan, ruled by the Khan and the Faghfoor. Vol III · first at D6.4

Chingishچنگشchen-GESHPeople

A Turanian warrior killed by Rostam. Vol I · first at B14.2

Chinvatچینودcheen-VAHTPlaces

The bridge every soul must cross after death. Vol III · first at E8.2

Chinviچینویcheen-VEEPeople

A noble chief of Chin, named with Zangwi. Vol III · first at E6.35

chowganچوگانchow-GAHNTerms

The polo stick, and the game of polo itself. Vol I · first at B9.33

D

Dabiqiدبیقیda-bee-GHEETerms

A fine cloth named for Dabiq in Egypt. Vol II · first at C4.46

Dadafridدادآفریدdahd-ah-FREEDTerms

A melody Barbad sings for Khosrow Parviz from his hiding place in the cypress. Vol III · first at E7.6

Daghuiداقویdah-GHOO-eePlaces

A hunting plain. Vol I · first at B9.2

A hunting plain near the Turanian frontier. Vol II · first at C3.43

dakhmaدخمهdakh-MEHTerms

A royal tomb or burial vault. Vol II · first at C6.3

dakhmehدخمهdakh-MEHTerms

A royal tomb or burial vault. Vol I, III · first at B12.25

Dakikiدقیقیda-ghee-GHEEPeople

The poet who began a Shahnameh before Ferdowsi and was murdered by his slave. Vol I · first at A0.10

Dalarayدلارایde-lah-RAYPeople

Mother of Roshanak, to whom Iskandar writes about the marriage. Vol II · first at D5.2

Damaghanدامغانdah-me-GHAHNPlaces

A city on the road east from Rey. Vol I, III · first at B3.2

Damavandدماوندda-mah-VANDPlaces

The great peak where Zahhak is chained in a cave. Vol I · first at A5.2

A great peak on whose heights dwelt Jahan Barzin, a noble honored by Fereydoon. Vol III · first at E7.5

Damurدمورda-MOORPeople

A Turanian champion whom Siavash defeats in the games. Vol I, II · first at B9.46

Danbar, Mai, Morghدنبر، مای، مرغdan-BAR, MAHY, MORGHPlaces

Danbar, Mai and Morgh: lands of Kabul under Mehrab. Vol I, II · first at A7.5

Lands of Hind: Danbar, Mai and Morgh; Mai is also the lord of Danbar who succeeds his brother Jamhur on the throne of Hind. 'Mai and Morgh' also names a district in Sughd (Maymurgh). Vol III · first at D10.21

Daqiqiدقیقیda-ghee-GHEEPeople

The earlier poet who appears to Ferdowsi in a dream; his thousand couplets on Goshtasb and Arjasp are set into the book. Vol II · first at C6.1

Daraداراdah-RAHPeople

King of Iran, son of Darab, whose realm falls to Iskandar. Vol II, III · first at D3.4

Darabدارابdah-RAHBPeople

Son of Homahyi, found as an infant in a coffer on the river; King of Iran and father of Dara. Vol II · first at D2.2

Darabgirdدارابگردdah-rahb-GERDPlaces

The city Darab founds and names for himself. Vol II · first at D3.1

A city of Pars granted by sealed royal decree together with Istakhr. Vol III · first at E6.30

Dara Panahداراپناهdah-RAH pa-NAHPeople

A wise officer of Bahram Chubin who carries his secret letters to the chiefs at Khosrow Parviz's court. Vol III · first at E6.23

darayدرایda-RAHYObjects

A bell, especially the Indian bell carried in processions. Vol I, II · first at A8.22

Dariدریda-REETerms

The court Persian of the Sasanian and early Islamic period. Vol I, III · first at A4.2

Darmanدرمانdar-MAHNPeople

An Iranian warrior, son of Tus. Vol II · first at C4.2

Dashmaدشمهdash-MAHPeople

An ancestor of Tukhar, king of Dehestan. Vol II · first at C4.2

Dastanدستانdas-TAHNPeople

Another name for Zal, given by the Simorgh. Vol I, II · first at A7.3

dasturدستورdas-TOORTerms

A minister or high counselor; also a senior Zoroastrian priest. Vol I, II · first at A8.6

Dehestanدهستانde-hes-TAHNPlaces

A fortress town near the Caspian where Nohzar retreats. Vol I, II · first at B1.2

dehqanدهقانdeh-GHAHNTerms

A member of the old Iranian landed gentry, keepers of the ancient histories from which the Shahnameh was drawn. Vol I, II, III · first at A0.8

Derafsh-e Kavianiدرفش کاویانیde-RAFSH-e kah-vee-yah-NEETerms

The Kaviani standard: Kaveh‘s blacksmith’s apron raised on a spear against Zahhak, later jeweled by Fereydoon and carried as the royal banner of Iran. Vol I · first at A5.5

DeyدیDEYTerms

The tenth month of the Persian year, in midwinter; also the name of certain days of the month. Vol II, III · first at C2.17

Dey, Bahman, Azarدی، بهمن، آذرDEY, bah-MAN, ah-ZARTerms

The winter months of the Persian year. Vol I, II · first at B1.6

dibaدیباdee-BAHTerms

Fine silk brocade. Vol I · first at B9.31

Diba-e-Khosroviدیبای خسرویdee-BAH-ye khos-ro-VEEObjects

One of Khosrow Parviz's famed treasures, holding the hoard of Afrasiab. Vol III · first at E7.8

Dilafruzدل‌افروزde-lah-FROOZPeople

An Iranian officer charged with ranking the warriors on the Shah's left. Vol II · first at C4.2

Dilafruz Farrukhpish, the slave girl who frees Shapur from captivity in Rum and becomes his favorite; the name is also borne by a laborer who leads Bahram Goor's men to a miser's hoard. Vol III · first at D8.1.10

Dilamدیلمdee-LAHMPlaces

A mountainous land beside Gilan, south of the Caspian, that sends troops to the Shah. Vol III · first at D6.9

Dimnaدمنهdem-NAHObjects

With Kalila, one of the two jackals of the Indian book of counsel that Barzvi brings to Iran; the book is called by both their names. Vol III · first at E6.4

dinدینDEENTerms

Faith; the true religion. A king needs honar, gohar, din and farr. Vol I · first at B10.31

dinarدینارdee-NAHRTerms

A gold coin. Vol I, II, III · first at A6.17

dirhamدرهمder-HAMTerms

A silver coin. Vol I, II, III · first at B1.1

DivدیوDEEVTerms

A monstrous being in the service of Ahriman, often of great size and sorcerous power. Tahmuras forced the Divs to teach men writing. Vol I, II · first at A1.2

A monstrous being in the service of Ahriman, often of great size and sorcerous power, and the evil that leads men astray. Vol III · first at D6.15

DukدوکDOOKPlaces

A plain and mountain where Khosrow's royal camp is pitched before battle. Vol III · first at E6.22

E

Elanjالانجe-LANJPeople

Captain of the Khan's vanguard, who led the Turks against the Heytalian border-lands. Vol III · first at E1.4

Eramارمe-RAMPlaces

A legendary garden of paradisal beauty. Vol III · first at D13.5

EsdrasعزیرEZ-drasPeople

A figure of scripture named, with Christ and Zardosht, among the teachings Nushzad learned. Vol III · first at D13.16

Esfandiyarاسفندیارes-fan-dee-YAHRPeople

Son of Goshtasb, brazen-bodied champion of Zardosht's Faith, killed by Rostam. Vol II, III · first at C6.2

eskandarاسکندرes-kan-DARTerms

A burning herb used to cure the foul breath of Darab's Roman bride. Vol II · first at D3.4

espandاسپندes-PANDTerms

Wild rue, whose seeds are burned against the evil eye. Vol I · first at B2.2

Espanoyeاسپنویes-pa-NOO-eePeople

Tazhav’s beloved, captured by Bijan. Vol I · first at B11.6

eyvanایوانey-VAHNTerms

A lofty vaulted hall, open at one end, at the heart of a palace. Vol I, II · first at A4.1

F

Faghanishفغانیشfa-ghah-NEESHPeople

Lord of Chaghaniyan, raised to rule after the Heytalians' defeat, who later comes to Anooshirvan with gifts. Vol III · first at D11.2

Faghestanفغستانfa-ghes-TAHNPeople

The princess sent from Kayd of Hind as Iskandar's bride. Vol II · first at D5.9

Faghfoorفغفورfagh-FOORTerms

Title of the emperor of Chin. Vol I, II · first at A8.2

Title of the emperor of Chin; in one line also the name Saveh gave his younger son. Vol III · first at D10.27

Falakفلکfa-LAKTerms

The turning sphere of heaven, which governs fortune. Vol I · first at B13.28

Farabفارابfah-RAHBPlaces

A land beyond Iran where Kay Khosrow's army fights three battles against Afrasiab's horsemen. Vol II · first at C4.12

A desert town beyond the Jihun, where Bahram Goor rests his army and where Mahwi is overtaken in flight. Vol III · first at D10.21

Faramarzفرامرزfa-rah-MARZPeople

Rostam’s son. Vol I · first at B9.54

Rostam's son, who avenges his father's death and later falls fighting Bahman. Vol II · first at C2.15

Faranakفرانکfa-rah-NAKPeople

Fereydoon’s mother, who hides him from Zahhak. Vol I · first at A5.3

Second of the three daughters of the old dehqan Barzin, given in marriage to Bahram Goor. Vol III · first at D10.13

Farangisفرنگیسfa-ran-GEESPeople

Afrasiab‘s daughter, Siavash’s wife and mother of Kay Khosrow. Vol I · first at B9.35

Faratفراتfo-RAHTPlaces

The Euphrates river, into which Homay casts the infant Darab. Vol II · first at D2.1

The Euphrates river, on Iran's frontier with the Arabs. Vol III · first at D7.10

Farayinفرایینfa-rah-YEENPeople

The name under which the traitor Guraz seizes the throne, a usurper later slain. Vol III · first at D12.7

Farfuriyusفرفوریوسfar-foo-ree-YOOSPeople

A Roman commander, wounded and routed by Anooshirvan's army. Vol III · first at D13.13

Farghanفرغانfar-GHAHNPeople

A Roman master builder who headed the craftsmen chosen to build for the king. Vol III · first at E7.7

Fargharفرغارfar-GHAHRPeople

A Turanian spy sent to scout Rostam’s army. Vol I · first at B14.21

Farhadفرهادfar-HAHDPeople

An Iranian noble. Vol I, II · first at B5.8

An Iranian commander of the Sasanian era, given the left wing of Anooshirvan's army. Vol III · first at D10.19

farhangفرهنگfar-HANGTerms

Learning, refinement and good breeding. Vol I · first at A9.1

Fariborzفریبرزfa-ree-BORZPeople

Son of Kay Kavus, uncle of Kay Khosrow. Vol I · first at B5.7

Son of Kavus, uncle of Kay Khosrow; he perishes in the snow after Kay Khosrow vanishes. Vol II · first at C2.2

Fariyabفاریابfah-ree-YAHBPlaces

A district named among the boundary lands between Iran and Turan. Vol II · first at C3.20

Farqinفارقینfar-QEENPlaces

A city in Rum that seeks quarter from the Shah along with Mandia. Vol III · first at D12.5

farrفرFARRTerms

The divine glory that rests on a rightful king or hero and departs from him when he turns to pride or injustice. Vol I, II, III · first at A0.1

Farrokhzadفرخزادfar-rokh-ZAHDPeople

The name Goshtasb goes by in Rum while hiding his identity. Vol II · first at C5.13

Name of several men of the last Sasanian reigns: a noble at Hormizd's and Khosrow Parviz's courts, and Farrokhzad son of Ormozd, Yazdegard's loyal commander. For the king, see Farrokhzad (of Jahram). Vol III · first at E6.11

Farrokhzad (of Jahram)فرخزادfar-rokh-ZAHDPeople

Brought from Jahram to take the throne; a month later a slave poisons his wine. Vol III · first at E9.6

farsangفرسنگfar-SANGTerms

A measure of distance, roughly the ground covered in an hour’s march (about six kilometers). Vol I · first at A6.19

A measure of distance, roughly the ground covered in an hour's march (about six kilometers). Vol II, III · first at C1.5

Farshidvardفرشیدوردfar-sheed-VARDPeople

Son of Viseh and brother of Piran. Vol I, II · first at B9.55

A rich miser whom Bahram Goor hears of on his travels, hoarding flocks and gold while living like a pauper. Vol III · first at D10.15

Farshidvard (son of Goshtasb)فرشیدوردfar-sheed-VARDPeople

Son of Goshtasb and brother of Esfandiyar, mortally wounded by Kuhram in the war with Arjasp. Vol II · first at C6.21

Farsiفارسیfar-SEETerms

The Persian tongue, one of the scripts the Divs teach Tahmuras. Vol I · first at A3.1

The Persian tongue, named beside Pahlavi as a language in which a message may be heard. Vol III · first at E8.1

Fartusفرطوسfar-TOOSPeople

The lord of Chaghan, an ally of the Khan of Chin. Vol I · first at B13.18

Farvardinفروردینfar-var-DEENTerms

The first month of the Persian year, beginning at the spring equinox. Vol I, II, III · first at A4.1

Faryanفریانfar-YAHNPeople

A king in Kaydafa's realm whose daughter is married to Qaydrush; named among the great kings who have passed away. Vol II · first at D5.19

Faskunفاسقونfas-KOONPlaces

A forest in Rum, lair of a monstrous wolf. Vol II · first at C5.9

FatimaفاطمهFAH-te-mehPeople

The Prophet’s daughter, wife of Ali. Vol I · first at A0.7

Faylaqusفیلقوسfay-la-GHOOSPeople

King of Rum, whose daughter Darab weds; Iskandar is called his son. Vol II · first at D3.3

FazlفضلFAZLPeople

Fazl, son of Ahmad, the minister praised by the poet as the state's support. Vol II · first at C4.1

Ferdowsiفردوسیfer-dow-SEEPeople

Abul-Qasim Ferdowsi of Tus (c. 940–1020), author of the Shahnameh. Vol I, II, III

Fereydoonفریدونfe-rey-DOONPeople

The king who overthrew Zahhak and divided the world among his sons Salm, Tur and Iraj. Vol I, II, III · first at A5.2

Firuzفیروزfee-ROOZPeople

A king of Kurukhan's line and Kay Qobad's seed, ruler of Garcha, in Kay Khosrow's host. Vol II · first at C4.2

FoorفورFOORPeople

King of Hind, of an old royal line, who defies Iskandar. Vol II, III · first at D4.8

Foroodفرودfo-ROODPeople

Son of Siavash and Jarireh, Kay Khosrow’s half-brother, killed at Kalat. Vol I · first at B9.45

Son of Siavash and Jarireh, Kay Khosrow's half-brother, killed at Kalat. Vol II · first at C3.12

One of the four sons Shirin bore to Khosrow Parviz. Vol III · first at E8.6

Foruhilفروهلfo-roo-HEELPeople

An Iranian warrior and famed archer who fights Zangula. Vol II · first at C3.6

G

Gahanگهانga-HAHNPlaces

Gahar’s land, allied with the Khan. Vol I · first at B13.18

Gaharگهارga-HAHRPeople

Gahar of Gahan, an ally of the Khan of Chin. Vol I · first at B13.18

Galinushگلینوشga-lee-NOOSHPeople

The keeper who guards the deposed Khosrow Parviz in Tisfoon. Vol III · first at E7.11

Gang-Beheshtگنگ بهشتgang-be-HESHTPlaces

Afrasiab's stronghold, where he gathers his army and to which he flees; Kay Khosrow takes it and rests there a year. Vol II · first at C4.13

Gangdezhگنگ‌دژgang-DEZHPlaces

The paradise-like city Siavash builds in Turan. Vol I · first at B9.39

The paradise-like city Siavash builds in Turan; later Afrasiab's refuge, taken by Kay Khosrow. Vol II · first at C4.19

The city Siavash built with toil, recalled among the vanished works of the great. Vol III · first at E8.2

Gang Dezh-Hokhtکنگ دژهوختgang dezh-HOOKHTPlaces

Zahhak’s capital (Jerusalem). Vol I · first at A5.6

Garchaگرچهgar-CHEHPeople

A warrior of Sagzar in the Khan’s army. Vol I · first at B13.18

A land ruled by King Firuz, whose charge Kay Khosrow gives to Lohrasp. Vol II · first at C3.3

Garshaspگرشاسپgar-SHAHSPPeople

(1) An ancestral hero of Sahm‘s line, famed in the older legend as a dragon-slayer. (2) Son of Zav, the last king of the Pishdadian line. Vol I · first at A7.1

An Iranian noble of Jamshid's line at Kay Khosrow's court. Vol II · first at C1.2

An Iranian champion called the Lion, who fights for Shapur against Rum. Vol III · first at D7.12.2

Garsivazگرسیوزgar-see-VAZPeople

Afrasiab‘s brother, whose slander brings about Siavash’s death. Vol I · first at B1.2

Afrasiab's brother, whose slander brings about Siavash's death; Kay Khosrow puts him to death beside Afrasiab. Vol II, III · first at C2.7

Garsiyunگرسیونgar-see-YOONPeople

A commander of Mahwi who leads his scouts toward Bukhara against Bijan. Vol III · first at E10.12

Gashasbگشسپga-SHASBPeople

A champion in Manuchehr’s army, companion of Gharan in the war against Salm and Tur; not the same man as Garshasp. Vol I · first at A6.15

Gashaspگشسپga-SHASPPeople

A name borne by several Iranian nobles (Izad, Ayin, Kanda, Hamdan, Ashtad Gashasp); alone, the father of Gharan, a learned scribe, and a royal treasurer. Vol III · first at D9.8

