Karaka, Dosabhai Framji: History of the Parsis: including their manners, customs, religion and present position ; in two volumes (Band 1) (London, 1884)

182

HISTORY OF THE PARSIS. [chap. iv.

Answer : " Yes, I have consented."

The representative of the father of the bride is
then asked, " Have you promised to give for ever this
girl of your family in marriage to (naming the hus-
band) with honest thoughts, good words, and for the
increase of goodness ?"

Ansiver : "Yes, I have promised."

The following question is then put to those about
to be married :—" Have you both consented to act
according to your promise with honest heart till the
end of your lives V

Ansiver : " Yes, we have."

After these interrogatories and answers both the
" dasturs " or priests deliver to the husband and wife,
as we may now call them, a short address containing
good, sound, and practical advice, which if attended
to would greatly benefit the bridegroom through his
career in life in all its different aspects, whether
social, political, or commercial. The names of some of
the departed worthies of ancient Persia are mentioned,
whose example they are advised to follow. We give
below the text, which will be read with interest.

By the helping name of Ahura Mazda may your happiness
increase.

May you be brilliant.
Try to do good deeds.
Be increasing.
Be victorious.

Learn to do deeds of piety.