When Shapur the Great departed the mortal world, his brother Ardashir mounted the imperial throne, illuminating the royal seat that had been adorned by the legacy of the elder Shapur. Girding his loins with justice, Ardashir summoned the nobles and populace of Iran, seating them honorably at the base of his golden throne.
Addressing the assembled grandees, King Ardashir declared: 'I desire that under the turning sky, no harm shall come to any living soul. If the world bends harmoniously to our will, people shall witness both our swift firmness and our tranquil grace; but if the world proves unyielding, we shall adapt ourselves to its tides. My brother entrusted this realm to me because his son was yet a child. I send blessings upon his righteous spirit, for he cleansed the earth of all ill-wishers. When young Shapur, son of Shapur, grows tall and worthy of the crown and throne, I shall hand over the army, crown, and realm to him, as was my solemn covenant with King Shapur. I am merely the custodian of this throne and a living remembrance of his father.'
He then exhorted all present to uphold righteousness and honor ancient laws, reminding them that all earthly pleasures pass away, and upon death, all worldly toil turns to wind.
For ten years, Ardashir governed the realm with strict equity and peace. He demanded no tribute, tax, or duty from any subject, granting his protection freely to all. Because every citizen lived in ease and tranquility during his reign, he was bestowed the epithet 'Nokookar' (the Beneficent). When young Shapur reached full maturity and became worthy of the throne, the valiant Ardashir did not falter from his sacred vow. With nobility and chivalry, he surrendered the blessed crown to his nephew and stepped down, having preserved the order and honor of the empire.