GavگوGAHVPeople

King of Hind, son of Jamhur, whose war with his brother Talkhand gives rise to chess. Vol III · first at E2.3

gavdamگاودمgahv-DOMObjects

A long war trumpet (‘ox-tail’). Vol I · first at B3.2

A long war trumpet ('ox-tail'). Vol II · first at C2.27

Gazhdahamگژدهمgazh-da-HAMPeople

Keeper of the White Fortress, father of Gordafarid. Vol I, II · first at B1.6

gaz-parastگزپرستgaz-pa-RASTTerms

'Tamarisk-worshipper': an archer who shoots the tamarisk shaft. Vol II · first at C8.25

ghaliyaغالیهghah-lee-YEHTerms

A dark perfume of musk and ambergris, used to trace patterns on the skin. Vol I · first at A8.3

Ghanoojقنوجgha-NOOJPlaces

Kanauj, a city of northern India. Vol I, II, III · first at A0.12

Gharanقارنghah-RENPeople

Son of Kaveh, a great commander under Manuchehr and Nohzar. Vol I · first at A6.15

Son of Kaveh, a great commander under Manuchehr and Nohzar; his line is still named under Kay Khosrow. Mount Gharan is also a byword for height. Vol II · first at C3.26

(1) Son of Kaveh, a great commander under Manuchehr and Nohzar. (2) An Iranian noble, son of Gashasp, who rides with Bahram Goor against the Khan of Chin. Vol III · first at D9.8

Gharchaganغرچگانghar-cha-GAHNPlaces

A frontier district near Bost, named in the border settlement between Iran and Turan. Vol II · first at C3.20

Gharchiغرچهghar-CHEEPlaces

A people or region whose Mobadan bring barsom among the king's tributaries. Vol III · first at D10.22

Ghassanغسانghas-SAHNPlaces

An Arab kingdom whose king Tair raids Iran and is defeated by Shapur. Vol III · first at D8.1.2

Ghatfarغاتفرghat-FARPeople

Ruler of the Heytalians, defeated by the Khan. Vol III · first at E1.4

Ghazninغزنینghaz-NEENPlaces

Ghazni, a city in present-day Afghanistan. Vol I, II, III · first at B1.8

Gholaقلاgho-LAHPlaces

A mountain where Piran’s shepherds pasture. Vol I · first at B9.58

gholamغلامgho-LAHMTerms

A young page or servant. Vol I · first at B6.9

GhulغولGHOOLPeople

A sorceress who can turn deserts into seas, one of Esfandiyar's trials. Vol II · first at C7.5

Ghulghulistanغلغلستانghool-ghoo-lees-TAHNPlaces

'Land of uproar,' a mocking name for Zabulistan. Vol II · first at C8.19

GhurغورGHOORPlaces

A mountain region of present-day Afghanistan. Vol I · first at B6.7

GhuzغزGHOOZPlaces

A Turkic people allied to Turan. Vol II · first at C3.18

Gilanگیلانgee-LAHNPlaces

The province on the south-western Caspian shore. Vol I, II, III · first at A6.26

Giramiگرامیgee-rah-MEEPeople

Son of Jamasp, who seizes the fallen banner in battle with the Turks. Vol II · first at C6.10

GivگیوGEEVPeople

Son of Gudarz, who searches seven years for Kay Khosrow and brings him to Iran. Vol I · first at B4.1

Son of Gudarz, who searches seven years for Kay Khosrow and brings him to Iran; he perishes in the snow after Kay Khosrow vanishes. Vol II, III · first at C1.2

Givaگیواgee-VAHPeople

The king of Khavar, a warrior in Kay Khosrow's host. Vol II · first at C4.2

Givganگیوگانgeev-GAHNPlaces

The family of Guraza. Vol I, II · first at B8.16

goharگوهرgo-HARTerms

Essence and noble lineage; literally ‘jewel.’. Vol I · first at B10.11

Golbuy Suriگلبوی سوریgol-BOOY soo-REEPeople

An Iranian warrior named among the loyal chiefs who fight on with gorzes. Vol III · first at E10.2

Golestanگلستانgo-les-TAHNPlaces

A garden palace where Zal and Rudabeh hold their feast. Vol I · first at A9.1

Golgunگلگونgol-GOONObjects

A bay horse: Gudarz's steed, and the name of Lohrasp's horse. Vol II · first at C2.11

Golnarگلنارgol-NAHRPeople

Ardavan's favorite slave, keeper of his treasure, who loves Ardeshir. Vol III · first at D6.5

Golshahrگلشهرgol-SHAHRPeople

Piran’s wife, mother of Jarireh. Vol I · first at B9.34

Gombadanگنبدانgom-ba-DAHNPlaces

The fortress where Goshtasb has Esfandiyar held in chains. Vol II · first at C6.24

A fort toward Kharmana, chosen as a stronghold for the royal treasure. Vol III · first at E10.7

goorabگورابgoo-RAHBObjects

The domed grave-tower Zal builds over Sahm. Vol I · first at B1.9

Goosh-bistarگوش‌بسترgoosh-bes-TARPeople

'Ear-bedded': a hairy wild man with elephant ears whom Iskandar meets by the sea. Vol II · first at D5.34

gopalگوپالgoo-PAHLObjects

A heavy club or mace. Vol I, II · first at B8.6

Gordafaridگردآفریدgord-ah-fa-REEDPeople

Gazhdaham’s daughter, a warrior who fights Sohrab. Vol I · first at B8.9

Gordgirگردگیرgord-GEERPeople

Afrasiab's fifth son, leader of the Taraz, Ghuzz and Khallokh riders. Vol II · first at C4.3

Gordviگردویgord-VEEPeople

A commander of Goshtasb's left wing against Arjasp. Vol II · first at C6.32

Brother of Bahram Chubin, who stays loyal to Khosrow Parviz and fights at his side against Bahram. Vol III · first at E6.4

Gorganگرگانgor-GAHNPlaces

A province south-east of the Caspian. Vol I, II, III · first at B1.2

Gorgasaranگرگسارانgor-ga-sah-RAHNPlaces

‘Wolf-heads’ (also read Kargasaran, ‘vulture-heads’): a monstrous people Sahm fights. Vol I · first at A7.6

'Wolf-heads' (also read Kargasaran, 'vulture-heads'): a monstrous people Sahm fought; Bijan is found chained in a pit in their land. Vol II · first at C2.13

Gorginگرگینgor-GEENPeople

Son of Milad, an Iranian champion. Vol I, II, III · first at B4.1

Gorgsarگرگسارgorg-SARPeople

An aged Turk, Arjasp's commander, captured by Esfandiyar and made his guide to Turan. Vol II · first at C6.7

Gorugardگروگردgo-roo-GARDPlaces

A plain in Turan where Tazhav’s herds graze. Vol I · first at B12.16

gorzگرزGORZObjects

The ox-headed heavy mace of the Iranian champion. Vol I, II, III · first at A3.1

Goshasbگشسپgo-SHASBPeople

An Iranian commander who guards the baggage in battle. Vol III · first at D13.11

Goshnaspگشسپgosh-NASPPeople

Father of Bahram Chubin. Vol III · first at E5.5

Goshtasbگشتاسپgo-SHTASPPeople

Son of Lohrasp, king of Iran and father of Esfandiyar. Vol II, III · first at C5.2

Gostahamگستهمgos-ta-HAMPeople

An Iranian champion, son of Nohzar (or of Gazhdaham). Vol II · first at C1.2

(1) Brother of Bandvi and maternal uncle of Khosrow Parviz, who helps depose Hormizd, later rebels and is killed at Khosrow's command. (2) Bahram Goor's minister and chief Pahlevan. Vol III · first at D9.8

Gostaham (son of Gazhdaham)گستهمgos-ta-HAMPeople

Son of Gazhdaham at the White Fortress; young, but wise and brave. Vol I · first at B8.8

Gostaham (son of Nohzar)گستهمgos-ta-HAMPeople

An Iranian champion, son of Nohzar and brother of Tus. Vol I · first at B1.5

Gudarzگودرزgoo-DARZPeople

Son of Keshvad, head of the great house of Gudarz; father of Giv. The text also has ‘Gudarzian’. Vol I · first at B4.1

Son of Keshvad, head of the great house of Gudarz; father of Giv. He slays Piran in the battle of the Twelve Rukhs. Vol II · first at C1.2

(1) Son of Keshvad, the old Iranian champion, named among the heroes of the past. (2) One of the Ashkanian kings. Vol III · first at D6.2

Gulzaryunگلزریونgol-za-ree-YOONPlaces

A river on the Turanian frontier. Vol I, II, III · first at B10.11

Gund-e-Shapurگندی‌شاپورgun-de-shah-POORPlaces

The city Ardeshir builds on a tract of bramble and thorn, where Anooshirvan later keeps his son Nushzad in prison. Vol III · first at D7.3

gurگورGOORTerms

The wild ass or onager, the favorite quarry of the hunt. Vol II · first at C1.3

GurگورGOORPlaces

The city Ardeshir founds, with gardens, halls and water channels. Vol III · first at D6.9

Guranگورانgoo-RAHNPeople

A king who marches in Kay Khosrow's host. Vol II · first at C4.2

Gurazگرازgo-RAHZPeople

Warden of the Rum frontier who betrays Khosrow Parviz and later seizes the throne as Farayin. Vol III · first at E7.9

Gurazaگرازهgo-rah-ZEHPeople

An Iranian champion of the house of Givgan. Vol I, II · first at B5.10

Gurazmگرزمgoo-RAZMPeople

A noble at Goshtasb's court whose slander brings about Esfandiyar's imprisonment. Vol II · first at C6.10

Gurdiyehگردیهgoor-dee-YEHPeople

Bahram Chubin's wise and brave sister. Vol III · first at E5.24

Gur-e-Kharگورخرgoor-e-KHARTerms

The wild ass of the Iranian plains, favorite quarry of royal hunts. Vol I, II, III · first at A2.2

Gurganjگرگانجgoor-GANJPlaces

A city of Khwarazm where Shideh flees after defeat. Vol II · first at C3.18

Gurvi Zerehگروی زرهga-ROO-ee ze-REHPeople

The Turanian who beheads Siavash. Vol I · first at B9.46

The Turanian who beheads Siavash. The text also has 'Gurvi'. Vol II · first at C3.28

Gurzbanگرزبانgorz-BAHNPeople

Father of the Iranian warrior Pirooz. Vol III · first at D9.8

Gushaspگشسپgoo-SHASPPeople

The name Bahram Goor gives himself when visiting Mahiyar incognito. Vol III · first at D10.14

Guzgananگوزگانانgooz-gah-NAHNPlaces

A region named among the lands claimed for Iran near Balkh. Vol II · first at C3.20

H

Habashحبشha-BASHPlaces

Abyssinia, a land of black-skinned warriors that Iskandar invades. Vol II · first at D5.26

Haftvadهفتوادhaft-VAHDPeople

A poor man whose daughter's lucky worm brings him wealth and power until Ardeshir destroys him. Vol III · first at D6.12

Hajirهجیرha-JEERPeople

Son of Gudarz, captured by Sohrab. He names the Iranian chiefs to Sohrab but hides Rostam. Vol I, II · first at B8.8

Halabحلبha-LABPlaces

Aleppo, a city on the frontier of Rum. Vol II, III · first at C5.17

Hamadanهمدانha-ma-DAHNPlaces

A city of western Iran. Vol III · first at E5.27

Hamavanهماونha-mah-VANPlaces

The mountain where the Iranian army is besieged by the Khan’s forces. Vol I · first at B13.11

The mountain where the Iranian army is besieged by the Khan's forces. Vol II · first at C4.59

Hamavaranهاماورانhah-mah-vah-RAHNPlaces

A land (Yemen or Himyar) whose king imprisons Kavus. Vol I, II, III · first at B5.11

Hamavaran, king ofشاه هاماورانhah-mah-vah-RAHNPeople

Father of Sudabeh; he imprisons Kavus. Vol I, II · first at B6.1

Hamdan Gashaspهمدان گشسپham-DAHN ga-SHASPPeople

An Iranian commander, companion of Bahram Chubin. Vol III · first at E5.11

hāmunهامونhah-MOONTerms

Open plain or desert. Vol I · first at B11.5

Haramحرمha-RAMPlaces

The sanctuary of Mecca, the House of God (Baitul Haram) raised by Ismail. Vol II · first at D5.16

Harisحارثhah-REESPeople

An Arab chief, father of Kais, who meets Khosrow on his flight. Vol III · first at E6.13

Harumهرومha-ROOMPlaces

A city ruled by women warriors, visited by Iskandar. Vol II · first at D5.28

Harutهاروتhah-ROOTPeople

A fallen angel famed for his magic, imprisoned in a well at Babylon. Vol II · first at C2.1

Hashimiهاشمیhah-shee-MEEPeople

The companion the poet calls on to bring wine. Vol III · first at D8.1.12

Hazaranهزارانha-zah-RAHNPeople

Father of Namkhast, the warrior-mage in Arjasp's army. Vol II · first at C6.11

Heratهراتhe-RAHTPlaces

A city of Khorasan. Vol I, III · first at B6.8

herbadهیربدheer-BADTerms

A Zoroastrian priest who tends the sacred fire. Vol II · first at C4.56

Heytalهیتالhey-TAHLPlaces

The land of the Heytalians (Hephthalites) beyond the Oxus, whose king Khoshnavaz slays Pirooz. Vol III · first at D11.2

Hijazحجازhe-JAHZPlaces

The western coast of Arabia, around Mecca, which Iskandar frees from oppression. Vol II · first at D5.14

The western region of Arabia, from which, in the prophetic dream, a sun rises and an army of faith will come. Vol III · first at E3.3

Hindهند / هندوستانHEND, hen-doo-STAHNPlaces

India. Vol I, II, III · first at A0.12

Hindustanهندوستانhen-doo-STAHNPlaces

India. Vol II, III · first at C4.1

Hirbadهیربدheer-BADPeople

Keeper of Kavus‘s women’s quarters, who leads Siavash to Sudabeh. Vol I · first at B9.7

hirbadهیربدheer-BADTerms

A Zoroastrian priest who tends the sacred fire. Vol III · first at D10.25

Hirmundهیرمندheer-MANDPlaces

The Helmand river of Sistan. Vol I, II · first at B1.9

Hishviهیشویheesh-VEEPeople

The wise old toll-keeper of the sea crossing who ferries Goshtasb to Rum and befriends him. Vol II · first at C5.5

hiyunهیونhee-YOONTerms

A large, swift camel used by messengers. Vol I, II · first at A6.22

hodajهودجhow-DAJObjects

A camel litter for women. Vol I · first at A8.22

HohmهومHOHMPeople

A pious hermit living in a mountain cave, who captures the fugitive Afrasiab. Vol II · first at C4.41

Holvanحلوانhol-VAHNPlaces

The Arab name of the city Aran, with its hospital, built by the Shah. Vol III · first at D12.5

homaهماho-MAHTerms

A bird of good fortune: anyone its shadow falls on is destined to be king. Vol I, II, III · first at A6.23

Homahyiهمایho-mah-YEEPeople

Name of Goshtasb's daughter, Esfandiyar's sister; also Bahman's daughter Chehrzad, who becomes queen and the mother of Darab. Vol II · first at C6.14

Homayunهمایونho-mah-YOONPeople

An Iranian warrior through whom Esfandiyar sends the captive Gorgsar to the Shah. Vol II · first at C6.32

honarهنرho-NARTerms

Skill, excellence and noble accomplishment. Vol I · first at A7.3

Hormizdهرمزدhor-MEZDPeople

Son of Goshtasb, who fights in the war against Arjasp. Vol II · first at C6.12

Name of several men. Four Sasanian kings have their own entries; also an Ashkanian king and several nobles. Vol III · first at D6.2

Hormizd (son of Anooshirvan)هرمزدhor-MEZDPeople

Son of Anooshirvan by the Khan of Chin's daughter and father of Khosrow Parviz; blinded and killed after Bahram Chubin's revolt. Vol III · first at E1.9

Hormizd (son of Narsi)هرمزدhor-MEZDPeople

Sasanian king who keeps the world at peace nine years and dies before his son Shapur Zul-Aktaf is born. Vol III · first at D7.18

Hormizd (son of Shapur)هرمزدhor-MEZDPeople

Shapur's son and successor, under whom wolf and lamb drink from one cistern; he leaves the throne to his son Bahram. Vol III · first at D7.12

Hormizd (son of Yazdegard)هرمزدhor-MEZDPeople

Chosen by his father over his elder brother Pirooz, who wins the throne from him in war and then spares him. Vol III · first at D11.1

Hormoz (planet)هرمزhor-MOZTerms

The planet Jupiter. Vol I · first at B7.3

Houmanهومانhoo-MAHNPeople

Piran’s brother, a leading Turanian champion. Vol I · first at B8.7

Piran's brother, a leading Turanian champion, slain by Bijan. Vol II · first at C2.26

houriحوریhoo-REETerms

A maiden of paradise. Vol I, III · first at A8.5

Humayiهمایhoo-mah-YEEPeople

A learned mobad the Iranians send to the Khan of Chin with their offer of submission. Vol III · first at D10.19

HurهورHOORPeople

A name or epithet joined to Behruz in the line where the Shah's letter is written. Vol III · first at D10.16

Hushangهوشنگhoo-SHANGPeople

Grandson of Kioumars; the king who discovered fire and founded Sadeh. Vol I, II, III · first at A1.3

Hushdivهوش‌دیوhoosh-DEEVPeople

A Turkish lord whom Arjasp sets to guard the rear and cut down deserters. Vol II · first at C6.8

