Kartir

Kartir was a powerful Zoroastrian high priest in third-century Sasanian Persia. Inscriptions attributed to him record his rise under several kings and his efforts to strengthen Zoroastrian institutions and authority.

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Sasanian Empire: A Persian empire ruled by the Sasanian dynasty from 224 to 651 CE. Kartir gained influence within this empire’s royal court and religious institutions.
Zoroastrianism: An Iranian religion centered on the teachings associated with Zarathustra and the worship of Ahura Mazda. Kartir promoted this religion’s institutions and standing in the Sasanian state.
Sasanian state religion: The privileged public and institutional position Zoroastrianism held under Sasanian rule. Kartir’s career exemplifies the clerical advocacy behind that privileged position.
Bahram I: A Sasanian king who ruled from 271 to 274 CE, succeeding Hormizd I. Kartir’s influence expanded during Bahram’s reign, when Mani was executed.
Ardashir I: The founder of the Sasanian Empire, who ruled from 224 to 242 CE. Kartir’s account associates his early advancement with Ardashir’s reign.
Magi: A class of priests in ancient Iran known for conducting religious rites and preserving ritual knowledge. Kartir’s power rested on his position among Zoroastrian religious authorities.
Zoroastrian clergy: The priests and religious authorities responsible for Zoroastrian rites, teaching, and institutions. Kartir’s policies strengthened the public authority of this clerical body.
Bahram II: A Sasanian king who ruled from 274 to 293 CE and faced internal and external challenges. Kartir’s inscriptions record high honors and authority under Bahram II.
Shapur I: The second Sasanian king, who ruled from 240 to 270 CE and expanded the empire. Kartir rose to prominence during Shapur’s reign and commemorated his religious work.
Mobed: A Zoroastrian priest, especially one holding authority in religious law and ritual. Kartir’s high clerical office placed him above ordinary priestly roles.