Bahman is a modern Persian name derived from the Avestan 𐬬𐬊𐬵𐬎 𐬨𐬀𐬥𐬀𐬵 (Vohu Manah), meaning "good mind". In Zoroastrianism, Vohu Manah is one of the six Amesha Spenta (Holy Immortals), representing the divine attribute of good purpose and associated with the protection of domestic animals. The name Bahman gained currency as a personal name in Persian-speaking regions, and it also designates the eleventh month of the Solar Hijri calendar, the official calendar of Iran and Afghanistan. The month Bahman has thirty days, roughly corresponding to January-February in the Gregorian calendar. Etymology and Origins The name originates from the Avestan compound Vohu Manah, broken down as vohu (from Proto-Indo-European *ves, meaning "to revere" or "to stand in awe of") and manah (related to Sanskrit manas, meaning "mind, spirit, consciousness"). The combined concept refers to the pure intellect or benevolent disposition that aligns with divine will. In modern Persian, the word bahman also acquired the secular meaning of "snow avalanche", reflecting seasonal phenomena of its corresponding winter month. Cultural and Religious Significance In Zoroastrian scripture, Vohu Manah is the second of the seven Amesha Spenta created by Ahura Mazda. He is believed to dwell in Paradise, welcoming the souls of the righteous after death. Devotees invoke Bahman for wisdom and discernment. The association with domestic animals is evident in Āfrīnagān festivals where blessings are sought for livestock. During the month of Bahman, Zoroastrians often recite prayers dedicated to the Amesha Spenta of Good Mind. Notable Bearers and Annual Observances Notable historical individuals named Bahman include Bahman Beg?, Safavid-era Qizilbash leaders, and Bahman Jaduyi, a self-made mystic. In the Iranian calendar, the second day of the month Bahman marks the Behmanrooz observance. The day is also linked to events like the 1924 Winter Olympics opening at Chamonix on 4 Bahman 1302 SH. Variants and Related Names Related names include Vohu Manah, the original Avestan form from Persian mythology. Variants are rare outside Iran, though Iraqi and Afghan communities occasionally use the Persian name Bahramion in derivative forms. Meaning: Good mind Origin: Avestan via Persian Type: Masculine given name Usage regions: Iran, Afghanistan, Tajikistan