Abdul Majid Arfaei (86) passed away - Cyrus Cylinder researcher

Foto: درفش کاویانی (CC BY-SA 4.0)
Researcher and elamitoloog
Born: September 1, 1939, Bandar Abbas
Died: February 25, 2026, Tehran (age 86)
Researcher Abdul Majid Arfaei passed away on February 25, 2026, at the age of 86. Introduction Abdul Majid Arfaei was a renowned expert in the Elamitic, Avestan, and Pahlavi languages. He is especially known for his contributions to the translation of more than 2,500 Persepolis inscriptions, which had a significant impact on the study of the Achaemenid Empire. Academic Career Arfaei was born on September 1, 1939, in Bandar Abbas, Iran. He developed a passion for Old Persian languages and quickly became an authority in this field. His academic career included the following key milestones: Founder of the Inscriptions Hall at the National Museum of Iran, an important center for research into Old Persian studies. Translator of over 2,500 Persepolis inscriptions, greatly improving the accessibility of these documents for international researchers. Pioneer in digitizing and cataloging inscriptions, which stimulated research into these important artifacts. Published numerous scholarly articles in journals dedicated to Old Persian languages and inscriptions. His work on the Cyrus Cylinder contributed to the international understanding of this significant historical artifact. Arfaei’s contributions have significantly transformed the field of Old Persian paleography and epigraphy. Through his translations and analyses, researchers gained better insight into the administrative structure, economy, and culture of Ancient Persia. Additionally, he collaborated with international institutions, further amplifying his impact on global research. Private Life Limited public information is available about Abdul Majid Arfaei’s private life. However, he was known for his dedication to his field and his passion for preserving Iranian heritage. Passing Abdul Majid Arfaei passed away on February 25, 2026, in Tehran, Iran, at the age of 86. Universities and research institutes mourned his loss and recognized his contributions to science and the preservation of Old Persian heritage. Closure With the death of Abdul Majid Arfaei, the scientific community loses a respected expert in Old Persian languages and inscriptions. His work has not only contributed to academia but also to the international understanding of the Achaemenid Empire and its important historical artifacts. More notable deceased from the scientific community can be found on Overleden.net. This article was prepared with the support of AI tools and verified by the editorial team of Overleden.net.
Facts at a glance
| Full name | Abdul Majid Arfaei |
|---|---|
| Date of birth | September 1, 1939 |
| Place of birth | Bandar Abbas |
| Date of death | February 25, 2026 |
| Place of death | Tehran |
| Age | 86 years |
| Nationality | Iraans |
| Profession | Researcher and elamitoloog |
| Cause of death | Unknown |
| Country of birth | Iran |
| Country of death | Iran |
| Known for | Cyrus Cylinder |