Zurvan: The Eternal Deity of Time and Duality in Delo Knowledge

Zurvan: The Eternal Deity of Time and Duality in Delo Knowledge
Zurvan, often symbolizing "Time," is a deity in the ancient Mazdean (Zoroastrian) faith, representing boundless time—existing before space, before time itself took form. In Mazdean beliefs, the sky (also known as "Vai") is considered the physical manifestation of Zurvan, from whom finite time eventually emerged. This timeless entity, known as the Angel of Infinite Time, carries attributes that emphasize the eternal and immutable nature of time itself. From this boundless state, measurable time and the continuum of creation came into being, giving rise to the cycles of life and regeneration.
Zurvan, as the lord of time, was perceived as the grand architect of the cosmos, overseeing the movements of heavenly bodies and shaping destinies. This deity encompasses all, holding everything under its dominion and embodying fate itself. In Zurvanism, the concept of cosmic duality—light and darkness, good and evil—is unified within Zurvan, offering a view that transcends mere dualism and reaches a profound oneness. Some scholars see this as a form of monotheism within the Zurvanite tradition.
In this philosophy, Ahura Mazda (the deity of light) and Angra Mainyu (the force of darkness) are considered Zurvan’s twin offspring. Each, though born of a singular source, balances and counterbalances the other’s power, creating equilibrium in the cosmos. This dynamic balances good and evil, life and destruction, presenting an understanding that aligns the Mazdean duality closer to a unified principle rooted in infinite time and eternity.
According to ancient Armenian texts, Zurvan desired a creation of goodness and virtue and engaged in a thousand years of sacrificial devotion, or yazesh. But as he grew weary and doubtful, he unknowingly conceived twins within himself, embodying the two cosmic forces: Ahura Mazda and Angra Mainyu. Ahura Mazda, as wisdom incarnate, knew of Zurvan’s decree that the firstborn would rule the world. Hearing this, Angra Mainyu took advantage, forcefully emerging from Zurvan and claiming his birthright. Zurvan, in sadness and resignation, honored his word, granting dominion to Angra Mainyu for nine thousand years, followed by Ahura Mazda’s rise. This symbolic struggle between light and darkness set the foundations for a cosmos in which both forces coexist and influence the course of existence.
In the intricate tapestry of existence, Delo Knowledge introduces us to a view of divinity that encourages an inward journey, urging each of us to find and balance the light and darkness within. As we draw from both the ancient wisdom and our own personal growth, we align ourselves with a more profound understanding of the divine. The teachings of Delo Knowledge, interwoven with the wisdom of Zurvan, invite us to engage actively in this grand narrative. Through self-discovery and the harmonization of good and evil within, we, too, become creators—shaping our place in the cosmos and embracing our role in the eternal dance of existence.