Character · The Shahnameh · Volume III

Mazdakمزدک

maz-DAK

A shrewd preacher who wins Qobad to his new doctrine and is hanged on Kisra's order.

In the poem: First at D12.6, Qobad Adopts the Faith of Mazdak; last at D12.7, Anooshirvan Overthrows Mazdak’s Faith
Named: 39 times, in 2 sections
Main stories: D12 Qobad and the Mazdakite Revolution (39)
Plates: Vol III: V

Genealogical plate: Bahram Goor and His House — Volume III, Plate V: Bahram Goor and His House. Tap to open the genealogies.

In the poem’s own words

The 2 sections that name Mazdak most often, with the summary from the Notes and the couplets that name Mazdak. Tap a couplet number to read it in the full poem.

D12.6

Qobad Adopts the Faith of Mazdak

Mazdak rises at court as Qobad’s minister and treasurer. When drought brings famine he draws two judgments from the king, that withholding a remedy or food is murder, then tells the crowd to take the grain stores. Qobad, persuaded, adopts his faith.

D12.6.1
There rose a man named Mazdak, shrewd and wise,A learned speaker, keen in all men’s eyes.
D12.6.9
Mazdak then gave the waiting crowd this word:“The Shah will show a path when I am heard.”
D12.6.13
Mazdak rejoined, “A man lies serpent-stung;His life is ebbing, and his hope is wrung.

Mazdak named 16 times here · read the section in the full poem · notes

D12.7

Anooshirvan Overthrows Mazdak’s Faith

Mazdak demands that Kisra join his faith; the prince asks five months and gathers sages. At the appointed debate a Mobad demolishes the doctrine, Qobad renounces it, and Mazdak with three thousand followers is handed to Kisra, who plants them head down in a garden and hangs their leader.

D12.7.1
At dawn Mazdak went out before the king,Intent upon the claim he meant to bring.
D12.7.3
Qobad then bade the chamberlain obey,And bring Mazdak’s assembled men that day.
D12.7.4
Mazdak replied, “This house is far too small;The crowd will overflow the audience hall.