Femininity in the Battle of Light and Darkness: Representation of Feminine Components in Manichean Cosmology

Document Type : Original Article

Author

Corresponding Author, Instructor, Department of Non-Abrahamic Religions, Iranian Religions, Qom University of Religions and Denominations, Qom ,Iran

Abstract

Manichaean cosmology is founded on the dualism of light and darkness, in which feminine components play diverse and sometimes contradictory roles. This study aims to examine the status of femininity within this system and to explore how female figures in Manichaean mythology represent the concepts of good and evil. The central question is whether femininity in Manichaeism is solely a salvific and divine force or if it assumes contradictory roles in relation to good and evil. To address this question, the study analyzes Manichaean texts and examines the role of female figures within the cosmological framework of the tradition, using a dualistic symbolism approach. The findings indicate that figures such as the "Mother of Life" and the "Maiden of Light" embody forces of light and liberation, whereas "Āz" and other negative female figures are associated with darkness, lust, and corruption. The Mother of Life appears as a nurturing and protective force who also plays a warrior-like role in the cosmic battle. In contrast, the Maiden of Light employs her beauty and allure to deceive the forces of darkness and facilitate the liberation of imprisoned light. On the other hand, Āz is depicted as the embodiment of greed, lust, and deviation, a force that causes the entrapment of light within the material world. The comparison of these figures demonstrates that femininity in Manichaeism is neither purely benevolent nor entirely malevolent; rather, it is a dynamic and paradoxical force that plays a crucial role in the Manichaean worldview. This duality underscores the complexity of the feminine principle in Manichaean thought and its significance in shaping cosmic concepts.

Keywords

References

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Comparative Study of Religions and Mysticism
Volume 10, Issue 1
November 2025
Pages 259-275

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History

  • Receive Date: 17 January 2025
  • Revise Date: 04 March 2025
  • Accept Date: 26 April 2025

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