8. Persian Shahs and Divine Kingship
Persian kings, most notably Darius I, asserted that their rule was divinely sanctioned by Ahura Mazda, the supreme god of Zoroastrianism. This claim of divine selection was a powerful tool, helping to unify the vast and culturally diverse Persian Empire. Darius I’s inscriptions often referenced his special favor from Ahura Mazda, reinforcing both his legitimacy and the empire’s religious cohesion. For further reading, visit World History Encyclopedia.
