Zurvanism - The Zoroastrian Heresy?

Zurvanism - The Zoroastrian Heresy?

From Let's Talk Religion by Filip Holm

February 7, 2026 · 32 min · Episode 155

About this episode

This episode explores Zurvanism, a lesser-known aspect of ancient Zoroastrianism, focusing on its origins, beliefs, and historical significance.

Zurvanism is a lesser-known feature of ancient Zoroastrianism that centers on Zurvan, the god of infinite time, and the cosmic struggle between Ahura Mazda and Angra Mainyu. In this video, we explore the origins, beliefs, and historical influence of Zurvanism, what it is and isn't, and why it matters for understanding ancient Persian religion and dualism. Check out Soul Roots: https://www.youtube.com/@UCX0IxGB0xYS5kV3IX-KbBPQ Find me and my music here: https://linktr.ee/filipholm Support Let's Talk Religion on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/letstalkreligion Or through a one-time donation: https://paypal.me/talkreligiondonate Sources/Recommended Reading: Boyce, Mary (1957). "Some Reflections on Zurvanism". Bulletin of the School of Oriental and African Studies, University of London , 1957, Vol. 19, No. 2 (1957), pp. 304-316. Cambridge University Press. Boyce, Mary (2000). "Zoroastrians: Their Their Religious Beliefs and Practices". Routledge; 2nd edition. Boyce, Mary (1996). "On the Orthodoxy of Sasanian Zoroastrianism". Bulletin of the School of Oriental and African Studies, University of London, 1996, Vol. 59, No. 1 (1996), pp. 11-28. Cambridge University Press. Boyce, Mary…

People in this episode

Host: Filip Holm

Topics covered

  • Zurvanism
  • Zoroastrianism
  • ancient Persian religion
  • dualism
  • Ahura Mazda
  • Angra Mainyu

Keywords

  • Zurvanism
  • Zoroastrianism
  • Ahura Mazda
  • Angra Mainyu
  • Persian religion
  • dualism
  • Mary Boyce

Mentioned in this episode

Books & works: Zurvanism, Zoroastrianism, Some Reflections on Zurvanism, Zoroastrians: Their Their Religious Beliefs and Practices, On the Orthodoxy of Sasanian Zoroastrianism, Some Some Further Reflections on Zurvanism, Zarathustra: Sånger, The Heritage of Zarathushtra: A New Translation of His Gathas

More episodes of Let's Talk Religion

Explore listener stats, chart rankings, contacts and more on the Let's Talk Religion podcast page.