A study of Homa in the middle period of Pashto literature

Abstract

The Homa bird, recognized as a bone-eating species, has gained significant appreciation in literature due to its mythological importance. It is believed that when the shadow of the Homa falls on someone, it commit good fortune and raises them to kingship. In ornithology, the Homa is classified within the vulture family. In the Avesta, the bird is referred to as Homa (also known as Humaya, Huma, or Humya), symbolizing good luck. Additionally, in the Avesta, it is known as the Varghan Bird, representing the separation of Jamshed’s divine glory in bird form. As a harmless, bone-eating bird, the Homa has drawn the attention of poets.

In the Middle Period of Pashto literature, this bird was explored through a library-based, descriptive, and interpretive approach in the works of twelve poets. In the mystical and lyrical poetry of this era, the Homa bird frequently appears as a metaphor and simile. Poets of the Middle Period emphasized various attributes of the Homa, such as its generosity, patience, contentment, harmlessness, prosperity, and good fortune, showcasing these qualities in their poetry from unique perspectives.