Mirat and Hausergiri of Sasanida Empire (224-651 AD) Basic system and information about it

Abstract

For over four centuries, Sassanian Persia stood as the dominant power in Asia. Zoroastrianism, patronized by the Shahanshahs, exerted immense influence over the legal, religious, and social foundations of the Empire. Within Zoroastrianism, marriage held a unique significance and status; every Zoroastrian was obligated to marry and establish a family to ensure the perpetuation of the family lineage. This institution functioned within a complex and intricate legal and social framework deeply rooted in Zoroastrian doctrine. In this context, inheritance and marriage did not merely regulate familial relations but served as mechanisms for stabilizing social structures, solidifying class stratification, and ensuring economic and political continuity. In Sassanian thought, marriage was not solely a private relationship but was regarded as a fundamental religious and social obligation.This study provides a detailed analysis of the concepts of inheritance and marriage within the Sassanian Empire (224–651 CE), highlighting the legal and social interrelationships between them. Given that the Sassanian Empire was founded on Zoroastrian principles, this research elucidates the various forms of marriage, the rights and obligations of men and women within the marital framework, and the tenets of inheritance law. Furthermore, it examines the role of social stratification and status in determining inheritance rights. The primary objective of this study is to demonstrate how these two systems were intertwined to preserve family power and retain wealth within the family unit—a foundational element for the social and economic stability of the Sassanian Empire. The central research questions address the nature of marriage within the Sassanian state: What were the predominant forms of marriage? Which types were most prevalent in Sassanian society, and how did each distinct type impact gender rights and inheritance outcomes?