Ashem Vohu
The Three-Line Prayer of Truth
Why this prayer matters
One of the three most important Zoroastrian prayers, recited daily to affirm commitment to truth and righteousness (Asha).
Sixteen sacred prayers — the Avestan text, the English meaning, and an audio recording for every one. The fire never goes out.
Sunrise to Noon · The First Watch of the Day
Next: Rapithwin Gāh at 12:00 PM
Six steps — the foundation of every Zoroastrian prayer practice.
Bath or wash hands, face, and feet before praying. Cover your head with a cap, scarf, or cloth as a sign of respect. Wear clean clothes and the sacred Kusti thread if initiated.
The Kusti is a sacred thread worn by initiated Zoroastrians. Untie and retie it while reciting the Kusti prayers — Khshnaothra, Kem Na Mazda, Hormezd-i Khodai, Jasa-me, then Ashem Vohu.
Each of the five daily Gāhs has a specific prayer time. Recite the corresponding Gāh prayer within its window. If you miss a Gāh, you have 33 minutes to make it up.
Prayers are in Avestan or Pazand. Listen to the audio recordings below to learn correct pronunciation, or follow the transliterations. Practice slowly to ensure accuracy.
Focus on the meaning of the prayers to connect with Ahura Mazda's divine wisdom. Recite with faith and devotion to enhance your spiritual consciousness.
After the Gāh prayer, you may recite additional prayers like Ashem Vohu, Yatha Ahu Vairyo, or Niyayeshes based on time or occasion.
The three core prayers of every Zoroastrian
The Three-Line Prayer of Truth
One of the three most important Zoroastrian prayers, recited daily to affirm commitment to truth and righteousness (Asha).
The Ahunawar — Invocation of Divine Authority
The second most important prayer, recited to invoke divine authority and wisdom, often during the Kusti ritual.
We Worship Those Worthy of Reverence
The prayers of purification and the sacred-thread ritual
Invocation of Ahura Mazda's Pleasure
Part of the Kusti ritual, recited during purification (Padyab) to invoke Ahura Mazda's blessings.
The Protector's Prayer
Part of the Kusti ritual, recited as a protective prayer during purification — a shield against negative forces.
O Hormazd, Lord — The Tying of the Thread
Part of the Kusti ritual, recited while tying the sacred thread, seeking divine blessings.
The Zoroastrian Creed
Part of the Kusti ritual, includes the Zoroastrian creed, recited after tying the sacred thread to declare faith.
The Daily Prayer of Protection
A daily prayer asking for protection and healing, often recited after the Kusti ritual.
The five sacred watches of the day
Sunrise to Noon · The First Watch
Morning prayer, recited from sunrise to noon, honoring divine order at the start of the day.
Noon to 3 PM · The Watch of Harmony
Noon prayer, recited from noon to 3:00 PM, focusing on divine harmony at the day's height.
3 PM to Sunset · The Afternoon Watch
Afternoon prayer, recited from 3:00 PM to sunset, emphasizing spiritual focus as the day declines.
Sunset to Midnight · The Watch of Protection
Evening prayer, recited from sunset to midnight, seeking protection through the night.
Midnight to Sunrise · The Watch of Vigilance
Midnight prayer, recited from midnight to sunrise, focusing on spiritual vigilance in the deep hours.
Litanies to the Sun, to Mithra, and to the Sacred Fire
Litany to the Sun
Litany to the Sun, recited during daylight to honor the divine light that illuminates creation.
Litany to Mithra — Lord of the Covenant
Litany to Mithra, the angel of covenant and light, recited for divine protection and just dealings.
Litany to the Sacred Fire
Litany to the Fire, recited to honor the sacred flame as a symbol of divine light, truth, and the presence of Ahura Mazda.