History of the Parsis : including their manners, customs, religion and present position : with coloured and other illustrations : in two volumes

136 HISTORY OF THE PARSTS. [CHAP, III.

kindred actions the auspiciousness of this day is witnessed.

“7. The day of Amerdad is the last day of the first week of every Zoroastrian month. This day is set apart as one of rest. On this day a man should be at his ease in body and soul ; on this day he should form an estimate of the income accruing from his accumulated riches, from his cattle, his increase of wealth, from agriculture, his garden, beds of flowers, and forests. Be this day considered as important for working to acquire whatever objects tend towards human security and health, and particularly, by the Mazdayasnan, for calling to mind such of their actions as are imposed upon them as a (religious) duty.

“8. The day of Depadar is the day of the Creator of the Universe. On this day it is fit that the sublime knowledge of the (Zoroastrian) religion be acquired, and that pious people be endowed with charitable gifts and be maintained in delight and prosperity.

“9. On the day of Adar (it is good) to bestow liberal alms upon the diseased, as well as to invoke the help of the Almighty by offering prayers to Him in the sacred places of worship belonging to the Adarans or fire-temples. Hence on this day, too, let numerous offerings be presented to fire-temples, and all solemn intentions for performing deeds of right-

eousness be fulfilled.