Saffron in mythology

Saffron is quite significant in Iranian culture, a reason why some literary references are made to it in mythological literature of Persia. This research, at first, tries to investigate the symbolism behind saffron and its numerous applications in ancient beliefs and religions. Bundahishn, the most ancient mythological Iranian text in the Middle Persian language, is a primeval instance where the usage of saffron by ancient Iranians is mentioned. The main part of this study is based on quotations from Ferdosi and Biruni. In mythological episode of Shahnameh, the epic by Ferdowsi, there are cases provided on how ancient Iranians used saffron in their ceremonies and rituals. Then follows an old narrative in which the advent of saffron is depicted according to the book named Al-Saydana fe-Tib by Biruni. Eventually, the study is concluded with a similar fable illustrating the birth of saffron through Greek sources.