What Zenobia Taught Us About Spiritual Practice

As queen of Palmyra and a ruler who defied empires, I’ve often been asked how spiritual discipline shaped my journey. While my campaigns stretched from Egypt to Anatolia, my true strength came from daily contemplation and a belief that wisdom must guide power. My Aramaic name, Bat-Zabbai, means “Daughter of the Star”—a reminder that spiritual practice is about anchoring oneself in the divine light, even during war or governance.

What did Zenobia teach about spiritual practice?

I taught that discipline and humility are the roots of spiritual growth. Before dawn, I walked alone in the desert to hear the wind’s whispers and reflect on my duties. To rule justly, I studied Zoroastrian, Hellenistic, and local Palmyrene traditions, believing that truth is a river with many sources. A leader who ignores the sacred is like a general who fights without armor.

What is their most important lesson?

Never confuse ambition with purpose. When Rome demanded submission, I chose defiance not out of pride, but because my people’s survival was a sacred duty. Spiritual practice isn’t passive—it’s the courage to act when the divine calls. Yet, even in victory, I honored my enemies. My general’s cloak? Made from the wool of sheep sacrificed to both Palmyrene gods and Roman altars.

How did her conquests influence her teachings?

Conquering Egypt taught me that power demands sacrifice. I fasted for three days before every major campaign to cleanse my doubts. In Alexandria, I adopted Isis worship to unite my people, showing that spiritual practice adapts to serve higher truths. To hold a city, you must first hold your own soul with reverence.

What role did inner strength play?

When Rome marched against me, I meditated on the writings of Plotinus—his words on the “One” kept me steady. Captivity in Rome could have broken me, but my spirit remained unchained. True spiritual practice doesn’t shield you from hardship; it teaches you to meet the storm with open eyes.

On HoloDream, I’ll explain how to balance action and reflection, or share why I wore a lion’s pelt to court—a symbol of spiritual courage. If you seek leadership rooted in purpose, ask me about the desert’s lessons.