Zāl

Rudaba

Zāl was a legendary Persian hero and warrior, featured prominently in the Shahnameh, the national epic of Greater Iran. He was the son of Sām and the father of the famous hero Rostam. Zāl is often depicted with his distinctive white hair, which he had from birth, earning him the nickname "Zāl the White".

Early Life

Zāl was born to Sām, a nobleman of the Sistan region. However, due to his unusual white hair, Sām believed his son was cursed and abandoned him on the slopes of the Alborz Mountains. The mythical bird Simurgh found the infant Zāl and raised him as her own.

Return to Human Society

As Zāl grew older, the Simurgh, realizing that Zāl belonged with his own kind, returned him to his father. Sām, upon seeing his son’s noble bearing and strength, accepted him back and Zāl was reintegrated into human society. Zāl's return was marked by his exceptional wisdom and strength, which he had gained under the tutelage of the Simurgh.

Marriage and Family

Zāl married Rudaba, the daughter of Mehrab, the king of Kabul. Their union was significant as it united two powerful families. The couple had a son, Rostam, who would go on to become one of the greatest heroes in Persian mythology.

Role in the Shahnameh

In the Shahnameh, Zāl plays a crucial role in several stories. He is depicted as a wise and powerful figure, often providing guidance and support to his son Rostam. Zāl's wisdom and the magical feather given to him by the Simurgh are instrumental in many of Rostam's adventures.

Legacy

Zāl's legacy is deeply embedded in Persian culture and literature. He is celebrated not only for his heroic deeds but also for his wisdom and the unique circumstances of his upbringing. His story is a testament to the themes of redemption, the importance of family, and the interplay between the human and the divine.

See Also

• Shahnameh
• Rostam
• Simurgh
• Sām
• Rudaba
• Greater Iran