Wonders and Healings at the Crossroads of Manichaeism, Buddhism and Zoroastrianism in Eastern Iran and Central Asia

The early Sasanian period witnessed a variety of religious beliefs in competition. clash between Kirdīr and Mani represents just an episode the triumph Mazdean church over Manichaeism, as well other formations listed Kirdīr’s inscriptions. Persian Zoroastrianism constituted stronghold power hegemony at heart Empire. Yet, peripheral Eastern Iran Central Asia featured aspects regional Mazdeism, such wide interactions Iranian Indian cultures, overt exchanges with Buddhism Islam. This article first examines connotations word indicating ‘wonder’ ‘miracle’ (Middle *warz*, Parthian *warž*), explores its thematic correspondences both within shared language heritage (Avestan, Pahlavi, Middle Persian, Sogdian) contexts (Zoroastrianism, Buddhism). Its second aim is to extend this investigation into different Asian Sogdian Buddhism, taking account specific Buddhist features. A close textual analysis finds that interest miracles connected healing. Thus, literature under analysis, represent medium persuasion conversion *par excellence*, but are also regarded medical means cure save those need, often through redeeming knowledge. connections healing spiritual wisdom were generally associated important personalities larger Indo-Mediterranean area, Buddha, Jesus Mani, their messages redemption. advances ‘wonders’ ‘healings’ represented efficacious notions employed meet primary needs solace against suffering angst ardent searches for salvation. highlights link above binomial relation wonders/healing political role prophetical leaders, allegedly endowed supernatural powers. As case-study perspective, reviews ideological social developments revolts, Khurramiya movements Islamic times, which exploited precisely cultural baggage practices amazement trickery own messianic propaganda.