Dahaka : The Three Headed One

Dahaka

Introduction

Aži Dahāka, also known as Zahhak, is a central figure in Persian mythology, representing tyranny and destruction. His origins trace back to the Avesta, the sacred texts of Zoroastrianism, where he is depicted as a monstrous being. Zahhak’s rise to power is marked by deceit, leading to a brutal reign that brings suffering to his people. However, his rule eventually comes to an end when the hero Fereydun overthrows him and confines him to prevent further chaos.

Physical Traits

Dahaka’s appearance varies across different accounts, but he is consistently depicted as a terrifying embodiment of destruction. In Zoroastrian texts, he is described as a three-headed, six-eyed, dragon-like creature with venomous breath capable of spreading chaos. Some versions add that his blood gives rise to snakes, scorpions, and other vile creatures, reinforcing his monstrous nature.

In later retellings, particularly in Ferdowsi’s Shahnameh, Zahhak takes on a more human form but remains deeply corrupted. After being deceived by Ahriman, he develops two serpents on his shoulders that can never be removed and must be fed human brains daily. This transformation serves as a chilling metaphor for his tyranny and insatiable evil.

Family

Dahaka’s origins are deeply rooted in myth, with variations across different texts. In Zoroastrian tradition, he is depicted as the offspring of Angra Mainyu (Ahriman), the embodiment of evil and chaos, reinforcing his role as an agent of destruction. Some later sources add that his mother, Wadag (or Ōdag), was a great sinner who engaged in incest with him, further emphasizing his corruption.

In Shahnameh, however, Zahhak starts as the son of Merdās, a noble ruler, before being seduced by Ahriman’s influence and transformed into a monstrous tyrant. This version highlights his descent into evil rather than an inherent demonic nature. Additionally, references to his symbolic “descendants” as the sons of the dragon further solidify his connection to serpentine and malevolent forces.

Other names

Dahaka’s origins are deeply rooted in myth, with variations across different texts. In Zoroastrian tradition, he is depicted as the offspring of Angra Mainyu (Ahriman), the embodiment of evil and chaos, reinforcing his role as an agent of destruction. Some later sources add that his mother, Wadag (or Ōdag), was a great sinner who engaged in incest with him, further emphasizing his corruption.

In Shahnameh, however, Zahhak starts as the son of Merdās, a noble ruler, before being seduced by Ahriman’s influence and transformed into a monstrous tyrant. This version highlights his descent into evil rather than an inherent demonic nature. Additionally, references to his symbolic “descendants” as the sons of the dragon further solidify his connection to serpentine and malevolent forces.

Powers and Abilities

The Aigamuxa is infamous for its ferocity and insatiable hunger for human flesh. Its elongated, razor-sharp teeth make it a formidable predator, capable of tearing through its victims with ease. Despite the unusual placement of its eyes, the creature possesses extraordinary speed and strength, often outrunning even the swiftest horses. Some believe its inverted eyesight offers a strategic advantage, allowing it to detect threats from all directions. However, this adaptation also creates a weakness—when in pursuit, the Aigamuxa must pause and tilt its feet upward to see clearly, leaving it momentarily vulnerable.

In addition to its raw physical power, the Aigamuxa is said to have exceptional night vision, enabling it to stalk prey with precision in complete darkness. Some legends even attribute it with the ability to turn invisible, making it an even more elusive and terrifying force in the wilderness.

Modern Day Influence

The legend of Aži Dahāka has left a profound mark on Persian culture and beyond. In Shahnameh, he is portrayed as a ruthless tyrant whose defeat by the hero Feridun symbolizes the triumph of good over evil—an enduring theme in Persian storytelling. His influence extends far beyond classical literature, shaping modern interpretations of monstrous villains.

Dahaka’s presence can be found in various forms of media, from literature and comics to films and video games. He appears as a menacing antagonist in Prince of Persia: Warrior Within and as a supernatural adversary in the Xena and Hercules series. His myth has also inspired creatures and villains in role-playing games and fantasy settings, cementing his status as a timeless symbol of darkness and destruction.

Source

Boyce, Mary. Zoroastrians: Their Religious Beliefs and Practices. Routledge, 2001.

Ferdowsi, Abolqasem. Shahnameh: The Persian Book of Kings. Translated by Dick Davis, Penguin Classics, 2006.

Rose, Jenny. Zoroastrianism: An Introduction. I.B. Tauris, 2011.

Encyclopædia Iranica: Azhi Dahaka

Britannica: Zahhak

Mythology.net: Zahhak

Ancient History Encyclopedia: Zahhak

World History Encyclopedia: Zahhak