Yurba

In Mandaeism, Yurba or Yorabba () 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. In Mandaean texts, Yurba is often mentioned as engaging in conversation with Ruha. Gelbert (2013) also suggests that Yurba alludes to the historical Rabbula, a 5th-century bishop of Edessa.

of the Right Ginza equates Yurba with Adonai of Judaism, while Gelbert (2017) identifies Yurba with Yao. 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. Mandaean Book of John chapter 52 is a narrative dedicated to Yurba.

Etymology

Yurba (Yorbā) is a portmanteau of Yao and Rba (Rabba), which means 'great'.

Qmaha ḏ-Iurba

The Qmaha ḏ-Iurba (Qmaha of Yurba") is an amulet scroll that invokes Yurba for protection. Manuscripts include:

• 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. kupaÅ¡ia uduraÅ¡iẖ in 1286 A.H. (1869-70 A.D.)

See also

• List of angels in theology

References