Huma bird
The Huma (Persian: هما, pronounced Homā, Avestan: Homāio), also Homa or Homay, is a mythical bird of Iranian legends and fables, and continuing as a common motif in Sufi and Diwan poetry. Although there are many legends of the creature, common to all is that the bird is said never to alight on the ground, and instead to live its entire life flying invisibly high above the earth.
Legendary Attributes:
- Invisibility and Altitude: The Huma bird is said to fly at high altitudes, invisibly, and never touch the ground.
- No Feet: Some legends describe the bird as having no feet, further emphasizing its airborne existence.
- Symbol of Kingship: The Huma bird is often associated with kingship, and its shadow or touch is believed to bestow good fortune and even elevate someone to royal status, according to some legends.
- Spiritual Transformation: The Huma bird’s journey through the heavens symbolizes spiritual enlightenment and personal growth.
- Symbol of Fortune: It’s considered a bird of good fortune, and its shadow is believed to bring blessings.
- Phoenix-like Nature: Some variations of the legend describe the Huma bird as consuming itself in fire every few hundred years, only to be reborn from the ashes, similar to a phoenix.
Symbolism and Significance:
- Blessings and Good Fortune: The Huma bird is seen as a bringer of blessings, and its presence is considered auspicious.
- Hope and Compassion: It embodies hope and compassion, offering comfort and guidance to those in need.
- Eternal Peace: The Huma bird is linked to the cycle of birth and death, symbolizing eternal peace and the continuity of life.
- Symbol of Iran Air: The Huma bird is the emblem of Iran Air, the national airline of Iran, representing good fortune and blessings for the country’s aviation and passengers.
Cultural References:
- Persian Mythology: The Huma bird is deeply rooted in Persian folklore and literature.
- Sufi Tradition: It’s also referenced in Sufi poetry and tradition.
- Ottoman Poetry: The bird appears in Ottoman poetry as a symbol of good fortune and paradise.
- [Turkish Folk Literature]: It’s a recurring figure in Turkish folk literature.
- Indian Mythology: The Huma bird is also mentioned in Indian mythology, sometimes with a different name like Homer.