Saiáwush

Family: Irán · Role: son of Káús · First appears: The Story of Saiáwush · Part 1

In the Story of Saiáwush, Kai-káús’s son was taken by Rustem to Zábulistán, where he was taught the accomplishments suited to his rank. Súdáveh called him to her secret bower, but he refused her invitation; when she later embraced and kissed him, he withdrew. He agreed to marry her daughter, but she accused him of assaulting her. Kai-káús knew the accusation was false, and Saiáwush later passed through the ordeal of fire unharmed. Seeking to escape Súdáveh’s machinations, he requested command of a campaign, and Kai-káús sent him with Rustem.

When Afrásiyáb chose peace, he accepted Saiáwush’s demands for hostages and the return of conquered provinces. Kai-káús nevertheless ordered Saiáwush to return with the hostages; instead, Saiáwush entrusted Balkh, the army, and treasure to Báhrám for delivery to Tús, and went to Túrán. Afrásiyáb welcomed him and offered him a province or military support. After a year Saiáwush married Gúlshaher, and some time later, with her consent, married Ferangís. Afrásiyáb granted the couple sovereignty of Khoten. They had a son, and Saiáwush asked Ferangís to name him Kai-khosráu if he was born after Saiáwush had left.

Persuaded by Gersíwaz to delay his departure, Saiáwush was eventually fettered and taken to the royal residence. On Afrásiyáb’s order, he was beheaded; his friend Pílsam buried him with respect and affection. In the Story of Saiáwush, Zúára later burned and destroyed what came in his way in revenge for the outrage against him. In the Death of Afrásiyáb, Kai-khosráu ordered Afrásiyáb and Gersíwaz put to death in vengeance for Saiáwush.