Hushyarهشیارhoosh-YAHRPeople

An Iranian astrologer who, with the Indian Soroush, reads the stars at Bahram Goor's birth. Vol III · first at D9.2

I

Iblisابلیسeb-LEESTerms

The Devil, who tempts Zahhak in disguise and kisses his shoulders, raising the serpents. Vol I, II · first at A4.2

Ibrahimابراهیمeb-rah-HEEMPeople

Abraham, father of Ismail. Vol II · first at D5.16

IlaایلاEE-lahPeople

A Turanian king of Afrasiab's line, the world-king's grandson, whom Kay Khosrow cuts in two. Vol II · first at C4.3

Ilyasالیاسel-YAHSPeople

Son of Mehras, ruler of Khazar, defeated by Goshtasb for Caesar. Vol II · first at C5.14

Indusدرهٔ سندIN-dusPlaces

The Indus valley, the land of the river (compare Sind, the river itself). Vol I · first at B13.27

Irajایرجee-RAJPeople

Fereydoon’s youngest son, heir to Iran, murdered by his brothers. Vol I · first at A6.6

Fereydoon's youngest son, heir to Iran, murdered by his brothers. Vol II, III · first at C3.4

Iramارمe-RAMPlaces

A legendary garden of paradisal beauty. Vol I · first at A0.12

Iranایرانee-RAHNPlaces

The land of the Iranians, Iraj’s inheritance. Vol I · first at A0.12

The land of the Iranians, Iraj's inheritance. Vol II, III · first at C1.4

Iran-khodāyایران‌خدایee-RAHN kho-DAHYTerms

‘Lord of Iran,’ Iraj’s title after Fereydoon divides the world. Vol I · first at A6.7

Irmanارمانer-MAHNPlaces

A frontier land between Iran and Turan, plagued by wild boars. Vol II · first at C2.2

Isfahanاصفهانes-fa-HAHNPlaces

A city of central Iran. Vol I, II, III · first at B1.5

Ishkapanاشکپانish-ka-PAHNPlaces

A land whose crowned lord, with Biward, claims the throne of Iran on Yazdegard's death. Vol III · first at D9.8

Iskandarاسکندرes-kan-DARPeople

Alexander, the king of Rum who defeats Dara and conquers the world. Vol II, III · first at D3.4

Iskandariyaاسکندریهes-kan-da-REE-yahPlaces

Alexandria, the city Iskandar built, where he is laid to rest. Vol II · first at D5.37

Ismailاسماعیلes-mah-EELPeople

Ishmael, son of Ibrahim, who raised the holy House at Mecca. Vol II · first at D5.16

Ispuruzاسپروزes-pe-ROOZPlaces

The mountain on the border of Mazandaran where Kavus camps. Vol I, II · first at B4.3

Israfilاسرافیلes-rah-FEELPeople

The angel who will sound the trumpet at the end of time; Iskandar sees him on a mountaintop, karnay in hand. Vol II · first at D5.29

Istakhrاستخرes-TAKHRPlaces

The ancient royal seat in Pars (near Persepolis). Vol I, II, III · first at B3.5

Izadایزدee-ZADTerms

God; a name for the divine. Vol II · first at C2.8

(1) An aged, revered vizier of Anooshirvan, imprisoned and killed by Hormizd. (2) A Pahlevan, Bahram Chubin's close companion in his wars and revolt. Vol III · first at E5.2

J

Jadustanجادوستانjah-doo-STAHNPlaces

A land of sorcerers with its waters, passed on the road to Hindustan. Vol III · first at D10.26

Jahanجهنja-HAHNPeople

A son of Afrasiab. Vol I, II · first at B9.33

Jahan Barzinجهان برزینja-HAHN bar-ZEENPeople

A noble of Damavand, favored by Fereydoon, who made that king a jeweled throne. Vol III · first at E7.5

Jahramجهرمjah-ROMPlaces

A town in Pars where Dara kept his treasure. Vol II · first at D4.5

A town in Pars, seat of Mehrak and home of Barbad and Farrokhzad. Vol III · first at D6.8

Jamaspجاماسپjah-MAHSPPeople

Goshtasb's wise counselor and chief Mobad. Vol II · first at C6.6

(1) Goshtasb's wise counselor and chief Mobad. (2) Qobad's younger brother, set on the throne by the nobles when they depose Qobad; Qobad pardons him on his return. Vol III · first at D12.3

Jamhurجمهورjam-HOORPeople

A king of Hind, father of Gav, after whose death Mai takes his throne. Vol III · first at E2.3

Jamshidجمشیدjam-SHEEDPeople

The fourth king, whose glory ended in pride; he was sawn in two by Zahhak. Vol I, II, III · first at A4.1

Jandalجندلjan-DALPeople

Fereydoon’s envoy who finds the three princesses of Yemen. Vol I · first at A6.2

A kingdom of Hind whose king attends Shangul's court. Vol III · first at D10.37

Janfuruzجانفروزjahn-foo-ROOZPeople

An officer of Bahram Chubin, left in command of the army while Bahram rides out against Khosrow. Vol III · first at E6.25

JangجنگJANGPlaces

A desert. Vol I · first at B12.3

Janusiyarجانوسیارjah-noo-see-YAHRPeople

One of Dara's two counselors, who stabs his king to death. Vol II · first at D4.8

Jaranjashجرنجاسja-ran-JASHPeople

A Turanian warrior who marches with Afrasiab's son Gordgir. Vol II · first at C4.3

jarasجرسja-RASObjects

A caravan or watch bell. Vol I · first at B12.12

Jarirehجریرهja-ree-REHPeople

Piran’s daughter, first wife of Siavash and mother of Forood. Vol I · first at B9.34

Jathaliqجاثلیقja-thah-LEEQPeople

A shrewd defender who mounts ballistae and catapults on the walls of Afrasiab's besieged stronghold. Vol II · first at C4.17

javanmardiجوانمردیja-vahn-mar-DEETerms

Chivalry: generosity, loyalty and magnanimity. Vol I · first at B8.20

Javanuyجوانویjah-vah-NOOYPeople

A learned scribe sent by the Iranian nobles as their envoy to Monzer, later Bahram Goor's scribe and keeper of accounts. Vol III · first at D9.10

JazجزJAHZPlaces

A reedy hunting country famed for its furs, near Barkooh. Vol III · first at D8.1.4

Jihunجیحونjey-HOONPlaces

The Oxus (Amu Darya), the border between Iran and Turan. Vol I, II, III · first at A6.19

Jogmanجگمنjog-MAHNPlaces

A land whose king rides with Kabul's and Sind's to escort Raja Shangul. Vol III · first at D10.37

jowshanجوشنjow-SHANObjects

A coat of plate or lamellar armor. Vol I, II, III · first at A1.2

JuddaجدهJOD-dahPlaces

Jeddah, the Red Sea port near Mecca. Vol II · first at D5.17

Juyaجویاjoo-YAHPeople

A boastful champion of Mazandaran, killed by Rostam. Vol I · first at B5.10

K

kababکبابka-BAHBTerms

Meat grilled over a fire. Vol II, III · first at C3.44

Kabruyکبرویkab-ROOYPeople

A noble at Bahram Goor's court who drinks deep, falls asleep drunk, and has his eyes pecked out by a crow. Vol III · first at D10.6

Kabudaکبودهka-boo-DEHPeople

Tazhav’s scout, captured by Bahram. Vol I · first at B12.16

Kabulکابلkah-BOLPlaces

Mehrab’s kingdom; Kabulistan. Vol I · first at A6.20

Mehrab's kingdom; Kabulistan. Its later king plots with Shaghad to kill Rostam. Vol II · first at C3.3

A city and land in the east of the realm, famed for its blades. Vol III · first at D6.1

Kachar Bashiکچارباشیka-CHAR bah-SHEEPlaces

A place in Turan on Siavash’s route. Vol I · first at B9.31

The seat of the Khan of Chin in Turan, from which the Khan's legions ride against Ghatfar and Bijan rides out toward Bukhara. Vol III · first at E1.4

Kadisiyaقادسیkah-dee-SEE-yahPlaces

Qadisiyya, in Arabia, where the conqueror's army goes after the House of God. Vol II · first at D5.16

Qadisiyya, on the Arab frontier, where Yazdegard's commander Rostam falls fighting the Arabs under Sa'ad Wakkas. Vol III · first at D8.1.2

KafقافGHAHFPlaces

The mountain at the edge of the world. Vol I, II, III · first at B6.1

kaf and nunکاف و نونKAHF, NOONTerms

The Arabic letters of 'kun', God's creating word 'Be'. Vol II · first at D4.10

Kafurکافورkah-FOORPeople

A man-eating king of Bidad, killed by Rostam. Vol I · first at B14.20

Kahilaکهیلاka-hee-LAHPeople

A huge Turanian warrior in Shideh's force, killed by Manuchehr. Vol II · first at C4.3

KaisقیسKAYSPeople

An Arab cameleer, son of Haris, who aids Khosrow on his flight to Rum. Vol III · first at E6.13

Kakouyکاکویkah-KOOYPeople

Zahhak’s grandson, killed by Manuchehr. Vol I · first at A6.24

Kakulaکاکلهka-koo-LAHPeople

A Turanian chief who stands with Baghzadila at Afrasiab's side. Vol II · first at C4.14

Kalahurکلاهورka-lah-HOORPeople

A Div champion of Mazandaran. Vol I · first at B5.9

Kalatکلاتka-LAHTPlaces

Forood’s mountain fortress. Vol I · first at B12.2

A craggy frontier stronghold, named with Rada in the Shah's letter to the frontier lords. Vol III · first at E10.7

Kalilaکلیلهka-LEE-lahObjects

The Indian book of wisdom (Kalila and Dimna) that Barzvi brings from Hind. Vol III · first at E2.4

Kaliniyusکالینیوسka-lee-nee-YOOSPlaces

A walled Roman city taken by Anooshirvan. Vol III · first at D13.13

Kalusقالوسkah-LOOSPeople

A wise nobleman of Rum whom the Caesar sends to Lohrasp to demand tribute. Vol II · first at C5.16

kamandکمندka-MANDObjects

The coiled noose-rope thrown in battle to snare a foe. Vol I, II, III · first at A5.9

kamilکمیلka-MEELObjects

Weasel fur. Vol I, II · first at B10.14

Kamusکاموسkah-MOOSPeople

Kamus of Kashan, the mightiest of the Khan’s allies, captured and killed by Rostam. Vol I · first at B12.26

Kamus of Kashan, the mightiest of the Khan's allies, captured and killed by Rostam. Vol II · first at C4.57

Kanabadکنابدka-nah-BAHDPlaces

The mountain where Piran's Turanian army takes its stand against Gudarz, facing Raibad. Vol II · first at C3.5

kanarangکنارنگka-nah-RANGTerms

A frontier lord of high rank; the title of a great border commander. Vol I · first at B1.12

Kanda Gashaspکنداگشسپkan-DAH ga-SHASPPeople

An Iranian warrior of Bahram Chubin's army, servant of the Azargashasp fire. Vol III · first at E5.6

Kandaharقندهارghan-da-HAHRPlaces

A city of present-day Afghanistan. Vol I, II · first at A8.10

kargadanکرگدنkar-ga-DANTerms

The rhinoceros, or the fabulous horned beast of India and Africa modeled on it. Vol II · first at D5.26

Karimanکریمانka-ree-MAHNPeople

Father of Nariman, an ancestor of Rostam's line. Vol II · first at C8.15

KarkhکرخKARKHPlaces

A place whose picked arbalesters fight for Kay Khosrow. Vol II · first at C4.2

A quarter of Baghdad on the Tigris. Vol III · first at E10.4

karnayکرنایkar-NAHYObjects

A long brass war horn. Vol I, II, III · first at A5.9

Karsanکارسانkar-SAHNPlaces

A fortress on the Roman border, whose Christian wardens bar their gates to Khosrow on his flight to Rum. Vol III · first at E6.13

Karziکرزیkar-ZEEPlaces

The home district of a merchant who serves wine to Khosrow on his flight to Rum. Vol III · first at E6.13

Kasanکاسانkah-SAHNPlaces

A land on the Turkish border which, with Chakh, Anooshirvan names as the limit of his domain. Vol III · first at E1.5

Kasa Rudکاسه رودkah-SEH ROODPlaces

A river where Tus’s army camps in Turan. Vol I · first at B11.6

Kasa-rudکاسه‌رودkah-SEH-roodPlaces

A river where the Iranians fought the Turanians to avenge Siavash. Vol II · first at C3.26

Kashaf Riverکشف رودka-SHAFPlaces

The river where Sahm killed a dragon. Vol I · first at A8.14

Kashanکشانیka-SHAHNPlaces

Kamus‘s land. The text also has ’Kashanian‘ and ’Kashani’. Vol I · first at B13.18

Kamus's land. The text also has 'Kashanian' and 'Kashani'. Vol II · first at C4.3

A land beyond the Oxus near Sughd, whose men stand with the Khan's forces. Vol III · first at E1.4

kashkکشکKASHKTerms

Dried whey curds, a poor man's food. Vol III · first at E6.36

Kashmihanکشمیهنkash-mee-HAHNPlaces

A hunting ground on the Turkish side of Marv. Vol III · first at D10.20

Kashmirکشمیرkash-MEERPlaces

The land in north-western India. Vol I, II, III · first at A0.12

KatکاتKAHTPlaces

Biward’s land, allied with the Khan. Vol I · first at B13.18

Katayunکتایونka-tah-YOONPeople

The Caesar's eldest daughter, who chooses Goshtasb as husband; mother of Esfandiyar. Vol II · first at C5.7

Katmarehکتمارهkat-ma-REHPeople

A lion-taking Iranian warrior of Karan's line who holds Gudarz's right wing. Vol II · first at C3.6

Katoziansکاتوزیان، نیساریان، نسودی، اهنوخوشیkah-too-zee-YAHN, nee-sah-ree-YAHN, na-soo-DEE, ah-too-khoo-SHEETerms

The four classes of society founded by Jamshid: priests (Katozians), warriors (Nisarians), farmers (Nasudi) and craftsmen (Ahtukhushi). Vol I · first at A4.1

Kavehکاوهkah-VEHPeople

The blacksmith who raised his apron as a banner against Zahhak. Vol I, II, III · first at A5.5

Kaviani standardدرفش کاویانیde-RAFSH-e kah-vee-yah-NEETerms

Kaveh's blacksmith's apron raised on a spear against Zahhak, later jeweled by Fereydoon and carried as the royal banner of Iran. Vol II, III · first at C3.6

Kavusکاووسkah-VOOSPeople

Kay Kavus, the rash second Kayanian king, father of Siavash. Vol I · first at B3.5

Kavus, the rash second Kayanian king, father of Siavash; he dies in the reign of his grandson Kay Khosrow. Vol II, III · first at C2.2

KayکیKAYTerms

Title of the Kayanian kings (Kay Qobad, Kay Kavus, Kay Khosrow). Vol I · first at A5.5

Title of the Kayanian kings (Kay Qobad, Kavus, Kay Khosrow). Vol II, III · first at C1.2

Kayanianکیانیانkay-ah-nee-YAHNTerms

The second royal dynasty of the Shahnameh, founded by Kay Qobad. ‘Kayan’ describes whatever belongs to it: Kayan farr, Kayan crown. Vol I · first at A5.4

The second royal dynasty of the Shahnameh, founded by Kay Qobad. 'Kayan' describes whatever belongs to it: Kayan farr, Kayan crown. Vol II, III · first at C1.6

Kay Arminکی آرمینkay ar-MEENPeople

Youngest son of Kay Qobad. Vol I · first at B3.5

KaydکیدKAYDPeople

A wise king of Hind whose daughter is sent to Iskandar. Vol II · first at D5.5

An Indian sage and astrologer whom Ardeshir consults; he foretells peace only when Ardeshir's line joins with Mehrak's. Vol III · first at D7.4

Kaydafaکیدافاkay-da-FAHPeople

The wise queen of Andalus, mother of Qaydrush, who recognizes Iskandar when he comes to her disguised as his own envoy. Vol II · first at D5.17

A city of Rum whose army marches against Shapur. Vol III · first at D7.12.2

Kay Khosrowکیخسروkay khos-ROWPeople

Son of Siavash and Farangis, raised among shepherds; king of Iran. Vol I · first at B1.14

Son of Siavash and Farangis, raised among shepherds; king of Iran. He avenges his father on Afrasiab, then gives the throne to Lohrasp and vanishes in the snow. Vol II, III · first at C1.2

Kayvanکیوانkay-VAHNTerms

The planet Saturn, highest of the heavens. Vol II · first at C2.1

Keeper of the realm's tax rolls, whose accounts are used when Bahram Goor cancels the people's arrears. Vol III · first at D10.2

Kermanکرمانker-MAHNPlaces

A province of southern Iran, where Dara retreats after his defeat by Iskandar. Vol II · first at C4.2

A province of southern Iran, reached by Haftvad's power and later given by the Shah to his loyal followers. Vol III · first at D6.12

Kermanshahکرمانشاهker-mahn-SHAHPeople

Title given to Bahram Bahramian at his crowning. Vol III · first at D7.16

Keshvadکشوادkesh-VAHDPeople

Father of Gudarz, a commander of Manuchehr’s day. Vol I · first at A6.15

Father of Gudarz, a commander of Manuchehr's day. Vol II, III · first at C2.2

khadangخدنگkha-DANGObjects

An arrow of fine poplar wood. Vol I, II, III · first at A6.15

khaftanخفتانkhaf-TAHNObjects

A padded quilted war-coat worn under or instead of mail. Vol I, II, III · first at B7.4

