Festival of Bahman (Vohu Manah - Good Mind) on Bahman 2, celebrating good thought and wisdom. Bahman was the first Amesha Spenta to be created.
Origin
Zoroastrian; celebration of day-month name coincidence in Bahman
Historical Context
Bahmanagan is celebrated on the 2nd of Bahman month. The Bahman Yasht in the Avesta is dedicated to praising this Amesha Spenta. In Zoroastrian teachings, the triad of 'Good Thought, Good Word, Good Deed' is the foundation of ethics, and Bahman represents the first part.
Traditions
Abstaining from Meat: Eating vegetarian food on this day
Kindness to Animals: Being kind to beneficial animals
Prayers: Reciting Bahman Yasht
Good Thinking: Contemplating pure thoughts
Symbols & Meanings
Beneficial Animals: Symbol of Bahman Amesha Spenta
White Color: Symbol of purity of thought
Plants: Symbol of abstaining from harming creatures
Fun Facts
Bahman comes from Avestan 'Vohu Manah' meaning 'Good Mind.' This Amesha Spenta was the first creation of Ahura Mazda and closest to Him. Bahman is the guardian of beneficial animals. On this day, Zoroastrians would abstain from meat and eat vegetarian food.
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