Rashn

Rashn is the modern Persian form of Rashnu, derived from the Avestan 𐬭𐬀𐬱𐬥𐬎 (Rašnu), meaning "just, straight." In Zoroastrianism, Rashnu is a yazata (divine being) who, together with Mithra and Sraosha, judges the souls of the dead after death. His standard epithet is "the straightest," reflecting his role as the embodiment of justice and truth.

Role in Zoroastrianism

In Zoroastrian cosmology, Rashnu is one of the three judges of the soul, weighing the deeds of the deceased at the Chinvat Bridge, the passage between the worlds of the living and the dead. According to the Bundahishn, a Zoroastrian creation text completed in the 11th or 12th century, Rashnu (Middle Persian: Rashn) serves as an assistant of the Amesha Spenta Ameretat (Amurdad), the yazata of immortality. A passage describes him as the essence of truth (asha) that prevents daevas (demonic entities) from destroying material creation: Rashnu adjudges even the souls of men and women as to bad deeds and good deeds. ... Rashnu shall not see thither the rank of the judge who delivers false judgment. (GBd xxvi.116-117).

In Later Texts

The Avestan Dahman Afrin also mentions Rashnu, emphasizing his function as a guardian of justice. In Persian literature and tradition, Rashn (or Rashnu) continues to be venerated as a symbol of righteousness, with his name occasionally used as a given name. The associated theophoric names reflect the cultural significance of justice in Zoroastrian belief.

Notable Bearers

While historical bearers of the name Rashn are not extensively recorded in secular contexts, the name appears in religious texts and later Iranian naming traditions. As a modern Persian name, it revives an ancient Avestan figure, linking children to a heritage of moral integrity and spiritual justice.

• Meaning: "just, straight"
• Origin: Avestan, via Persian
• Type: Religious (Zoroastrian yazata)
• Usage Regions: Iran, Zoroastrian diaspora
• Related Names: Rashnu (variant)