Khalajخلجkha-LAJPlaces

A Turkic people on Iran's northeastern frontier. Vol III · first at D10.21

Khallokhخلخkhal-LOKHPlaces

A Turkic land of the east, Arjasp's realm, famed for its horsemen and fair maidens. Vol II · first at C3.2

Khanagiخانگیkhah-na-GEEPeople

A wise envoy of Caesar who brings treasure to Khosrow Parviz and is richly rewarded. Vol III · first at E6.53

khanjarخنجرkhan-JARObjects

A curved dagger. Vol I, II, III · first at A5.9

Khanjastخنجستkhan-JASTPlaces

The deep waters into which Afrasiab slips from Hohm's grasp. Vol II · first at C4.42

A lake in Azar Abadagan toward which Khosrow Parviz rides, meeting Mawsil and Bandvi on the way. Vol III · first at E6.22

Khan of Chinخاقان چینkhah-GHAHNPeople

The emperor of Chin, ally of Afrasiab. Vol I, II · first at B10.23

The title of the ruler of Chin and the Turks; in the Kayanian age an ally of Afrasiab, under the Sasanians by turns a foe and an ally of the Shahs. Vol III · first at D10.13

Khaqanخاقانkhah-KAHNPeople

The title of the emperor of Chin. Vol II, III · first at C2.14

khargahخرگاهkhar-GAHObjects

The great felt tent of a king or chieftain on campaign; by extension the camp itself. Vol I · first at B1.14

Kharmanaخرمنهkhar-mah-NAHPlaces

A mountain district named as a place to store Yazdegard's treasures. Vol III · first at E10.7

Khar of Reyخوار ریKHAHRPlaces

A town near Rey. Vol I · first at B1.13

Kharradخرادkhar-RAHDPeople

An Iranian champion. Vol I · first at B1.12

An Iranian champion. Esfandiyar also takes the name Kharrad when he enters the Ruyin Dezh disguised as a merchant (C7.9). Vol II · first at C1.2

Name of several men; for the chief of them, see Kharrad Barzin. Also a sacred fire. Vol III · first at D6.3

Kharrad Barzinخراد برزینkhar-RAHD bar-ZEENPeople

Kharrad son of Barzin, counselor and envoy of Hormizd and Khosrow Parviz. Vol III · first at E5.7

kharvarخروارkhar-VAHRTerms

A donkey-load: a large measure of weight. Vol I, III · first at A9.5

Khashashخشاشkha-SHAHSHPeople

A mighty Turanian warrior who leads Arjasp's scouts and vanguard. Vol II · first at C6.8

Khatlanختلانkhot-TA-lahnPlaces

A land beyond the Oxus. Vol I, II, III · first at B14.14

Khatoonخاتونkhah-TOONTerms

The title of the Khan's queen in Chin. Vol III · first at E1.9

Khavarخاورkhah-VARPlaces

The East. Vol I, II · first at A6.7

Khavar-khodāyخاورخدایkhah-VAR kho-DAHYTerms

‘Lord of the East,’ Tur’s title after the division of the world. Vol I · first at A6.7

Khazarخزرkha-ZARPlaces

The Khazar lands north of the Caspian. Vol I, II · first at B9.41

The Khazar lands north of the Caspian. The text also has 'Khazars'. Vol III · first at D10.18

Khazarvanخزروانkha-zar-VAHNPeople

A Turanian commander, killed by Zal. Vol I · first at B1.3

(1) A commander of Bahram Goor who captures the Khan of Chin. (2) An Iranian noble who counsels Bahram Chubin wisely when he claims the throne. Vol III · first at D10.19

Khazraخضراkhaz-RAHObjects

One of Khosrow Parviz's great treasures, named by the Arabs. Vol III · first at E7.8

khazzخزKHAZZTerms

A fine silk, or the soft fur used to trim it. Vol I, II, III · first at B11.6

kheshtخشتKHESHTObjects

A short spear or javelin. Vol I · first at B8.14

khilatخلعتkhel-ATTerms

A robe of honor given by a king as a mark of favor. Vol I · first at B1.4

KhizrخضرKHEZRPeople

The prophet who guides Iskandar toward the Fount of Life and reaches it alone. Vol II · first at D5.29

khomخمKHOMObjects

A bronze kettledrum. Vol I, II · first at B13.27

Khorasanخراسانkho-rah-SAHNPlaces

The great eastern province of Iran. Vol I, II, III · first at B10.30

Khordadخردادkhor-DAHDTerms

The third month of the year, and a day of each month bearing its name. Vol I, II, III · first at A5.6

Khorra-e-Ardeshirخرّه اردشیرkhor-re-ye ar-da-SHEERPlaces

The first of the cities Ardeshir founds in Pars, built around a spring with a house of fire beside it. Vol III · first at D6.9

Khorramخرّمkhor-RAMPlaces

A wooded meadow of old kings with an answering mountain, consulted on where Iskandar should be buried. Vol II · first at D5.37

Khorram Abadخرم‌آبادkhor-RAM ah-BAHDPlaces

The town Shapur builds for his captives. Vol III · first at D8.1.10

Khorram-Baharخرم‌بهارkhor-RAM ba-HAHRPlaces

A land in Turan given to Siavash. Vol I · first at B9.42

Khorshidخورشیدkhor-SHEEDPeople

Son of Kharrad, a trusted champion of Khosrow Parviz; also the name of a day of the month. Vol III · first at E6.11

Khoshnavazخوشنوازkhosh-na-VAHZPeople

Son of the Khan, ruler of the Heytalians, against whom Pirooz marches and falls. Vol III · first at D11.3.2

Khosraviخسرویkhos-ra-VEETerms

The royal Persian tongue, one of the languages the western fish-eaters do not know. Vol II · first at D5.25

Khosrow Parvizخسرو پرویزkhos-ROW par-VEEZPeople

Son of Hormizd, the Sasanian Shah who flees to Caesar in Rum and returns to win back the throne. Vol III · first at E5.24

KhurخورKHOORPeople

The sun, honored as a sacred being in Zardosht's faith alongside Ormozd, Mah and Mehr. Vol II · first at D4.9

Khutanختنkho-TANPlaces

Khotan, a kingdom of Central Asia under Afrasiab. Vol I, II · first at B1.14

A kingdom of Central Asia, named with Chin and Turkistan among the lands of the Turks. Vol III · first at D10.19

Khuzaخزاعهkhoo-ZAHPeople

An unjust Arab chief who rules from Haram to Yemen after Qahtan, until Iskandar destroys his kin. Vol II · first at D5.16

Khuzanخوزانkhoo-ZAHNPeople

An Iranian commander who fights beside Manushan in Kay Khosrow's host. Vol II · first at C4.2

Khuzestanخوزستانkhoo-ze-STAHNPlaces

A province of southwest Iran. Vol III · first at D7.10

Khuzianخوزیانkhoo-zee-YAHNPlaces

A district on the road to Iran where Shapur rests, and later sends captives to settle. Vol III · first at D8.1.5

KhuziansخوزیانKHOO-zee-anzPlaces

A people whose chieftain stands in Kay Khosrow's host beside the king of Kerman. Vol II · first at C4.2

Khwarazmخوارزمkhah-RAZMPlaces

A land on the lower Oxus, a borderland between Iran and Turan. Vol II, III · first at C3.2

Kianushکیانوشkee-yah-NOOSHPeople

Fereydoon’s brother. Vol I · first at A5.5

Kibchakقپچاقkib-CHAHKPlaces

The Kipchak steppe, a distant plain on the edge of Chin, placed under Gostaham's rule. Vol II · first at C4.39

Kimakکیماکkee-MAHKPlaces

A far-off sea beyond Chin and Makran, across which Afrasiab boasts he can escape. Vol II · first at C4.19

kimiyaکیمیاkee-mee-YAHTerms

Alchemy; by extension, cunning and secret stratagem. Vol I · first at A6.22

Kinam-e-Asiranکنام اسیرانki-nahm-e a-see-RAHNPlaces

A town Shapur builds in Ahvaz, with halls and hospitals, where his captives are housed. Vol III · first at D8.1.10

Kioumarsکیومرثkee-yoo-MARSPeople

The first king of the world. Vol I, III · first at A1.1

Kishmarکشمرkesh-MARPlaces

The place where the sacred cypress sent from Paradise is planted, to which Goshtasb summons all the crowned heads. Vol II · first at C6.3

Kisraکسریkes-RAHPeople

The name given at birth to Qobad's son, the future Anooshirvan. Vol III · first at D12.5

Kohestanکوهستانkoo-hes-TAHNPlaces

‘The mountain country’: the highland province Kavus grants Siavash. Vol I · first at B9.4

Kojaranکجارانko-jah-RAHNPlaces

A crowded town on the Persian shore, in Pars. Vol III · first at D6.12

kolahکلاهko-LAHObjects

A cap or crown. Vol I · first at B13.15

koustکوستKOOSTObjects

The great kettle-drum carried on an elephant or camel, beaten to strike camp and to open battle. Vol I, II, III · first at A6.6

Kroshanکروشانkro-SHAHNPlaces

A land whose crops and trees Afrasiab's vast army eats bare. Vol II · first at C4.3

KuchکوچKOOCHPlaces

A land near Baluchistan, named with it as the far south-east of the empire. Vol I · first at B9.16

A land of the south-east, near the Baluch mountains, whose men end ages of strife by bringing gifts to Anooshirvan. Vol III · first at E1.11

KufaکوفهKOO-fahPlaces

An Arab city whose woodland breeds fine horses. Vol III · first at D9.2

Kuhandizhکهندژkoh-han-DEZHPlaces

A fortress to which Sofrye drives the fleeing Turks. Vol III · first at D11.4.3

Kuhramکهرمkah-RAMPeople

A Turanian commander. Vol I, II · first at B10.7

Kuhram (brother of Arjasp)کهرمkoh-RAMPeople

Arjasp's brother and commander, who kills Farshidvard at Balkh and is slain by Esfandiyar. Vol II · first at C6.8

Kuh son of Bosipasکوه / بوسیپاسKOOH, boo-see-PAHSPeople

The false name and father’s name Houman gives Rostam when he comes to him in disguise. Vol I · first at B14.3

Kulbadکلبادkol-BAHDPeople

A son of Viseh, brother of Piran. Vol I · first at B1.2

A son of Viseh, brother of Piran, slain by Fariborz in the Twelve Rukhs. Vol II · first at C3.6

Kulunقلونgho-LOONPeople

A Turanian champion who blocks Rostam’s return with Kay Qobad. Vol I · first at B2.4

A poor, aged Turk of Makatura's kin, whom Kharrad Barzin sends to stab Bahram Chubin. Vol III · first at E6.36

Kundravکندروkon-DROWPeople

Zahhak’s steward, who flatters Fereydoon and then warns his master. Vol I · first at A5.8

Kundurکندرkon-DORPeople

A warrior of Saklab, ally of the Khan. Vol I · first at B13.18

A commander on the Turkish right in Arjasp's army. Vol II · first at C6.28

Kunduzکندزkoon-DOOZPlaces

The old Pahlavi name of Baikand, where Fereydoon built a fire-temple and where Afrasiab halts. Vol II · first at C4.3

Kurukhanکروخانko-roo-KHAHNPeople

A son of Viseh. Vol I, II · first at B1.6

An official who extorts heavy sums from Balkh; Anooshirvan refuses the money. Vol III · first at E3.3

KusکوسKOOSPlaces

Tammisheh, the region where Fereydoon made his seat. Vol I · first at A6.1

kustiکستیkoos-TEETerms

The sacred Zoroastrian girdle tied by the faithful. Vol II · first at C6.25

KutکوتKOOTPeople

Kut Hazara, a Roman champion who taunts Khosrow and is slain in battle. Vol III · first at E6.21

Kutibقتیبko-TAYBPeople

Husain Kutib, a noble who rewarded the poet for his work. Vol III · first at E11

L

LadanلادنLAH-danPlaces

A battlefield of the Hamavan war. Vol I, II · first at B13.8

Lahhakلهاکlah-HAHKPeople

Son of Viseh, brother of Piran. Vol I · first at B9.55

Son of Viseh, brother of Piran; he flees after Piran's fall and is killed with Farshidvard. Vol II · first at C3.6

Lambakلنبکlam-BAKPeople

A kind, generous water-carrier who hosts Bahram Goor for a night and is richly rewarded. Vol III · first at D10.3

Lashkaristanلشکرستانlash-ka-ree-STAHNPlaces

A land whose men join the troops of Rum and Barbaristan in Kay Khosrow's army. Vol II · first at C4.2

Lazhawardinلاژوردینlah-zhah-var-DEENPlaces

A mountain place judged fit to hold the Iranian stores. Vol III · first at E10.7

Lion-ApeشیرکپیLY-on-AYPPeople

A monstrous beast that ravages the Khan's land and swallows his daughter, and is slain by Bahram Chubin. Vol III · first at E6.34

Lohraspلهراسپloh-RAHSPPeople

The king whom Kay Khosrow chooses as his successor; father of Goshtasb. Vol II, III · first at C3.3

Luriلوریloo-REEPlaces

Minstrels, men and women skilled on the lute, sent by Shangul to Bahram Goor to make music for the poor. Vol III · first at D10.39

M

Machinماچینmah-CHEENPlaces

The land beyond Chin. Vol I, II, III · first at B10.11

Madainمداینma-dah-EENPlaces

The royal seat of the Sasanian kings. Vol III · first at D12.5

MahماهMAHTerms

The Moon, honored with Ormozd, Khur and Mehr among the Zoroastrian divine beings. Vol II · first at D4.9

Mah-Afaridماه‌آفریدmah-ah-fa-REEDPeople

Iraj‘s consort, whose daughter is Manuchehr’s mother. Vol I · first at A6.14

Mah Afridماه‌آفریدmah-ah-FREEDPeople

Called Tur's daughter here; one of the royal women named in C4.61. Vol II · first at C4.61

Eldest of the three daughters of the old dehqan Barzin, given in marriage to Bahram Goor. Vol III · first at D10.13

Mahbudمهبودmah-BOODPeople

A loyal steward of Anooshirvan whose kitchen fed the Shah, destroyed with his sons through Zarvan's envy. Vol III · first at E1.1

mahdمهدMAHDObjects

A litter or cradle for a bride or queen. Vol I · first at A8.22

Mah-e Azadehماه آزادهMAH-e ah-zah-DEHTerms

‘The noble moon,’ Tur’s bride, one of the three princesses of Yemen. Vol I · first at A6.6

Mahiyarماهیارmah-hee-YAHRPeople

Dara's minister, who with Janusiyar murders his king and is hanged by Iskandar. Vol II · first at D4.8

(1) The vile man of Rey who murders Dara of Esfandiyar's line. (2) A rich old jeweler who unknowingly hosts Bahram Goor and gives him his daughter Arezu. Vol III · first at D10.10

Mahmudمحمودmah-MOODPeople

Sultan Mahmud of Ghazni, Ferdowsi’s patron, praised in the prologue. Vol I · first at A0.12

Sultan Mahmud of Ghazni, Ferdowsi's patron, praised in the prologue. Vol II · first at C4.1

Sultan Mahmud of Ghazni, Ferdowsi's patron, praised in the prologue and in the poet's asides. Vol III · first at D6.1

Mahraspandمهراسپندmah-ras-PANDPlaces

The ancestral house in Tisfoon where the deposed king is held. Vol III · first at E8.1

Mahrwiمهرویmahr-VEEPeople

A man ordered by Bahram Chubin to guard Bandvi. Vol III · first at E6.12

Mahwiماهویmah-WEEPeople

Mahwi Suri, marzban of Marv, who betrays Yazdegard, has him killed, and seizes the throne. Vol III · first at E10.5

Makaturaمقاتورهma-kah-too-RAHPeople

The Khan of Chin's champion, who challenges Bahram Chubin and is killed. Vol III · first at E6.32

MakhماخMAHKHPeople

An aged, wise lord of Herat, the poet's source for the reign of Hormizd. Vol III · first at E5.1

Makranمکرانmok-RAHNPlaces

The coastal land of south-eastern Iran. Vol I, II, III · first at B6.1

MalikaمالکهMA-lee-kaPeople

Daughter of Tair the Ghassanid by a captive of Narsi's line, who falls in love with Shapur and betrays her father. Vol III · first at D8.1.2

Mandiaماندیهman-dee-YAHPlaces

A city in Rum that sought quarter from Qobad. Vol III · first at D12.5

ManiمانیMAH-neePeople

The painter-prophet, whose art in Chin is a byword for beautiful painting. Vol II · first at C7.1

The painter-prophet from Chin, whose art is a byword for beautiful painting; confounded by the Mobad at Shapur's court, he is flayed. Vol III · first at D8.1.11

Manijehمنیژهma-nee-ZHEHPeople

Afrasiab's daughter, who loves Bijan and feeds him in his pit. Vol II · first at C2.4

manjaniqمنجنیقman-ja-NEEGHObjects

A mangonel: a siege engine for hurling stones. Vol II · first at C4.21

Manshurمنشورman-SHOORPeople

A warrior of the Khan’s army. Vol I · first at B13.18

Manuchehrمنوچهرma-noo-CHEHRPeople

Grandson of Iraj, who avenges him on Salm and Tur. Vol I, II, III · first at A6.15

Manushanمنوشانmah-noo-SHAHNPeople

An Iranian commander in Kay Khosrow's army, often named with Khuzan. Vol II · first at C4.2

Manwiمانویman-VEEPlaces

A town on Khosrow's road to Rum, which he renamed Minu. Vol III · first at E6.13

Mardanshahمردانشاهmar-dahn-SHAHPeople

(1) A warrior who holds the left wing of Bahram Chubin's army against Saveh. (2) A son of Khosrow and Shirin. Vol III · first at E5.6

