Yurba
Uthra in Mandaeism
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In Mandaeism, Yurba or Yorabba[1] (Classical Mandaic: ࡉࡅࡓࡁࡀ, romanized: Iurba) is an uthra (angelic or celestial being). Lidzbarski (1905, 1920) spells his name as spelt Jōrabba. Yurba, who is also called the fighter, is identified with Shamish, the sun.[2] In Mandaean texts, Yurba is often mentioned as engaging in conversation with Ruha.[3] Gelbert (2013) also suggests that Yurba alludes to the historical Rabbula, a 5th-century bishop of Edessa.[1]
| Yurba | |
|---|---|
| Other names | Jōrabba |
| Affiliation | Shamish, Adonai, Yao |
| Abode | World of Light |
| Texts | Mandaean Book of John chapter 52 |
Book 18 of the Right Ginza equates Yurba with Adonai of Judaism, while Gelbert (2017) identifies Yurba with Yao.[4] He is mentioned in Right Ginza 3, 5.3 (which mentions Yurba as a matarta guardian), 8, 12.1, 15.5, and 18 and Left Ginza 2.22 and 3.45.[3] Mandaean Book of John chapter 52 is a narrative dedicated to Yurba.[4]
Etymology
Yurba (Yorbā) is a portmanteau of Yao and Rba (Rabba), which means 'great'.[5]
Qmaha ḏ-Iurba
The Qmaha ḏ-Iurba (Qmaha of Yurba") is an amulet scroll that invokes Yurba for protection. Manuscripts include:[6]
- MS DC 43h, copied by Iahia Bihram br Adam Iuhana in the marshlands in 1272 A.H. (1855-6 A.D.)
- MS DC 18, copied by Sheikh Faraj (Adam br Iahia br Adam Zihrun) for E. S. Drower in Baghdad in 1355 A.H. (1935 A.D.).
- MS CS 27: 8a-10a (undated, probably 19th century)
- MS RRC 1F, copied by Mhatam Iuhana br Ram Zihrun br Sam k. ‘Aziz l. kupašia udurašiẖ in 1286 A.H. (1869-70 A.D.)