Jamshid was the fourth king of the Pishdadian dynasty, a ruler blessed with Farr, the divine glory that confirmed his right to rule and marked him as both a king and a teacher of mankind. He declared, “I have been granted the radiance of God; I am both king and guide to humanity,” and began a 300-year reign dedicated to transforming human life.
During his rule, Jamshid made remarkable contributions to civilization. He taught people to forge weapons and craft silk, providing armor, swords, and beautiful clothing. To maintain social order, he divided society into four groups: priests, warriors, farmers, and artisans. He oversaw grand architectural projects, building palaces and public baths with the help of Jinn, and discovered medicines, perfumes, and precious stones from the earth. He also pioneered maritime exploration, constructing ships to connect distant lands.
Jamshid’s power peaked with the creation of a jewel-encrusted throne and the celebration of Nowruz, the New Year, when sunlight on the throne made him shine like a second sun. The legendary Cup of Jam, said to hold the water of immortality, allowed him to see the seven heavens and all that occurred across the world. This symbolized his connection to divine insight and the well-being of his people.
After 300 years of prosperous rule, Jamshid’s pride grew. Believing he alone had created all things, he commanded his ministers to worship him as a god, declaring, “I am the greatest; there is none above me.” The divine Farr left him, taking the form of a bird and flying from his shoulders. Without its guidance, Jamshid’s mind darkened, his people scattered, and nobles rebelled, leaving Persia vulnerable to the rise of the serpent-shouldered tyrant Zahhak.
Jamshid fled for a hundred years across distant lands, but eventually, he was captured by Zahhak’s forces near the China Sea and brutally killed. The golden age of Jamshid ended, giving way to a millennium of darkness under Zahhak’s rule.
This tale highlights the importance of civilization, celebrating Persian innovation, wisdom, and societal development. It teaches that true power is sustained only through humility and gratitude, while hubris leads to downfall. Nowruz remains a living symbol of Jamshid’s glory, reminding Iranians of their proud origins each spring.