Mardasمرداسmer-DAHSPeople

Zahhak‘s just father, whom Zahhak kills at Iblis’s urging. Vol I · first at A4.2

Mardviمردویmard-VEEPeople

A Turanian warrior at Tazhav’s side. Vol I · first at B12.17

(1) A man reported to Anooshirvan for spending great sums from the royal store. (2) Keeper of Khosrow Parviz's royal garden, who lets Barbad hide there to play for the Shah. Vol III · first at E3.3

MarvمروMARVPlaces

A great city of Khorasan; Marvrud is the river-town nearby. Vol I, II · first at B6.8

A great city of Khorasan; Yazdegard, the last Shah, flees there and is betrayed by its lord Mahwi. Vol III · first at D10.19

Marvrudمرورودmarv-ROODPlaces

A town on the Murghab river in Khorasan. Vol I, II · first at B9.16

Maryamمریمmar-YAMPeople

Caesar's daughter, given in marriage to Khosrow. Vol III · first at E6.21

marzbanمرزبانmarz-BAHNTerms

A march-lord who guards a frontier province. Vol I, II, III · first at B1.14

Mawarannahrماوراءالنهرmah-vah-ron-NAHRPlaces

Transoxiana, the land beyond the Oxus. Vol I · first at B3.4

Mawsilموشیلmaw-SEELPeople

An Armenian chief who shelters Bandvi and joins Khosrow Parviz against Bahram Chubin. Vol III · first at E6.12

Mayamمایمmah-YAMPlaces

A camp on Tus’s march. Vol I · first at B12.2

Maysanمیسانmay-SAHNPlaces

A region by the Farat where Ardeshir founded cities. Vol III · first at D7.10

Mazandaranمازندرانmah-zan-da-RAHNPlaces

The Div-ruled land Kavus invades, where Rostam kills the White Div. Vol I, II · first at A7.6

A province of Iran on the Caspian shore, whose treasure-house the Shah draws on. Vol III · first at E4.2

Mazdakمزدکmaz-DAKPeople

A shrewd preacher who wins Qobad to his new doctrine and is hanged on Kisra's order. Vol III · first at D12.6

Meccaمکهmak-KEHPlaces

The holy city of the Arabs, whose shrine men revere. Vol II · first at C6.2

MehrمهرMEHRTerms

The sun and its divinity (Mithra); also the seventh month, in autumn, whose festival is Mehrgan. Vol I, II · first at A6.1

(1) The sun and its divinity (Mithra), one of the three sacred fires; also the seventh month, in autumn, whose festival is Mehrgan. (2) A chief among Bahram Chubin's followers. (3) Mehr Ormozd, the lowly assassin sent to murder the imprisoned Khosrow Parviz. Vol III · first at D6.3

Mehrabمهرابmeh-RAHBPeople

King of Kabul, descended from Zahhak; father of Rudabeh. Vol I, II · first at A8.1

Mehrakمهرکmeh-RAKPeople

Son of Nushzad, of Kayanian descent, who rebels against Ardeshir from Jahram. Vol III · first at D6.14

Mehranمهرانmeh-RAHNPeople

A hermit sage of Hind who interprets King Kayd's dreams. Vol II · first at D5.5

Name of several men: Yazdegard's treasurer and a commander of Anooshirvan. See also Mehran Setad. Vol III · first at D9.5

Mehran Setadمهران ستادmeh-RAHN se-TAHDPeople

A wise elder, chief of the envoys who report to Anooshirvan on the Khan's court, whom the Shah then sends to the Khan to bring back his bride. Vol III · first at E1.7

Mehrasمهراسmeh-RAHSPeople

Father of Ilyas, ruler of Khazar. Vol II · first at C5.14

Caesar's young but wise envoy, who leads the embassy of Mobadan to Anooshirvan. Vol III · first at D13.15

Mehr-Azarمهرآذرmehr-ah-ZAHRPeople

A sage from Istakhr in Pars summoned to debate Mazdak. Vol III · first at D12.7

Mehr BandadمهربندادMEHR ban-DAHDPeople

An old God-fearing country lord who feasts Bahram after he kills two lions in his wood. Vol III · first at D10.6

Mehr-e-Nushمهرنوشmehr-e-NOOSHPeople

A son of Esfandiyar, slain with his brother Nush Azar; Bahman seeks to avenge them. Vol II · first at C6.23

Name of two men: a wise servant whose saying Anooshirvan quotes against a son glad at his father's death, and a pious elder who rebukes Mahwi for the murder of Yazdegard. Vol III · first at D13.18

Mehrganمهرگانmehr-GAHNTerms

The autumn festival of Mehr, founded when Fereydoon took the throne. Vol I, II, III · first at A6.1

Mehriمهریmeh-REEPeople

A wise Mobad at Shapur's accession. Vol III · first at D8.1.1

Mehr Pirooz Kharzadمهرپیروز خرّادmehr pee-ROOZ khar-ZAHDPeople

A noble of Bahram Goor's court, among the chiefs he summons against the Khan of Chin. Vol III · first at D10.19

MesrمصرMESRPlaces

Egypt. Vol I, II, III · first at B6.1

meydanمیدانmey-DAHNTerms

An open square or field for games and parades. Vol I · first at B10.29

milمیلMEELTerms

A measure of distance, about a third of a farsang. Vol I, II, III · first at A0.12

Miladمیلادmee-LAHDPeople

Father of Gorgin. Vol I, II · first at B4.3

(1) Father of Gorgin. (2) An Iranian chief named among the nobles at the end of Yazdegard the Sinner's reign. Vol III · first at D9.8

Milad (city)میلادmee-LAHDPlaces

A city in the realm of Kayd, king of Hind. Vol II · first at D5.6

Minuمینوmee-NOOTerms

The spiritual world; paradise. Vol I · first at B9.5

A town in Rum that Khosrow Parviz names Minu on his way into exile. Vol III · first at E6.13

Miruyمیرویmee-ROOYPeople

Miruy Tabari, a chief fighting beside Rostam against the Arabs. Vol III · first at E10.2

mithqalمثقالmes-GHAHLTerms

A small unit of weight, used for gold and gems. Vol II, III · first at D3.3

Mobadanموبد / موبدانmoh-BAD, moh-ba-DAHNTerms

Zoroastrian priests and sages who counsel the king (singular Mobad). Vol I, II, III · first at A0.8

Mohammadمحمدmo-ham-MADPeople

The Prophet of Islam. Vol I, III · first at A0.7

mohrehمهرهmoh-REHObjects

A seal-stone or amulet bead, like the one Rostam gives Tahmineh for their child; also a bell-bead on war elephants. Vol I · first at B8.4

Monzerمنذرmon-ZERPeople

The Arab king of Yemen who raises Bahram Goor. Vol III · first at D9.2

Mordadمردادmor-DAHDTerms

The fifth month of the Persian year, named for the spirit of immortality. Vol II · first at C2.17

MosesموسیMOO-sahPeople

The prophet. Vol I, II · first at A9.7

Moshkanakمشکنکmosh-ka-NAKPeople

One of four singing maidens who entertain Bahram Goor by a mill. Vol III · first at D10.9

Moshknazمشکنازmoshk-NAHZPeople

One of four singing maidens who entertain Bahram Goor by a mill. Vol III · first at D10.9

Multanمولتانmool-TAHNPlaces

A kingdom in India whose king attends Bahram Goor's court. Vol III · first at D10.37

Murinمیرینmoo-REENPeople

A rich noble of Rum who seeks one of Caesar's daughters in marriage. Vol II · first at C5.9

Mustafaمصطفیmos-ta-FAHPeople

The Prophet Mohammad, the Chosen One. Vol III · first at E11

N

NaftنفتNAFTPlaces

A burning city of smoke and fire that Iskandar approaches through the snows. Vol II · first at D5.28

nahangنهنگna-HANGTerms

A fearsome water monster; a byword for a champion’s ferocity. Vol I · first at A0.11

A fearsome water monster; a byword for a champion's ferocity. Vol II, III · first at C1.4

Nahidناهیدnah-HEEDTerms

The planet Venus. Vol I · first at A9.5

A daughter of Caesar. One Nahid is the princess Goshtasb names Katayun; another is the bride of Darab and mother of Iskandar. Vol II · first at C6.2

The planet Venus, star of beauty and delight; a byword for grace and loveliness. Vol III · first at D5.40

NahlنهلNAHLPeople

A Turanian warrior. Vol I · first at B13.9

Nahravanنهروانnah-ra-VAHNPlaces

A river with a bridge near Madain, where Khosrow Parviz fights Bahram Chubin. Vol III · first at D10.37

Nakhshabنخشبnakh-SHABPlaces

A plain near Bukhara where Bijan's army camps against Mahwi. Vol III · first at E10.13

namdarنامدارnahm-DAHRTerms

A man of renown; the nobles of a court. Vol I · first at B13.10

Namkhastنامخواستnahm-KHASTPeople

A Turanian sorcerer-warrior, son of Hazaran, commander under Arjasp. Vol II · first at C6.5

Narimanنریمانna-ree-MAHNPeople

Father of Sahm, grandfather of Zal. Vol I, II, III · first at A6.15

Narmpaiنرم‌پایnarm-PAHYPlaces

‘Soft-feet’: a land near Mazandaran; its people are the Narm-Pawyawn. Vol I · first at B5.5

Narm-Pawyawnنرم‌پایانnarm-pah-YAHNPlaces

'Soft-feet': the giant, stone-throwing people of Narmpai, a land near Mazandaran. Vol II · first at D5.27

Narsiنرسیnar-SEEPeople

Name of several princes: an Ashkanian king; a Sasanian Shah, son of Bahram and father of Hormizd; and Bahram Goor's younger brother and sepahbod, ruler of Khorasan. Vol III · first at D6.2

Narvanناروانnahr-VAHNPlaces

A wooded region by the Caspian. Vol I, III · first at A6.19

Nasibinنصیبینna-see-BEENPlaces

Nisibis, a frontier city ceded by Rum to Shapur. Vol III · first at D8.1.10

Nasir al-Dinناصرالدینnah-SER od-DEENPeople

Sebuktigin, father of Sultan Mahmud. Vol I · first at A0.12

NasrنصرNASRPeople

A noble of Mecca of Ismail's line who welcomes Iskandar. Vol II · first at D5.16

(1) Brother of Sultan Mahmud and his sepahbod, blessed by the poet. (2) The Samanid king under whom Kalila was put into Dari. Vol III · first at D6.1

Nastadنستادnas-TAHDPeople

A herdsman of Caesar's in Rum whom Goshtasb asks for work. Vol II · first at C5.5

Nastihanنستیهنnas-tee-HANPeople

A son of Viseh. Vol I · first at B9.33

A son of Viseh, slain by Bijan in a night attack. Vol II · first at C3.16

Nastoohنستوهnas-TOOHPeople

A son of Gudarz. Vol I, II · first at B12.4

A warrior of Khosrow Parviz's guard, sent in pursuit of Bahram Chubin and taken captive by him. Vol III · first at E5.5

Nasturنستورnas-TOORPeople

Son of Zarir, who avenges his father in the war with Arjasp. Vol II · first at C6.10

One of the four sons Shirin bore to Khosrow Parviz. Vol III · first at E8.6

navakناوکnah-VAKObjects

A short arrow shot through a guide-tube. Vol I · first at A9.2

Nawandنوندna-VANDPlaces

A place with a sacred fire. Vol I · first at B7.1

Naztabنازیابnahz-TAHBPeople

One of four maidens who sing and serve wine for Bahram Goor. Vol III · first at D10.9

Nesafنسفne-SAFPlaces

A town of Transoxiana through which the Khan of Chin marches his forces. Vol III · first at E1.4

neyنیNEYObjects

A reed pipe; ney-e sarghin is a kind of war pipe. Vol I, II · first at B1.5

nezhadنژادne-ZHAHDTerms

Lineage and noble birth. Vol I · first at B12.3

Nimruzنیمروزneem-ROOZPlaces

Sistan; the realm of Sahm, Zal and Rostam. Vol I, II, III · first at A7.5

Niranانیرانnee-RAHNPlaces

The lands outside Iran ('non-Iran'); also the name of the last day of the month. Vol III · first at E6.36

Nisaنساnee-SAHPlaces

A town beyond Gorgan on the road to Turan. Vol III · first at D10.20

Nishapurنیشابورnee-shah-POORPlaces

A city of Khorasan. Vol I, II, III · first at B6.8

Nivzarنیوزارneev-ZAHRPeople

A son of Goshtasb who fights in the war with Arjasp. Vol II · first at C6.10

Niyatusنیاطوسnee-yah-TOOSPeople

Caesar's brother, who leads the Roman army sent with Maryam to restore Khosrow Parviz. Vol III · first at E6.21

Nohzarنوذرnow-ZARPeople

Manuchehr’s son and heir, killed by Afrasiab. Vol I · first at A7.4

Manuchehr's son and heir, killed by Afrasiab. Vol II, III · first at C2.2

Nowbaharنوبهارnow-ba-HAHRPlaces

The fire temple of Balkh, where Lohrasp retires to worship. Vol II · first at C6.2

Nowruzنوروزnow-ROOZTerms

The Persian New Year at the spring equinox, founded when Jamshid rose into the sky on his throne. Vol I, II, III · first at A0.5

Numanنعمانno'-MAHNPeople

An Arab prince, companion of Monzer, who helps raise Bahram Goor in Yemen and win him the throne. Vol III · first at D9.2

Nushaنوشهnoo-SHAHPeople

Daughter of Narsi and aunt of Shah Shapur (Zul-Aktaf), carried off by an Arab raider. Vol III · first at D8.1.2

Nush Azarنوش‌آذرnoosh-ah-ZARPeople

A son of Esfandiyar, builder of a fire temple, killed in battle with Rostam's Sistani troops. Vol II · first at C6.18

nush-daruنوشداروnoosh-dah-ROOObjects

A healing antidote. Kavus withholds it from the dying Sohrab. Vol I, II · first at B8.22

A healing antidote, above all the cure for a serpent's bite, proverbially kept back or come too late. Vol III · first at D9.9

Nushzadنوشزادnoosh-ZAHDPeople

(1) Father of Mehrak of Jahram, of Kayanian descent; (2) Anooshirvan's son by a Christian wife, who turns Christian, rebels, and dies fighting Ram Barzin. Vol III · first at D6.14

O

Ordibeheshtاردیبهشتor-dee-be-HESHTTerms

The second month of spring. Vol I, II · first at B9.43

Ormozdاورمزدor-MOZDTerms

The Creator (Ahura Mazda); also the name of the first day of each month. Vol I, II · first at A4.1

(1) The Creator (Ahura Mazda), whose name is also the first day of each month. (2) Several men: the father of Rostam and Farrokhzad, a warrior of Khosrow Parviz, Ormozd Shahran Guraz of Istakhr, and Ormozd son of Kharrad, the pious elder who rebukes Mahwi. Vol III · first at D7.13.2

Ormozd-Ardeshirهرمز اردشیرor-mozd ar-de-SHEERPlaces

A city founded by Ardeshir in Khuzestan. Vol III · first at D7.10

orungاورنگow-RANGObjects

The royal throne; royal majesty. Vol I · first at B9.35

Ostad Piroozاستاد پیروزos-TAHD pee-ROOZPeople

An Iranian commander who leads Anooshirvan's right wing. Vol III · first at D13.11

ostudanاستودانos-too-DAHNTerms

An ossuary: the tomb that holds a hero’s bones. Vol I · first at B1.9

P

PahlavپهلوPAH-lavPlaces

The Parthian lands; also Pahlav cloth. Vol I · first at B5.11

Pahlaviپهلویpah-la-VEETerms

Middle Persian, the language of the old book of kings. Vol I, II, III · first at A0.10

Pahlevanپهلوانpah-le-VAHNTerms

A champion of the first rank, heroic defender of the throne; above all Rostam and his house. Vol I, II, III · first at A0.8

Pahlevaniپهلوانیpah-le-vah-NEETerms

The speech or bearing of a Pahlevan; in the old heroic tongue. Vol I · first at B9.33

Paikar-e-Gurdپیکار گردpay-kahr-e-GORDObjects

A tune Barbad sings, hidden in the garden, to win the notice of Khosrow Parviz. Vol III · first at E7.6

Palashanپلاشانpa-lah-SHAHNPeople

A Turanian champion killed by Bijan. Vol I · first at B11.6

Palavinaپالوینهpa-lah-vee-NAHPlaces

A walled Roman city besieged by Shapur. Vol III · first at D7.12.2

Panjhirپنجهیرpanj-HEERPlaces

A district near Bamiyan on Iran's eastern frontier. Vol II · first at C3.20

parda-sarayپرده‌سرایpar-DEH sa-RAHYTerms

The screened royal enclosure of a camp. Vol I · first at B13.28

pariپریpa-REETerms

A beautiful spirit being; ‘pari-faced’ means surpassingly lovely. Vol I · first at A1.1

A beautiful spirit being; 'pari-faced' means surpassingly lovely. Vol II · first at C2.5

Parmayehپرمایهpar-mah-YEHPeople

One of Fereydoon’s two elder brothers, with Kianush. Vol I · first at A5.5

Parmudehپرمودهpar-moo-DEHPeople

Son of King Saveh and Khan of Chin and the Turks, who is besieged by Bahram Chubin in Avaza and submits to Hormizd. Vol III · first at E5.7

parniyanپرنیانpar-nee-YAHNTerms

Painted or figured silk. Vol I, II · first at B9.38

ParsپارسPAHRSPlaces

The province of Persis in the south-west. Vol I, II, III · first at B1.5

Pashanپشنpa-SHANPlaces

The battlefield where Piran routed the Iranians and many of Gudarz's kin fell. Vol II · first at C3.7

