Bihram (Bihram Rabba)

Within Mandaean cosmology Bihram is an uthra of the World of Light whose primary cosmological and liturgical identity is as the presiding celestial agent of the masbuta (baptism). Textual attestations in the Qolasta and the Mandaean Book of John present him as a named member of the divine host; he is invoked in liturgy for baptismal efficacy and also participates in mythic episodes (for example, chapter 3 of the Book of John, where he joins other uthras led by Nbaṭ). The name Bihram (Classical Mandaic: ࡁࡉࡄࡓࡀࡌ, Modern pronunciation [bɑhˈrɑm]) is sometimes analyzed as possibly derived from the Persian name Bahram, though sources present that link as a suggestion rather than a confirmed etymology (see Qolasta and Book of John references).

Primary liturgical and narrative sources consulted do not supply a physical description of Bihram. He is represented nominally in prayers (Qolasta) and as an acting celestial agent in mythic narrative (Book of John chapter 3), but no descriptive bodily or visual attributes are given in the provided excerpts.

Bihram's principal power is liturgical authority: he presides over the masbuta (baptism) and is repeatedly invoked in masbuta prayers in the Qolasta, indicating a role in securing ritual efficacy and the ascension of the soul. In mythic narrative (Mandaean Book of John ch. 3) he also acts as a martial agent among the uthras—participating in a rebellion against Yushamin and his sons and killing nine of Yushamin's sons in that episode. Thus sources portray Bihram both as a guardian and facilitator in ritual contexts and as an active participant in celestial conflicts.