Abivard was a minor diqhan and one of the most trusted generals of Sharbaraz King of Kings of Makuran. His sister, Denak, married Sharbaraz, making him brother-in-law to the King of Kings. Later, he led a successful rebellion and usurped the throne, ruling as King of Kings himself. His father, Godarz, and brothers were killed in the same battle where Peroz King of Kings was killed. He was only saved from being caught in the same trap when his horse stepped in a hole on the ground.