Pashangپشنگpa-SHANGPeople

(1) Son of Tur’s line, king of Turan and father of Afrasiab. (2) Father of Manuchehr. Vol I · first at A6.14

Father of Afrasiab; the name is also given to Afrasiab's son Shideh. Vol II · first at C3.23

Pashinکی پشینkay pa-SHEENPeople

Third son of Kay Qobad. Vol I, II, III · first at B3.5

Paykandبیکندpay-KANDPlaces

A town near Bukhara where Mahwi's troops gather for battle. Vol III · first at E10.13

pikanپیکانpey-KAHNObjects

An arrowhead; by extension, an arrow. Vol I · first at B13.10

Pilsamپیلسمpeel-SAMPeople

Piran’s brother, a Turanian champion. Vol I · first at B7.3

Piltanپیلتنpeel-TANPeople

‘Elephant-bodied’: an epithet of Rostam. Vol I · first at B8.5

'Elephant-bodied': an epithet of Rostam. Vol II · first at C1.4

Piranپیرانpee-RAHNPeople

Son of Viseh, Afrasiab’s wise commander, protector of Siavash and Kay Khosrow. Vol I · first at B7.2

Son of Viseh, Afrasiab's wise commander, protector of Siavash and Kay Khosrow; slain by Gudarz in the Twelve Rukhs. Vol II · first at C2.9

Piroozپیروزpee-ROOZPeople

Son of Yazdegard, the Sasanian Shah who falls into Khoshnavaz's hidden trench fighting the Heytalians; father of Qobad and Balawsh. Vol III · first at D8.1.10

Pirooz-Ramپیروزرامpee-rooz-RAHMPlaces

A city built by Shah Pirooz, identified with Rey. Vol III · first at D11.3.2

PleiadesپروینPAR-veenTerms

The Pleiades (Persian Parvin), the cluster Ferdowsi reaches for whenever something is dazzling, clustered or impossibly high. Vol I, II, III · first at A0.12

Poorandokhtپوراندختpoo-rahn-DOKHTPeople

A woman of royal blood who rules Iran justly for six months. Vol III · first at E9.4

Pulad Ghandiپولاد غندیpoo-LAHD ghan-DEEPeople

A Div champion of Mazandaran. Vol I, II · first at B4.4

Puladvandپولادوندpoo-lahd-VANDPeople

A Div-like champion summoned by Afrasiab, defeated by Rostam. Vol I · first at B14.22

Q

Qahtanقحطانghah-TAHNPeople

Legendary ancestor of the southern Arabs. Vol I, II · first at A8.10

Qarakhanقراخانga-rah-KHAHNPeople

Afrasiab's eldest son, a Turanian commander. Vol II · first at C3.2

Qaydrushقیدروشghayd-ROOSHPeople

Son of Queen Kaydafa and son-in-law of King Faryan, captured by Iskandar's men. Vol II · first at D5.19

Qaytunقیطونgay-TOONPeople

King of Mesr, questioned by Iskandar about Queen Kaydafa. Vol II · first at D5.17

Qazā and Qadarقضا و قدرgha-ZAH, gha-DARTerms

Divine decree and destiny. Vol I · first at B13.28

qintarقنطارghin-TAHRTerms

A great measure of weight. Vol III · first at D10.22

Qobadقبادgho-BAHDPeople

(1) Kay Qobad, founder of the Kayanian dynasty. (2) Qobad, Gharan’s brother, killed by Barman. Vol I · first at A6.15

(1) Kay Qobad, founder of the Kayanian dynasty. (2) Qobad, Gharan's brother, killed by Barman. Vol II · first at C3.10

(1) Kay Qobad, founder of the Kayanian line. (2) Qobad son of Pirooz, Sasanian king and father of Anooshirvan, who is deposed, regains the throne and embraces Mazdak's creed. Also the throne name of Shiruyeh. Vol III · first at D6.1

Qolzumقلزمgho-LZOMPlaces

The Red Sea. Vol I · first at B10.15

QomقمGHOMPlaces

A city of central Iran. Vol II · first at C4.58

Qomari aloeswoodعود قماریgho-mah-REEObjects

The finest aloeswood, from Qomar. Vol I · first at B6.9

QumقمGHOMPlaces

A city of central Iran. Vol I, III · first at B10.30

Qutaybقتیبgo-TAYBPeople

An Arab forebear from whose line the chief Shaeeb descends. Vol II · first at D3.2

R

rababربابra-BAHBObjects

A bowed stringed instrument. Vol I, II · first at B9.31

Radaراداrah-DAHPlaces

A mountain named with Shamiran and Kalat. Vol III · first at E10.7

radanردانra-DAHNTerms

The wise men and elders of the realm. Vol I · first at B1.1

Rad Barzinراد برزینRAHD bar-ZEENPeople

An Iranian chief in Bahram Goor's muster. Vol III · first at D10.19

Radmanرادمانrahd-MAHNPeople

A chief who meets in secret council with Khosrow Parviz. Vol III · first at E6.4

Radwiرادویrahd-VEEPeople

A learned Mobad who rebukes Mahwi for the murder of Yazdegard. Vol III · first at E10.10

Raibadریبدray-BAHDPlaces

A plain and mountain on the Turan frontier where Gudarz camps before the great battle. Vol II · first at C3.4

RajaرایRAH-jahTerms

Title of a king of Hind, such as Shangul or the lord of Ghanooj. Vol III · first at D10.37

RakhshرخشRAKHSHObjects

Rostam’s horse, rose-colored and dappled, chosen from the herds of Zabul. Vol I · first at B2.2

Rostam's horse, rose-colored and dappled, chosen from the herds of Zabul. Wounded with Rostam by Esfandiyar and healed by the Simorgh, it dies with him in Shaghad's pit. Vol II · first at C1.3

Rostam's famous horse, whose ears, hooves and head are likened to those of a marvelous beast. Vol III · first at D6.6

rameshgaranرامشگرانrah-mesh-ga-RAHNTerms

Minstrels and musicians. Vol I · first at B11.7

Rashnavadرشنوادrash-na-VAHDPeople

Homahyi's sepahbod, who leads her army against Rum and discovers Darab. Vol II · first at D2.3

rastakhizرستاخیزras-tah-KHEEZTerms

The Resurrection; by extension, an uproar like the end of the world. Vol I · first at B12.22

ratlرطلRATLTerms

A measure of weight. Vol II · first at D5.28

ravan-dadروان‌دادra-VAHN dahdTerms

An offering made for the soul of the dead. Vol I · first at B12.25

Ravarراورrah-VARPlaces

A district on the way to Kabulistan, within Rostam's domain. Vol II · first at C4.57

ReyریREYPlaces

A great ancient city near present-day Tehran. Vol I, II, III · first at B1.5

richalریچالree-CHAHLTerms

A fruit or vegetable preserve, set out with salt and bread at a simple meal. Vol I · first at B5.4

Rivnizریونیزreev-NEEZPeople

An Iranian noble among those who hail Goshtasb as Shah. Vol II · first at C5.17

Rivniz (son-in-law of Tus)ریونیزreev-NEEZPeople

Tus’s son-in-law, shot down by Forood at Kalat (B12.7). A different man from Rivniz son of Kavus. Vol I · first at B11.5

Rivniz (son of Kavus)ریونیزreev-NEEZPeople

A son of Kavus, killed in the war of vengeance for Siavash (B12.22). A different man from Tus’s son-in-law of the same name. Vol I · first at B12.22

Rizmehrرزمهرreez-MEHRPeople

Son of Sofrye, given the captive Qobad to guard, who becomes his confidant and helps him. Vol III · first at D12.3

Rizvanرضوانrez-VAHNTerms

The keeper of paradise. Vol I · first at B4.3

Rohhamرهامroh-HAHMPeople

Son of Gudarz, an Iranian champion. Vol I, II · first at B5.7

An Iranian chief in Bahram Goor's host. Vol III · first at D10.19

Roshanakروشنکro-sha-NAKPeople

Dara's daughter, whom he gives to Iskandar as bride; her mother is Dalaray. Vol II · first at D4.9

Rostamرستمros-TAMPeople

Son of Zal and Rudabeh, the greatest Pahlevan of Iran; also called Tahamtan and Piltan. Vol I · first at A9.1

Son of Zal and Rudabeh, the greatest Pahlevan of Iran; also called Tahamtan and Piltan. He slays Esfandiyar and dies through his half-brother Shaghad's treachery. Vol II · first at C1.2

(1) Son of Zal, the great Pahlevan of the earlier books, invoked here as a byword for valor. (2) Brother of Zad Farrokh, who revolts against Khosrow Parviz with ten thousand swordsmen. (3) Rostam son of Ormozd, Yazdegard's commander against the Arabs, killed at Kadisiya by Sa'ad son of Wakkas. Vol III · first at E5.6

Rozbehروزبهrooz-BEHPeople

A high Mobad and counselor of Bahram Goor. Vol III · first at D10.8

rozi-dehanروزی‌دهانroo-ZEE de-HAHNTerms

The paymasters who issue the army’s rations and pay. Vol I · first at B11.5

rudرودROODObjects

A lute-like stringed instrument. Vol I, II · first at A9.2

Rudabehرودابهroo-dah-BEHPeople

Mehrab‘s daughter, Zal’s wife and mother of Rostam. Vol I · first at A8.2

Mehrab's daughter, Zal's wife and mother of Rostam. Vol II · first at C8.6

Rudaghiرودکیroo-dah-GHEEPeople

The poet who sets the prose of Kalila and Dimna into verse. Vol III · first at E2.4

Rudyabرودیابrood-YAHBPeople

Father of Babak, the master-shepherd who takes in Sasan. Vol III · first at D6.3

RukhرخROKHTerms

The rook in chess, a warrior piece on each wing. Vol III · first at E2.1

RumرومROOMPlaces

Rome and Byzantium; the west. Vol I · first at A0.12

Rum and Byzantium; the west. Vol II, III · first at C1.6

RusروسROOSPlaces

A northern land named as a source of treasure. Vol III · first at E7.8

Ruyinرویینroo-YEENPeople

Son of Piran. Vol I · first at B9.33

Son of Piran, slain by Bijan in the Twelve Rukhs. Vol II · first at C3.6

Ruyin Dezhرویین‌دژroo-YEEN dezhPlaces

'The brazen fortress': Arjasp's stronghold in Turan, where Goshtasb's daughters are held captive; Esfandiyar takes it by guile and burns it. Vol II · first at C6.32

The fortress Esfandiyar stormed, whose tale Bahram Chubin asks to hear sung at his feast; Yazdegard later writes to the lords there. Vol III · first at E5.24

S

Sa'adسعدsa-AHDPeople

Son of Wakkas, the Arab commander Umar sends against Iran, who meets Rostam in single combat. Vol III · first at E10.2

Sabbahصباحsab-BAHHPeople

King of Yemen, an ally in Kay Khosrow's host. Vol II · first at C4.2

Sabz dar sabzسبز در سبزSABZ dar SABZTerms

'Green upon green,' a melody played by the hidden lute-player. Vol III · first at E7.6

Sadehسدهsa-DEHTerms

The midwinter fire festival, founded by Hushang when he discovered fire. Vol I, II, III · first at A2.2

Sagzarسگسارsag-SAHRPlaces

‘Dog-heads’: a land of monstrous warriors. Vol I · first at A8.8

Sagziسگزیsag-ZEETerms

‘Man of Sistan’; used of Rostam, sometimes with scorn by his enemies. Vol I · first at B13.29

'Man of Sistan'; used of Rostam, sometimes with scorn by his enemies. Vol II · first at C8.22

Sahaسحاsa-HAHPlaces

A pleasure-city. Vol I · first at B6.3

SahlسهلSAHLPeople

Father of Ahmad, at whose house in Marv the old man Azad Sarv lived. Vol II · first at C9.1

Sahl Mahanسهل ماهانSAHL mah-HAHNPeople

A lord of Marv for whom Azad Sarv, the source of Rostam's story, recited his tales. Vol II · first at C9.1

SahmسامSAHMPeople

Son of Nariman, the great Pahlevan of Manuchehr’s reign; father of Zal. Vol I · first at A6.15

Son of Nariman, the great Pahlevan of Manuchehr's reign; father of Zal. Vol II, III · first at C1.4

sajساجSAHJObjects

The teak tree, a byword for tall, straight stature. Vol I · first at A8.1

Sakilسقیلsa-KEELPeople

Son of the Caesar of Rum, commanding his left wing against Ilyas. Vol II · first at C5.15

Sakilaسقیلاsa-kee-LAHPlaces

A mountain in Rum, lair of a dragon Goshtasb slays. Vol II · first at C5.11

A fortress near Halab in Rum, which the Romans hold and raid from against Anooshirvan's army. Vol III · first at E4.2

Saklabسقلابsagh-LAHBPlaces

The land of the Slavs. Vol I, II, III · first at B13.18

salarسالار / سالار بارsah-LAHRTerms

Commander. The salar-e bar is the royal chamberlain, who keeps the king’s audience hall. Vol I · first at B11.7

salichسلیحsa-LEEHObjects

Arms and war gear. Vol I · first at B10.9

SalmسلمSALMPeople

Fereydoon’s eldest son, ruler of Rum and the west; a murderer of Iraj. Vol I · first at A6.6

Fereydoon's eldest son, ruler of Rum and the west; a murderer of Iraj. Vol II, III · first at C3.20

Samakسماکsa-MAHKTerms

A star; to reach Samak is to rise to the heights of heaven. Vol III · first at E6.54

Samanganسمنگانsa-man-GAHNPlaces

Tahmineh‘s father’s kingdom, where Rostam finds Rakhsh. Vol I · first at B8.2

Samanianسامانیانsah-mah-nee-YAHNPlaces

A royal house named among the great lines of the past. Vol III · first at D6.1

Samarkandسمرقندsa-mar-GHANDPlaces

A city of Transoxiana. Vol I, III · first at B9.23

Sambazسنبادsam-BAHZPeople

A veteran elder among Bahram Chubin's chiefs who urges him to take the crown. Vol III · first at E6.11

Samiranشمیرانsa-mee-RAHNPeople

A king from whom Bahram Goor claims royal descent through his mother. Vol III · first at D9.12

Samkunanسمکنانsam-koo-NAHNPeople

An Iranian commander whom Kay Khosrow sends to hold the left. Vol II · first at C4.10

Sandaliسندلیsan-dah-LEEPlaces

A realm of Hind, whose lord rides with Bahram Goor, and later Jamhur's royal seat. Vol III · first at D10.37

sandaracسندروسSAN-da-rakObjects

Sandarac, a yellow resin; a byword for the yellow face of fear. Vol I · first at B8.14

sanjسنجSANJObjects

Cymbals. Vol I · first at B6.1

Sanjaسنجهsan-JEHPeople

A Div of Mazandaran. Vol I, II · first at B4.3

Sapandarmadسپندارمذse-pan-dar-MADTerms

The guardian spirit of the earth, and the month named for her. Vol II, III · first at C2.17

Sapinudسپینودsa-pee-NOODPeople

Daughter of Shangul, king of Hind, whom Bahram Goor marries and carries off to Iran. Vol III · first at D10.32

Sarakhsسرخسsa-RAKHSPlaces

A city of Khorasan on the border of Turan. Vol I · first at B7.1

Sargesسرگسsar-GESPeople

A Rumi commander, with Kut and Niyatus, in the army Caesar sends with Khosrow Parviz. Vol III · first at E6.21

Sariساریsah-REEPlaces

A city of Tabaristan. Vol I, II, III · first at A6.26

Sarkashسرکشsar-KASHPeople

Khosrow Parviz's court minstrel, jealous rival of Barbad. Vol III · first at E7.5

Saruchساروچsa-ROOCHPlaces

A plain in Iran. Vol I · first at B9.16

A plain from which the men of Kuch come with gifts to submit to Anooshirvan. Vol III · first at E1.11

SarvسروSARVPeople

King of Yemen, father of the three princesses. Vol I · first at A6.2

Sasanساسانsah-SAHNPeople

Son of Bahman, who goes into exile when Bahman leaves the crown to Homay's unborn child; his son, also named Sasan, carries on the line. Vol II · first at D1.5

Son of Bahman, who goes into exile when Bahman leaves the crown to Homay's unborn child. His descendants, all named Sasan, live as shepherds until the last, Babak's son-in-law, fathers Ardeshir and gives his name to the Sasanian house. Vol III · first at D6.3

Sasanianساسانیانsah-sah-nee-YAHNPlaces

The royal house descended from Sasan, founded by Ardeshir, which rules Iran down to Yazdegard. Vol III · first at D6.1

Sasan (son of Sasan)ساسانsah-SAHNPeople

Son of the exiled Sasan, born at Nishapur; orphaned and poor, he tends the flocks of the king of Nishapur. Vol II · first at D1.5

SavسوSAHVPlaces

A spring to which the ailing Yazdegard is carried for healing, where his fate overtakes him. Vol III · first at D9.6

Savaساوهsah-VEHPeople

A kinsman of Kamus, killed by Rostam. Vol I · first at B14.12

Savehساوهsah-VEHPeople

King of the Turks and Chin who marches on Iran from Herat in Hormizd's reign and is killed by Bahram Chubin. Vol III · first at E5.4

Sawaساوهsah-VAHPeople

An Iranian chief left to hold the gate of Arjasp's stronghold when Esfandiyar rides out. Vol II · first at C7.12

senjedسنجدsen-JEDTerms

The sweet dried fruit of the oleaster tree. Vol III · first at D10.12

sepahbodسپهبدse-pah-BODTerms

Army commander, general. Vol I, II, III · first at A6.18

sepahdarسپهدارse-pah-DARTerms

An army commander. Vol II · first at C2.19

Sepandسپندse-PANDPlaces

The mountain fortress Rostam takes disguised as a salt merchant. Vol I · first at A9.3

