The story of the Seven Labors of Rostam, or Haft Khan-e Rostam, is one of the most heroic tales in the Shahnameh. Rostam, Persia’s greatest warrior, undertook this epic journey to rescue King Kay Kavus, who had been captured and blinded by the demons, or Divs, in the magical land of Mazandaran. Mounted on his legendary steed, Rakhsh, Rostam chose the shortest but most dangerous route, facing seven legendary challenges along the way.
The first challenge was the ferocious lion. While Rostam slept to regain his strength, a hungry lion attacked the camp. Rakhsh, intelligent and brave, fought the beast alone, clawing and biting it to death. When Rostam awoke, he was both relieved and scolded his horse for risking its life single-handedly. The second challenge was the scorching desert, where heat melted Rostam’s armor and thirst threatened to overwhelm him. As he prayed for survival, a lone ram appeared and led him to a cool underground spring, saving both hero and horse.
The third challenge was the battle with a massive dragon. While Rostam slept, the dragon, cloaked in magical invisibility, approached. Rakhsh tried to wake him, but only on the third encounter did Rostam strike, aided by Rakhsh biting the dragon’s shoulder, decapitating the beast with his sword. The fourth trial came in the form of a cunning sorceress, who disguised herself as a beautiful maiden in a lush garden full of food and wine. When Rostam invoked the name of God, her true form as an ugly old witch appeared, and he captured and defeated her with a noose.
The fifth challenge involved Olad, a local warrior. Rostam defeated him in combat but, instead of killing him, used his intelligence to convert Olad into a guide, helping navigate the traps and labyrinths leading to the demon lair. The sixth challenge was Arzhang, the demon commander guarding the mountain’s entrance. Rostam charged into the enemy camp with unmatched strength, roaring like thunder and ripping Arzhang apart, terrifying the remaining demons into fleeing.
The final and most perilous task was the battle with the White Demon, Div-e Sepid. Rostam ventured into a pitch-black cave where the demon lord resided. The battle was brutal, blood flowing through the darkness, yet Rostam ultimately overpowered the White Demon, plunging his dagger into its heart and retrieving its magical liver. Using the demon’s blood, he miraculously restored the sight of King Kay Kavus and the Persian warriors, dispelling darkness and evil. The king was saved, and Rostam once again proved himself as the Pillar of Persia.
The Seven Labors of Rostam convey profound lessons. The bond between man and steed emphasizes the deep connection between Rostam and Rakhsh. Strength combined with morality shows that true heroism requires both physical power and intelligence, guided by faith. The journey itself is symbolic of spiritual and moral purification, demonstrating that enduring hardship and overcoming temptations are essential to the making of a true hero.