Page:History of Zoroastrianism.djvu/196

Rh Their attributes. The Amesha Spentas are the ever-living and the ever-helping ones; they are the wise ones, and good rulers. It is they that are the shining ones, of efficacious eyes, exalted, mighty, valiant, imperishable, and righteous. They are the makers, rulers, fashioners, guardians, protectors, and preservers of the creation of Mazda, and Mazda has given them beautiful forms.

Their work. The archangels hold their celestial councils on the heights of the heavens. From there they come down to the seven zones into which the world was divided according to the Avesta, and rule over the realms of earth. They are naturally invited to the sacrifice, and offerings are placed by the devout for them to accept. The faithful pray that the Amesha Spentas may visit and enjoy sacrifices in their houses, for shining is the path by which they descend to earth to receive the libations offered in their honour. Even Mithra as a Godlike embodiment sacrificed unto them, and for him they have made a dwelling. They are of one accord with the sun; and they gather together the light of the moon and pour it down upon the earth. They are the divine ones who help in bringing about the final restoration of the world. Each of them will smite his opponent at the time of the resurrection.

Zarathushtra the first among mortals to sacrifice unto the Amesha Spentas. Mazda asks his prophet to invoke the Amesha Spentas, even though he could not behold them with his eyes. Zarathushtra follows Mazda's behests; and he is the first man to invoke them, a spiritual predecessor having been Sraosha. For that reason the faithful sacrifice unto the Amesha Spentas with love and joy, and pray to them for help and protection. Their praise and sacrifice form one of the cardinal articles of