Sepid Koohسپید کوهse-PEED KOOHPlaces

‘White Mountain’ in Turan. Vol I · first at B12.3

Seven Climesهفت کشورHAFT kesh-VARTerms

The seven regions of the inhabited world. Vol I · first at A2.1

seven climesهفت کشورHAFT kesh-VARTerms

The seven regions of the inhabited world. Vol II, III · first at C2.12

Seven Springsهفت چشمهSEV-en SPRINGSObjects

A famed jewel in the royal treasure, handed down from the time of Iraj and Manuchehr. Vol III · first at E7.5

Shabahangشبهنگsha-ba-HANGObjects

Farhad's white horse. Vol II · first at C2.11

Shabdizشبدیزshab-DEEZObjects

‘Night-colored’: a black horse (A9.2, B1.2). Vol I · first at A9.2

'Night-colored': the name of a black horse; Goshtasb rides off by night on Shabdiz, his father Lohrasp's charger. Vol II · first at C5.4

'Night-colored': the name of the black charger ridden by Bahram Goor and later by Khosrow Parviz. Vol III · first at D10.10

shabestanشبستانsha-bes-TAHNTerms

The private inner quarters of a palace. Vol I · first at A5.7

Shabrangشبرنگshab-RANGObjects

‘Night-hued’: the black horse of Siavash and later Kay Khosrow, also called Behzad. Vol I · first at B10.18

'Night-hued': Bijan's black horse, which he rides against the boars, to Manijeh's land and in the war of the Twelve Champions. Vol II · first at C2.3

Shadanشادانshah-DAHNPeople

Son of Barzin, whose account of a hidden matter from Anooshirvan's reign the poet relays. Vol III · first at E2.4

Shadwardشادوردshahd-VARDTerms

One of Khosrow Parviz's famed treasures, celebrated by minstrels. Vol III · first at E7.8

Shaeebشعیبsha-EEBPeople

An Arab chief of Qutayb's line who leads spear-bearing horsemen against Darab and falls in battle. Vol II · first at D3.2

Shaghadشغادsha-GHAHDPeople

Son of Zal by a serving maid, raised at the court of Kabul, who plots the death of his brother Rostam. Vol II · first at C9.2

ShahشاهSHAHTerms

King. Vol I, II, III · first at A0.12

Shahanshahشاهنشاهshah-han-SHAHTerms

King of kings. Vol I · first at A5.8

ShahdشهدSHAHDPlaces

A river on the border of Turan. Vol I · first at B7.1

A place on the road by which the ailing Yazdegard is borne toward the spring of Sav. Vol III · first at D9.7

Shahnamehشاهنامهshah-nah-MEHTerms

'The Book of Kings': Ferdowsi's poem itself. Vol III · first at E11

Shahraشهراshah-RAHPeople

A man of rank in Bahram Goor's army whom the Shah makes king of Turan. Vol III · first at D10.21

Shahran Gurazشهران گرازshah-rahn-go-RAHZPeople

An Iranian commander; as Ormozd Shahran Guraz of Istakhr he shoots down the usurper Guraz on the hunt. Vol III · first at E6.11

Shahr-Banuشهربانوshahr-bah-NOOPeople

Giv’s sister, married to Rostam. Vol I · first at B10.23

Shahrgeerشهرگیرshahr-GEERPeople

One of Iskandar's commanders, who takes Kaydafa's son Qaydrush and his bride captive. Vol II · first at D5.19

A prudent commander of Ardeshir Babakan who holds the troops in reserve and marches at the smoke signal of victory. Vol III · first at D6.15

Shahrivarشهریورshah-ree-VAHRTerms

A day of the month named for the guardian angel of kingship and victory. Vol II · first at C2.17

The month, and a day of each month, named for the guardian angel of kingship and victory. Vol III · first at D10.17

Shahrnazشهرنازshahr-NAHZPeople

Daughter of Jamshid, taken by Zahhak and freed by Fereydoon. Vol I · first at A5.1

Shahruyشهرویshah-ROO-eePeople

A noble who rebukes Mahwi for plotting Yazdegard's death. Vol III · first at E10.10

Shahryarشهریارshahr-YAHRPeople

One of the four sons Shirin bore Khosrow Parviz. Vol III · first at E8.6

Shahrzurشهرزورshahr-ZOORPlaces

A land whose king is named among those overcome by Iskandar. Vol II · first at D5.39

Shahviشاهویshah-VEEPeople

Haftvad's ill-tempered eldest son, captured with him by Ardeshir; also the old sage whose tale of chess the poet retells. Vol III · first at D6.13

ShaknشکنانSHAKNPlaces

A land (Shughnan) whose warriors join the Khan. Vol I · first at B13.18

Shalamشلمsha-LAHMPlaces

A land of the Arabs, named with Hijaz and Yemen. Vol II · first at D5.14

ShamشامSHAHMPlaces

Syria. Vol I, III · first at B6.1

shamamehشمامهsha-mah-MEHTerms

A scented ball of musk and amber carried in the hand. Vol I · first at B11.6

Shamasasشماساسsha-mah-SAHSPeople

A Turanian commander. Vol I · first at B1.3

Shamiranشمیرانshe-mee-RAHNPeople

A warrior from Shakn in the Khan’s army. Vol I · first at B13.18

A frontier stronghold named with Ruyin Dezh, Kalat and Rada in Yazdegard's letter to the frontier lords. Vol III · first at E10.7

Shammakhشماخsham-MAKHPeople

King of Sur, an Iranian commander under Kay Khosrow. Vol II · first at C3.17

Shammasشماسsham-MAHSPeople

The commander chosen by the Christians of Rum who rise with Nushzad against his father. Vol III · first at D13.19

Shanbalidشنبلیدshan-ba-LEEDPeople

Youngest of the three daughters Bahram Goor takes as wives, sister of Mah Afrid and Faranak. Vol III · first at D10.13

Shangulشنگلshan-GOLPeople

King of Hind, ally of the Khan of Chin. Vol I · first at B13.18

King of Hind, ally of the Khan of Chin; Bahram Goor visits his court as his own envoy and marries his daughter Sapinud. Vol III · first at D10.26

Shapurشاپورshah-POORPeople

An Iranian champion in Manuchehr’s army. Vol I · first at A6.17

An Iranian champion who serves from Manuchehr's reign through Kay Khosrow's wars. Vol II · first at C2.2

Name of several men. Three Sasanian kings have their own entries; also an Ashkanian king, Shapur of Rey, of Mehrak's line, and a noble of Khosrow Parviz's court. Vol III · first at D6.2

Shapur Girdشاپورگردshah-poor-GERDPlaces

A city Shapur builds on reaching Ahvaz with the tribute of Rum. Vol III · first at D7.12.2

Shapur (son of Ardeshir)شاپورshah-POORPeople

Son of Ardeshir Babakan and the second Sasanian king, who promises open justice and leaves the throne to his son Hormizd. Vol III · first at D7.3

Shapur (son of Shapur)شاپورshah-POORPeople

Son of Shapur Zul-Aktaf, who takes the crown from his uncle Ardeshir and is killed when a storm brings his tent down on him. Vol III · first at D8.3

Shapur Zul-Aktafشاپور ذوالاکتافshah-POOR zol-ak-TAHFPeople

Son of Hormizd, born after his father's death and crowned at forty days; the Arabs call him Zul-Aktaf. Vol III · first at D8.1

shastشستSHASTTerms

Sixty; Ferdowsi uses it loosely for a great amount, here a great height. Vol I · first at B6.8

Shatrakhشطرخsha-TRAKHPeople

A Turanian warrior. Vol I · first at B13.9

Shavaranشاورانshah-va-RAHNPlaces

Zangeh’s homeland. Vol I · first at B6.3

The father (or, as some read it, the homeland) of the Iranian hero Zangeh, who is called 'son of Shavaran'. Vol II · first at C2.20

Shawwalشوالshav-VAHLTerms

The tenth month of the Arab lunar calendar. Vol III · first at D6.1

shaypurشیپورshey-POORObjects

A trumpet. Vol I, II · first at B6.5

Shibanشیبانshee-BAHNPlaces

An Arab tribe from which Monzer bids Numan raise troops. Vol III · first at D9.9

Shidaspشیدسپshee-DASPPeople

Tahmuras’s vizier. Vol I · first at A3.1

Goshtasb's son, a prince killed by a Turkish arrow in the war against Arjasp. Vol II · first at C6.10

Shidehشیدهshee-DEHPeople

Afrasiab’s son. Vol I · first at B9.32

Afrasiab's son, a Turanian commander, killed in single combat by Kay Khosrow. Vol II · first at C2.26

Shidushشیدوشshee-DOOSHPeople

Son of Gudarz, an Iranian champion. Vol I, II · first at A6.18

Shiknanشکنانshik-NAHNPlaces

A land whose warriors come to Ghatfar's side against the Khan. Vol III · first at E1.4

Shinganشنگانshen-GAHNPlaces

A land sending gifts and troops to the Khan. Vol I · first at B14.14

A land beyond the Oxus that sends gifts and troops to the Khan and is offered up by Turan in its peace terms. Vol II · first at C3.20

Shirazشیرازshee-RAHZPlaces

A city of Pars in southern Iran. Vol II, III · first at C4.39

Shirinشیرینshee-REENPeople

Khosrow Parviz's beloved queen, who poisons herself at his tomb after Shiruyeh's advances. Vol III · first at E6.48

Shirkhunشیرخونsheer-KHOONPeople

A guide chosen by Zal to lead Bahman along the hunting road. Vol II · first at C8.7

Shir-khvanشیرخوانsheer-KHAHNPlaces

A place Fereydoon passes on his way to Damavand with Zahhak. Vol I · first at A5.9

Shiruyaشیرویshee-roo-YAHPeople

A grandson of Giv, of Bijan's line. Vol II · first at C5.17

Shiruyehشیرویهshee-roo-YEHPeople

Son of Khosrow Parviz, secretly named Qobad, who takes the throne from his imprisoned father and reigns only seven months. Vol III · first at E6.52

Shirviyehشیرویsheer-VEEPeople

An Iranian champion of Manuchehr’s reign. Vol I · first at A6.15

Son of Bahram, a commander of Anooshirvan, left in charge of the conquered lands of Rum to collect Caesar's tribute. Vol III · first at D13.11

Shirzadشیرزادsheer-ZAHDPeople

A herald who cries Anooshirvan's orders through the camp. Vol III · first at D13.11

Shirzilشیرزیلsheer-ZEELPeople

One of the warriors Khosrow Parviz chooses for battle. Vol III · first at E6.25

shizشیزSHEEZObjects

The chaste tree, whose hard black wood was prized for bows (kamān-e shiz) and for inlay; ‘shiz-wood’ also stands for a deep, somber black. Vol I · first at B12.7

The chaste tree, whose hard black wood was prized for bows (kamān-e shiz) and for inlay; 'shiz-wood' also stands for a deep, sombre black. Vol II · first at C9.8

The chaste tree, whose hard black wood was prized for bows (kamān-e shiz) and for inlay; 'shiz-wood' also stands for a deep, somber black. Vol III · first at E7.5

Shobae Moghirehشعبهٔ مغیرهsho-BA-eh mo-ghee-REHPeople

Sa'ad's envoy to Rostam, who calls on him to accept the Faith and brings back his defiance. Vol III · first at E10.3

Shulakشولکshoo-LAKObjects

A horse ridden by Goshtasb and later by Esfandiyar. Vol II · first at C6.19

Shurabشورابshoo-RAHBPlaces

A strong fortress in Rum, founded in deep water, which Anooshirvan's army reaches. Vol III · first at D13.12

Shushtarشوشترshoosh-TARPlaces

A city of Khuzestan known for its textiles. Vol I, III · first at B14.28

Siamakسیامکsee-yah-MAKPeople

Son of Kioumars, killed by the Black Div. Vol I · first at A1.1

A Turanian champion killed by Guraza in the combat of the chosen champions. Vol II · first at C3.28

Siavashسیاوشsee-yah-VASHPeople

Son of Kay Kavus, who passed through fire to prove his innocence and was murdered in Turan. Vol I · first at B6.9

Son of Kavus, who passed through fire to prove his innocence and was murdered in Turan. Vol II · first at C1.6

(1) Son of Kavus, the innocent prince slain in Turan, invoked as a byword. (2) Father of Bahram, the warrior who pursues Khosrow Parviz for Bahram Chubin. Vol III · first at E5.6

Siavash-Gardسیاوش‌گردsee-yah-vash-GARDPlaces

The city Siavash builds in Turan. Vol I, II · first at B9.42

Simah Barzinسیماه برزینsee-MAH bar-ZEENPeople

A wise and loyal chief of Anooshirvan's, whom Hormizd destroys by guile. Vol III · first at E5.2

Simakسماکse-MAHKTerms

A bright star (Spica or Arcturus), a byword for the highest heavens. Vol I · first at A7.3

Simorghسیمرغsee-MORGHTerms

The wise and wondrous bird of Mount Alborz who raises the infant Zal and later guides Rostam’s birth. Vol I · first at A7.2

The wise and wondrous bird of Mount Alborz who raises the infant Zal and later guides Rostam's birth. Vol II, III · first at C2.11

Simorgh (slain by Esfandiyar)سیمرغsee-MORGHPeople

A monstrous mountain bird that carries off elephants and leopards; Esfandiyar slays it in his Seven Stages. Vol II · first at C7.2

Sindرود سندSENDPlaces

The river Sind (compare Indus, the land of its valley). Vol I, II · first at A0.12

The land of the river Sind (Indus) on the borders of Hind, whose king rides with Bahram Goor. Vol III · first at D10.26

Sindokhtسیندختseen-DOKHTPeople

Mehrab’s wife, mother of Rudabeh. Vol I · first at A8.2

Sipahramسپهرمse-pah-RAMPeople

A Turanian commander defeated by Siavash. Vol I · first at B9.16

A Turanian commander, Afrasiab's kinsman, defeated by Siavash and later killed by Hajir. Vol II · first at C3.6

Sipanjabسپیجابse-pee-JAHBPlaces

A city of Turan (Isfijab). Vol I · first at B2.1

Sistanسیستانsee-STAHNPlaces

The south-eastern land of Zal and Rostam, also called Zabul, Zabulistan and Nimruz. Vol I, II · first at A7.4

sitirستیرse-TEERTerms

A unit of weight (about 26 grams). Vol I · first at B13.29

SituhستوهSEE-toohPeople

A sorcerer, scout and spy who goes to gather news of Iran for the Turanian court. Vol II · first at C6.25

Siyah Chashmسیاه‌چشمsee-YAH CHASHMPeople

Farrokhzad's handsome slave, who courts a serving maid and is imprisoned, then freed. Vol III · first at E9.6

Sofryeسوفزایsof-RAYPeople

A seasoned marzban from Shiraz, of Gharan's line, who avenges Pirooz on Khoshnavaz and rules in all but name under Qobad until he is put to death. Vol III · first at D11.4.2

Sohrabسهرابsoh-RAHBPeople

Son of Rostam and Tahmineh, killed unknowingly by his father. Vol I, II · first at B8.1

Sooragسورگsoo-RAHGPeople

A champion of Hind, whom Iskandar sets on the throne after Foor. Vol II · first at D5.15

Sorkhabسرخابsor-KHAHBPeople

A renowned man of Pars whom Pirooz sets beside Balawsh as minister. Vol III · first at D11.3.2

Soroushسروشso-ROOSHTerms

The angel who brings Izad’s messages and warnings to kings. Vol I · first at A1.1

The angel who brings Izad's messages and warnings to kings. Vol II · first at C1.4

(1) The angel who brings Izad's messages and warnings to kings. (2) An Indian sage and astrologer at Yazdegard's court who reads the stars at Bahram Goor's birth. Vol III · first at D9.2

Sudabehسودابهsoo-dah-BEHPeople

Daughter of the king of Hamavaran and wife of Kavus, who desires Siavash. Vol I · first at B6.2

SughdسغدSOGHDPlaces

Sogdiana, the land of Samarkand. Vol I, II, III · first at A3.1

Suhaylسهیلso-HAYLTerms

The star Canopus, 'Yemen's star', a byword for radiance. Vol III · first at D10.14

Sukhtaسوختهsookh-TAHObjects

One of Khosrow Parviz's famed treasures. Vol III · first at E7.8

SurسورSOORPlaces

Kingdom ruled by Shammakh, who fights for Kay Khosrow. Vol II · first at C4.2

Suriسوریsoo-REEPeople

Clan name of Mahwi, the warden of Marv who betrays Yazdegard, and of Golbuy. Vol III · first at E10.9

Surkhaسرخهsor-KHEHPeople

Afrasiab’s son, killed in vengeance for Siavash. Vol I · first at B10.6

Sursanسورسانsoor-SAHNPlaces

A town; the name Anooshirvan gives the paradise-like city he builds and settles with captives. Vol III · first at D9.2

SusسوسSOOSPlaces

A kingdom whose king joins Faylaqus of Rum against Darab. Vol II · first at D3.3

Susanakسوسنکsoo-sa-NAKPeople

One of four maidens who sing for Bahram Goor on the hunt. Vol III · first at D10.9

