Medical science during the Sassanid period

Abstract

Abstract During the Sassanid period, the kings showed great interest in medicine, largely because of its religious significance. In Zoroastrianism, medicine was considered a sacred science, so the kings considered it as part of their religious duty. Medical education during this time was deeply intertwined with Zoroastrian beliefs, the Avesta was the basis of medical education for the Sassanid physicians and the physicians themselves were Zoroastrian men, at the same time, they benefited greatly from medical science and doctors from Egypt, Greece, India and China and were encouraged in various ways to transfer their medical experience to the Sassanid state and teach medicine. Sassanid doctors believed that people could suffer from two main types of illnesses: mental and physical. They had various treatments for each type, believing that a calm and healthy mind was essential for a healthy body. All diseases were sent to humanity by Ahriman and herbal medicines were sent to earth by Ahura Mazda. The University of Jundi Shapur became a hub where medical knowledge from different civilizations was combined, helping medical science in the Sassanid state to flourish.