Hibil (Hibil Ziwa)

According to Mandaean cosmological narratives summarized in the baptismal and Ginza traditions, Hibil Ziwa is spoken of as a son or creation of Manda d‑Hayyi (Knowledge/Life) and one of the early emanations of the World of Light. Commissioned by Manda d‑Hayyi and other high Light authorities, Hibil is ritually baptized and equipped in order to descend through progressive dark realms (naming Ruha, Zartai‑Zartanai, Hag and Mag, Giu, Krun, Qin, etc.), where he conquers hostile rulers, retrieves dangerous objects, and seals abodes and gates of Darkness to restore cosmic balance (Right Ginza; the Baptism of Hibil Ziwa; Diwan Maṣbuta ḏ‑Hibil Ziwa summaries; Qolasta formula references).

Sources emphasize Hibil's radiance and ritual accoutrements rather than a detailed morphology. He is described as 'Splendid' (Ziwa) and as an uthra and is said to receive 360 robes of light in connection with his baptismal empowerment. Some accounts record that, in particular episodes, he 'assumes the appearance of Anathan' (Right Ginza / Baptism of Hibil Ziwa summaries).

Hibil undertakes soteriological descents into the World of Darkness in which he is ritually prepared (baptized repeatedly — accounts vary between 360,000 and 360 yardeni) and furnished with sacred items (360 robes of light, the Great Mystery, seven staves, and the name Yawar). In the dark realms he conquers and binds rulers such as Krun, Shdum, and Giu, retrieves dark waters and ritual objects (the jewel, mirror, bitter herb), seals gates and abodes of darkness, and facilitates the ascent and protection of souls. He also functions in liturgical and mediatory roles, being invoked in prayer formulas and instructing or interacting with other uthras (e.g., directions to Abatur in boundary duties) (Right Ginza; Diwan Maṣbuta ḏ‑Hibil Ziwa; Qolasta; secondary summaries).