T

Tabakتباکta-BAKPeople

An aged Pahlevan ruling Jahram, who brings his troops to Ardeshir. Vol III · first at D6.8

tabarzinتبرزینta-bar-ZEENObjects

A saddle-axe. Vol I · first at B6.7

tabiraتبیرهta-bee-REHObjects

A war drum. Vol I, II, III · first at A5.9

tābutتابوتtah-BOOTObjects

A coffin. Vol I · first at B12.25

Tahamtanتهمتنta-ham-TANPeople

‘Mighty-bodied’: an epithet of Rostam. Vol I · first at A9.4

'Mighty-bodied': an epithet of Rostam. Vol II · first at C2.15

Tahmaspطهماسپtah-MAHSPPeople

Father of Zav. Vol I, II · first at B1.14

Tahminehتهمینهtah-mee-NEHPeople

Daughter of the king of Samangan, Rostam‘s wife and Sohrab’s mother. Vol I · first at B8.4

Tahmurasطهمورثtah-moo-RASPeople

Son of Hushang; the Div-binder, who forced the Divs to teach writing. Vol I, II · first at A3.1

An early king of Iran, after Kioumars and Hushang, remembered for his just customs and wisdom. Vol III · first at D10.1

Taifطائفtah-EEFPlaces

An Arabian town whose rich goods are counted among royal treasures. Vol III · first at E10.7

Tairطایرtah-EERPeople

The Ghassanid Arab chief who carries off Nusha and is beheaded by Shapur. Vol III · first at D8.1.2

Talaqanطالقانtah-lah-GAHNPlaces

A district of Khorasan from which Saveh's host spreads to the borders of Herat. Vol III · first at E5.4

Talhamanطلحمنtal-ha-MAHNPeople

A nobleman who comes with Khuzan to meet Kay Khosrow in Sughd. Vol II · first at C4.39

Talikanطالقانtah-le-GHAHNPlaces

A town of Khorasan. Vol I, II · first at B9.16

Talimanتلیمنtah-lee-MAHNPeople

A commander at the war over Iraj (A6.19) and in Nohzar’s war. Vol I · first at A6.19

Talkhandطلخندtal-KHANDPeople

An Indian prince, Gav's younger brother and rival for the throne, whose death in battle is told through the game of chess. Vol III · first at E2.2

Tammishehتمیشهta-mee-SHEHPlaces

The forested seat of Fereydoon. Vol I · first at A6.1

tanburتنبورtan-BOORObjects

A long-necked lute. Vol I, II · first at B5.4

Taqdisتقدیسtaq-DEESObjects

The great throne raised by Khosrow and set in the hippodrome. Vol III · first at E7.5

Tarakترکta-RAHKPlaces

A place on the Turan frontier, fixed as a boundary by Bahram. Vol III · first at D11.3.3

Tarazطرازta-RAHZPlaces

A city of Turan famed for beautiful people. Vol I, II, III · first at B8.3

Tarmezترمذtar-MEZPlaces

A city on the Oxus. Vol I · first at B9.17

Tavabaتوباta-vah-BAHPeople

A noble house under Kay Khosrow. Vol I · first at B11.5

Taynushطینوشtay-NOOSHPeople

Son of Queen Kaydafa and brother of Qaydrush, a headstrong prince who meets Iskandar. Vol II · first at D5.21

Caesar's envoy to Yazdegard, who wins Bahram Goor's release from his father's court. Vol III · first at D9.6

Tazhavتژاوta-ZHAHVPeople

A Turanian commander, whose beloved is Espanoye. Vol I · first at B11.6

Taziتازیtah-ZEETerms

Arab; Arabian (of horses and of Zahhak’s line). Vol I · first at A8.1

Arab; Arabian (of horses and of Zahhak's line). Vol II · first at D5.32

Thara to Thurayyaثری تا ثریاsa-RAH, so-ray-YAHTerms

‘From the earth to the Pleiades’: from the lowest depth to the highest height. Vol I · first at A9.4

theriacتریاکtir-YAHKObjects

An antidote to poison. Vol I · first at A8.10

TigrisدجلهTY-grisPlaces

The great river beside Tisfoon, crossed by a narrow bridge and later the camp of the rebels against the king. Vol III · first at D8.1.1

TirتیرTEERTerms

The planet Mercury. Vol II · first at C2.1

The fourth month of the Persian year, in early summer. Vol III · first at E7.5

Tirmidترمدteer-MEEDPlaces

Termez, a town on the Oxus. Vol II, III · first at C3.20

Tisfoonطیسفونtees-FOONPlaces

Ctesiphon, the royal capital of the Sasanian kings. Vol III · first at D6.16

TizتیزTEEZPlaces

A port town on the coast of Makran. Vol II · first at C4.35

Tobargتبرگto-BARGPeople

A Turkish commander who pursues the Iranian train and is unhorsed by Bahram Chubin's sister. Vol III · first at E6.40

Toghriطغریtogh-REEObjects

A prized hunting hawk sent to the Shah by the Khan of Chin, lost and found again. Vol III · first at D10.13

Tokhvarتخوارtokh-VAHRPeople

Forood’s counselor, who knows the Iranian champions by sight. Vol I · first at B12.3

Towragتورغtow-RAGPeople

A Turanian noble who welcomes Zangeh to Afrasiab’s court. Vol I · first at B9.29

A Turanian noble who welcomes Zangeh to Afrasiab's court. Vol II · first at C4.10

Tukharتخوارtoo-KHAHRPeople

King of Dehestan, son of Dashma, an Iranian commander under Kay Khosrow. Vol II · first at C4.2

(1) A loyal follower of Khosrow Parviz who guards his flight and carries his letter to Caesar. (2) A commander who frees Shiruyeh from prison when the nobles turn against Khosrow. Vol III · first at E6.7

TurتورTOORPeople

Fereydoon’s second son, ruler of Turan and Chin; a murderer of Iraj. Vol I · first at A6.6

Fereydoon's second son, ruler of Turan and Chin; a murderer of Iraj. Vol II, III · first at C2.4

Turanتورانtoo-RAHNPlaces

The land of Tur beyond the Oxus, ruled by Afrasiab. Vol I, II, III · first at A0.12

TurkترکTORKPlaces

The people of Turan (also ‘Turkish’); Turkistan is their land. Vol I · first at A6.8

The people of Turan (also 'Turkish'); Turkistan is their land. Vol II, III · first at C1.5

Turkistanترکستانtur-kees-TAHNPlaces

The land of the Turks, beyond the Jihun. Vol I, II, III · first at B14.14

Turk-Khanترخانtork-KHAHNPeople

The Khan of the Turks, a Turanian chief under Kuhram who kills Nush Azar and is cut in two by Bahman. Vol II · first at C7.11

The Khan of the Turks; the Pahlevan Bijan of Samarkand is of Turk-Khan's line. Vol III · first at E10.9

TusتوسTOOSPeople

Son of Nohzar, commander of the Iranian army. Vol I · first at A0.12

Son of Nohzar, commander of the Iranian army; lost in the snow after Kay Khosrow's departure. Vol II · first at C1.4

(1) A city of Khorasan near Nishapur. (2) Son of Nohzar, the old Iranian commander, named once among the heroes of the past. Vol III · first at D9.6

tutiyaتوتیاtoo-tee-YAHTerms

A fine powder of zinc oxide used as a healing salve for the eyes. Vol II · first at C7.7

Tuziتوزیtoo-ZEEObjects

Fine linen from the town of Tuz. Vol I · first at B7.3

Covered with tuz, the bark of the white poplar or birch, stretched over saddles and bows. Vol II · first at C3.38

U

Uladاولادoo-LAHDPeople

A march-lord of Mazandaran who guides Rostam to the White Div. Vol I · first at B5.5

Umarعمرo-MARPeople

A companion of the Prophet, praised in the prelude for giving Islam glory. Vol I · first at A0.7

The Arab caliph who sends Sa'ad Wakkas against Yazdegard. Vol III · first at E10.2

Ustukilaاستقیلاoos-too-KEE-lahPeople

A Turanian warrior who challenges Kay Khosrow and is thrown from the saddle by his spear. Vol II · first at C4.10

V

Varazadورازادva-rah-ZAHDPeople

King of Sipanjab, killed by Faramarz. Vol I · first at B10.5

Visagardویسه‌گردvee-sah-GARDPlaces

A town in the Balkh and Tirmid country, among the lands Kay Khosrow grants away. Vol II · first at C3.5

A town near Tirmid which the king of Chaghan demands, with Tirmid, as his fee for lending troops to Pirooz. Vol III · first at D11.2

Visehویسهvee-SEHPeople

A Turanian commander, father of Piran. Vol I, II · first at B1.2

W

WahrوهرVAHRPlaces

A land sending troops to the Khan. Vol I · first at B13.27

Wakkasوقاصwak-KAHSPeople

Father of Sa'ad, the Arab commander Umar sends against Yazdegard. Vol III · first at E10.2

Warighوریغwah-REEGHPlaces

A city of Rum famed for its cross and hospital, near a hermitage visited by Khosrow Parviz. Vol III · first at E6.13

Wasiوصیva-SEETerms

‘The Executor’: Ali, heir to the Prophet’s charge. Vol I · first at A0.7

White Divدیو سپیدDEEV-e se-PEEDPeople

The Div lord of Mazandaran, killed by Rostam in the seventh trial. Vol I, II · first at B4.3

Y

Yabghuیبغوyab-GHOOTerms

A Turkish royal title; here the Turanian royal line. Vol II · first at C6.8

yadgarیادگارyahd-GAHRTerms

A keepsake. Vol I · first at A6.16

Yajuj and Majujیأجوجyah-JOOJPlaces

Gog: with Majuj (Magog), the savage people Iskandar shuts out behind his wall. Vol II · first at D5.30

Yalan-sinaیلان‌سینهya-LAHN see-NAHPeople

One of Bahram Chubin's chief commanders and counselors, who later gives Gurdiyeh in marriage. Vol III · first at E5.6

Yanusیانسyah-NOOSPeople

Young brother of the captured Caesar, who leads the Roman army against Shapur and is routed. Vol III · first at D8.1.8

Yava Simkanیاوه سیمگانYAH-vahPeople

An Iranian warrior who rides behind Giv in the Great War. Vol II · first at C4.2

Yazdanیزدانyaz-DAHNTerms

God, the Creator. Vol I, II, III · first at A0.7

Yazdegardیزدگردyaz-de-GARDPeople

Name of three Sasanian kings, each with his own entry, and of a royal scribe. Vol III · first at D8.4

Yazdegard (son of Bahram Goor)یزدگردyaz-de-GARDPeople

Gathers the scattered army, rules justly eighteen years, and leaves the crown to Hormizd over his elder son Pirooz. Vol III · first at D10.36

Yazdegard (son of Shapur)یزدگردyaz-de-GARDPeople

Father of Bahram Goor, a harsh king who rules by terror and is killed by a horse that rises from the spring of Sav. Vol III · first at D8.4

Yazdegard (the last king)یزدگردyaz-de-GARDPeople

The last Sasanian king, crowned in Sapandarmad on the day of Ard; he is killed at Mahwi Suri's command. Vol III · first at E10.1

YemenیمنYA-manPlaces

Sarv’s kingdom, also famed for Canopus and its agate. Vol I · first at A6.2

Sarv's kingdom, also famed for Canopus and its agate. Vol II · first at C2.2

An Arabian kingdom famed for its Canopus (Suhayl) star and its cloths and blades, where King Monzer raises the young Bahram Goor. Vol III · first at D8.1.2

Z

zabarjadزبرجدza-bar-JADTerms

Chrysolite, a green gemstone. Vol I, II, III · first at A6.15

Zabulزابلzah-BOOLPlaces

Rostam's homeland in the southeast, ruled by the house of Sam and Zal. Vol II · first at C1.2

The land in the southeast, also called Zabulistan, homeland of the ancient champion Rostam. Vol III · first at D6.1

Zadeshmزادشمzahd-SHAMPeople

Father of Pashang and grandfather of Afrasiab. Vol I, II · first at B1.2

Zad Farrokhزادفرخzahd far-ROKHPeople

A courtier who controls access to the king and, with Tukhar, frees Shiruyeh to rise against Khosrow Parviz. Vol III · first at E6.11

Zahhakضحاکzah-HAHKPeople

The Arab usurper from whose shoulders grew two serpents fed on human brains; overthrown by Fereydoon and bound on Damavand. Vol I, II · first at A4.2

The Arab tyrant of old, under whose hand Jamshid fell, and who was stripped of crown and name by Fereydoon. Vol III · first at D6.1

Zahirزهیرza-HEERPeople

A fierce chief of the desert Arabs in Kay Khosrow's host. Vol II · first at C4.2

ZalزالZAHLPeople

Son of Sahm, born white-haired, raised by the Simorgh; also called Dastan and Zal-e-Zar. Father of Rostam. Vol I · first at A7.3

Son of Sahm, born white-haired, raised by the Simorgh; also called Dastan and Zal-e-Zar. Father of Rostam; outlives him and is put in chains by Bahman. Vol II · first at C1.2

Son of Sahm and father of Rostam, named among the great heroes of old. Vol III · first at E8.2

Zal-e-Zarزال زرZAHL-e ZARPeople

Another name for Zal: ‘Zal the golden.’. Vol I · first at A7.3

ZamزمZAMPlaces

A town on the Oxus crossing. Vol I, II, III · first at B10.29

zamehrirزمهریرza-meh-REERTerms

Bitter, freezing cold. Vol I · first at B13.10

Zand-Avestaزند و استاzand-a-VES-tahTerms

The holy scripture of Zardosht's faith, with its commentary. The text also has 'Zand'. Vol II · first at C4.3

The holy scripture of Zardosht's faith, with its commentary. Vol III · first at D6.8

zangزنگZANGObjects

A bell. Vol I, II · first at B12.12

Zangehزنگهzan-GEHPeople

Zangeh of Shavaran, an Iranian champion. Vol I, II · first at B5.10

Zangiزنگیzan-GEETerms

An East African; in the poem’s imagery, a byword for blackness. Vol I · first at B10.35

An East African; in the poem's imagery, a byword for blackness. Vol II · first at C2.1

Zangulaزنگلهzan-goo-LAHPeople

A Turanian champion slain by Foruhil in the duels of the Great War. Vol II · first at C3.6

Zangwiزنگویzang-VEEPeople

A brave Iranian warrior, companion of Khosrow Parviz. Vol III · first at E6.25

zanharزنهارzen-HAHRTerms

Quarter; a pledge of protection given to a defeated enemy. Vol I · first at B8.10

Zaraspزراسپza-RAHSPPeople

Son of Tus, killed by Forood. Vol I · first at A7.4

Kay Khosrow's treasurer; the house of Zarasp is also named among the Iranian nobles. Vol II · first at C4.2

An official Anooshirvan dismisses for failing to open the treasuries to the needy. Vol III · first at E3.3

Zardoshtزردشتzar-DOSHTPeople

The prophet whose faith Goshtasb adopts and who brings the Zand-Avesta. Vol II · first at C4.46

(1) The prophet whose faith Goshtasb adopts and who brings the Zand-Avesta. (2) Hormizd's High Mobad, who visits the imprisoned Izad Gashasp and is poisoned on the Shah's order. Vol III · first at D10.1

Zarirزریرza-REERPeople

Son of Lohrasp and brother of Goshtasb, a great champion slain in the war with Arjasp. Vol II · first at C5.2

Zariranزریرانza-ree-RAHNPeople

A noble Iranian house whose chiefs fight in Kay Khosrow's host. Vol II · first at C4.2

ZarkزرقZARKPlaces

The place with a mill and whirlpool where Yazdegard hides and is killed. Vol III · first at E10.9

Zarnushزرنوشzar-NOOSHPlaces

A fair city Dara builds, to the delight of the folk of Ahvaz. Vol II · first at D4.1

Zarvanزروانzar-VAHNPeople

An aged chamberlain at Anooshirvan's court who plots with a Jew to destroy Mahbud. Vol III · first at E1.1

ZavزوZOWPeople

Son of Tahmasp, who ruled Iran after Nohzar. Vol I, II · first at B1.14

Zavarehزوارهza-vah-REHPeople

Rostam’s brother. Vol I · first at B6.6

Rostam's brother, killed with him in Shaghad's pit. Vol II · first at C2.16

Zavehزاوهzah-VEHPlaces

A mountain. Vol I · first at B1.5

zerehزرهze-REHObjects

A coat of mail. Vol II · first at C6.30

Zereh's seaزرهze-REHPlaces

The sea Afrasiab crosses in his flight and Kay Khosrow crosses in pursuit. Vol II · first at C4.31

Zhendeh Razmژنده رزمzhen-DEH RAZMPeople

Tahmineh’s brother, sent with Sohrab, killed by Rostam. Vol I · first at B8.15

zhupinژوپینzhoo-PEENObjects

A short throwing spear. Vol I · first at B8.14

Zib-e-Khosrowزیب خسروzee-be-khos-ROWPlaces

The splendid city Anooshirvan has built in the likeness of Antakiya, named by his nobles. Vol III · first at D13.14

zijزیجZEEJTerms

Astronomical tables used to cast horoscopes. Vol I · first at A8.17

Zirakزیرکzee-RAKPeople

The Mobad who interprets Zahhak’s dream. Vol I · first at A5.2

zirbaزیرباzeer-BAHTerms

A rich stew of meat and vinegar, fit for a king. Vol III · first at D10.12

Zoroasterزردشتzo-ro-AS-terPeople

The prophet of the ancient Iranian faith. Vol III · first at D8.1.2

Zul-Aktafذوالاکتافzol-ak-TAHFPeople

'Lord of the Shoulders', the Arabs' name for Shapur, who tore out their captives' shoulder blades. Vol III · first at D8.1.3

zunnarزنارzon-NAHRTerms

A girdle or sacred cord worn round the waist. Vol I · first at B9.54

ZurزورZOORPlaces

A place Ardeshir marches toward after settling Pars. Vol III · first at D6.16