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

CHAP. III.] PRESIDING ANGELS. 151

Se be placed everywhere by Ahura Mazda for guarding against evil powers and keeping the universe in order. The Fravashi or the presiding angel watches not only over the living, but also over the dead and over the still unborn. ‘This day is dedicated to the memory of the dead, and the Parsis repair to the towers of silence to offer prayers for the good of the souls of their departed relations and friends, and oftentimes priests are paid to repeat certain prayers in their behalf, Similar ceremonies in honour of the Frohars are also performed on the 19th day (Fravardin) of the month of Adar.

Avan or Aban Arduisura Jasan.—This festival is held on the 10th day of the eighth month. The angel Arduisura Anahita presides over the sea. The words, however, mean sublime, strong, or spotless. The Parsis, on this day, approach the sea or river, and having lived so long with their Hindu brethren, have borrowed some of their objectionable customs, such as offering sugar, flour, cocoa-nuts, etc., to the sea. But the more enlightened portion of the Parsi community have discarded such customs. A grand fair is held in Bombay, at which all sections of the inhabitants of the city join for purposes of pleasure and enjoyment. It is observed as a Parsi holiday.

Adar Jasan.—Adar is the name of the 9th day and the ninth month of the year. It is dedicated to fire. On this day the Parsis, both male and female,