Azarakhsh (Persian Lightning Horse)
Azarakhsh is a mythical fire-breathing horse from Persian mythology, whose name means 'lightning' or 'fire' in Middle Persian. It appears in the Persian epic tradition, particularly associated with the great hero Rostam. The Azarakhsh is a fiery, untamable steed of immense speed and power, its hooves striking sparks from the earth. Unlike the more domesticated Rakhsh (Rostam's famous horse), the Azarakhsh represents the wild, untamed power of nature. It is sometimes described as a horse of the Zoroastrian fire divinity (Atar), embodying the sacred element of fire. In some traditions, it is ass