Kavies and Karaps

Zoroaster, the prophet of ancient Iran, who probably lived at the beginning of the first millennium B.C promulgated a religion whose followers are now called Zoroastrians. According to the basic beliefs of this religion, Ormazd is eternal but nothing is mentioned regarding the eternity of Ahriman. It should be stated that although both have emerged from the same essence, Ormazd is a manifestation of mercy and grace while Ahriman represents wrath and usurpation. Zoroastrianism is based on benevolent behavior, attitude and deed. A faithful person has to comply with Ormazd and to contest Ahriman and devilishly soles.After proclaiming his religion, Zoroaster encountered oppositions from among the Aryan society. His two main opponent groups were Kavies and Karaps. Based on the Pahlavi Zoroastrian resources such as Dinkard and The Extract of Zadesparm, these two groups attempted to kill Zoroaster from the time of his birth. However, each time they were frustrated. Kei is a title of rulers, starting from KeiGhobad, who are known as Keiyaniyan. KeiGashtas`s reign, the last king of Keiyaniyan, coincided by the advent of Zoroaster. Despite all the oppositions he faced from Kavies and Karaps, Gashtasb accepted the Zoroaster’s religion. Hence, he has been commemorated in Gahan. Generally speaking, Kavi means Commander, king and ruler. While Karap means clergyman who performs religious commands. Thus, it is not acceptable to consider the two titles synonym and substitutable.