In ancient Persian mythology, when Ahura Mazda, the Lord of Light, created the physical world, he planted a sacred and magical tree at the heart of the mythical Vourukasha Ocean. This tree, known as Gaokerena, contained the essence of every plant on Earth. It was believed that anyone who consumed its fruit or sap would gain immortality and the power to heal all diseases, making it the ultimate symbol of life itself.
Knowing the tree’s significance, Ahriman, the spirit of darkness, sought to destroy it and turn the world into a barren wasteland. Unable to touch the sacred tree directly, he created a giant poisonous frog called Khrafstra and sent it into the ocean. The frog’s mission was to gnaw at the roots of Gaokerena, intending to wither it and sever the source of life for all creatures.
To protect this divine tree, Ahura Mazda created loyal guardians. Ten Kara fish swam tirelessly around its roots, their eyes sharp enough to spot the tiniest needle in the deepest waters. Their duty was to watch for the deadly frog and prevent it from harming the roots. Additionally, a colossal three-legged donkey called Khara, with six eyes, nine mouths, and a golden horn, stood in the waters around the tree. Its loud cries repelled evil, and its presence kept the surrounding waters pure.
The connection between Gaokerena and the natural world was maintained by the legendary bird Simurgh, which nested atop the tree or a nearby Saena tree. When Simurgh flapped its wings, countless seeds fell from the branches into the ocean. The rain god then collected these seeds and spread them across the continents through rainfall, allowing new plants to grow everywhere, ensuring the continued cycle of life.
In Persian eschatology, Gaokerena plays a central role in the end times. When the savior Saoshyant appears to purify the world, a potion of immortality will be made from its sap. Those who drink it will gain eternal life in a world free from suffering, symbolizing hope, renewal, and the ultimate triumph of goodness.
This myth carries enduring lessons and symbols. Life endures despite the constant threat of evil, showing that even the most sacred things are protected by vigilant guardians. Gaokerena illustrates the interconnectedness of the universe, linking sea, sky, and land in a harmonious ecosystem. Above all, the tree symbolizes rebirth and the promise of a new beginning, reminding humanity that life will always find a way to flourish, even after destruction.