📿world religions review
7.2 Zoroastrianism: History and Core Beliefs
4 min read•Last Updated on August 7, 2024
Zoroastrianism, founded by Zarathustra in ancient Iran, centers on the worship of Ahura Mazda, the supreme god of wisdom and goodness. This monotheistic faith emphasizes the cosmic struggle between good and evil, with humans playing a crucial role through their choices.
Core beliefs include dualism, the importance of truth (Asha), and the concept of an immortal soul (Fravarti). Zoroastrians practice their faith through sacred texts like the Avesta, rituals in fire temples, and a unique calendar with important festivals.
Origins and Key Figures
Zarathustra and the Founding of Zoroastrianism
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- Zarathustra, also known as Zoroaster, was an ancient Iranian prophet who founded Zoroastrianism around the 6th century BCE
- Believed to have received divine revelations from Ahura Mazda, the supreme god in Zoroastrianism
- Taught a monotheistic religion centered around the worship of Ahura Mazda and the rejection of the daevas, the old Iranian gods
- Emphasized the importance of good thoughts, good words, and good deeds in leading a righteous life
Ahura Mazda and Angra Mainyu
- Ahura Mazda is the supreme god in Zoroastrianism, representing wisdom, light, and goodness
- Created the universe and all that is good in it, including humans, animals, and the natural world
- Angra Mainyu, also known as Ahriman, is the evil spirit who opposes Ahura Mazda
- Represents darkness, destruction, and all that is evil in the world
- Humans have free will to choose between following Ahura Mazda or Angra Mainyu, and their choices determine their fate in the afterlife
Core Beliefs
Dualism and the Cosmic Struggle
- Zoroastrianism is based on a dualistic worldview, with a constant struggle between good and evil
- Ahura Mazda represents the forces of good, while Angra Mainyu represents the forces of evil
- Humans are caught in the middle of this cosmic struggle and must choose to align themselves with Ahura Mazda through good thoughts, words, and deeds
- The ultimate goal is the triumph of good over evil and the establishment of a perfect world
Asha and the Importance of Truth
- Asha is a central concept in Zoroastrianism, representing truth, order, and righteousness
- Followers of Zoroastrianism are encouraged to live in accordance with Asha by being honest, just, and compassionate
- Lying and deception are considered grave sins that align one with Angra Mainyu and the forces of evil
- Upholding Asha is seen as a way to support Ahura Mazda in the cosmic struggle against evil
Fravarti and the Afterlife
- Fravarti refers to the immortal soul or spirit of an individual in Zoroastrianism
- After death, the soul is judged based on the person's thoughts, words, and deeds during their lifetime
- Those who have lived in accordance with Asha and supported Ahura Mazda will cross the Chinvat Bridge to paradise (House of Song)
- Those who have aligned themselves with Angra Mainyu through evil actions will fall from the bridge into hell (House of Lies)
- The ultimate fate of the soul is determined by the individual's choices and actions in life
Sacred Texts and Rituals
The Avesta and Yasna
- The Avesta is the primary collection of sacred texts in Zoroastrianism, containing the teachings of Zarathustra and the Gathas, which are hymns attributed to him
- The Yasna is a central ritual in Zoroastrianism, involving the recitation of prayers and the offering of sacred substances like haoma (a plant-based drink) and bread
- The Yasna is performed by priests in fire temples and is meant to strengthen the connection between the worshippers and Ahura Mazda
Fire Temples and Sacred Fires
- Fire is a central symbol in Zoroastrianism, representing purity, light, and the presence of Ahura Mazda
- Fire temples, known as Agiaries or Dar-e Mehrs, house sacred fires that are kept burning continuously
- There are three main types of sacred fires: Atash Behram (Fire of Victory), Atash Adaran (Fire of Fires), and Atash Dadgah (Fire of the Hearth)
- Worshippers pray and meditate in the presence of the sacred fire, which is tended by priests and never allowed to go out
The Zoroastrian Calendar and Festivals
- The Zoroastrian calendar is based on the solar year and consists of 12 months of 30 days each, with an additional five days (Gatha days) added at the end of the year
- The calendar is punctuated by several important festivals, such as Nowruz (the Persian New Year) and the Gahambars (six seasonal festivals)
- These festivals celebrate important events in Zoroastrian history and mythology, as well as the changing of the seasons and the importance of nature
- Worshippers gather in fire temples and homes to pray, feast, and celebrate during these festivals, reinforcing their connection to Ahura Mazda and the Zoroastrian community
Key Terms to Review (25)
Achaemenid Empire: The Achaemenid Empire was the first Persian Empire, founded by Cyrus the Great in the 6th century BCE, and became one of the largest empires in history, stretching from the Indus Valley in the east to Thrace in the west. This empire is crucial for understanding Zoroastrianism as it served as a significant political and cultural context for the development of this ancient religion, which emphasized concepts like dualism and the importance of ethical choices.
Ahura Mazda: Ahura Mazda is the supreme god in Zoroastrianism, symbolizing truth, light, and goodness. This divine figure is central to the religion's belief system, representing the ultimate source of wisdom and the creator of the universe. Ahura Mazda stands in opposition to Angra Mainyu, the spirit of evil, highlighting the dualistic nature of Zoroastrianism, which emphasizes the ongoing battle between good and evil in the world.
Angra mainyu: Angra Mainyu, also known as Ahriman, is the destructive spirit in Zoroastrianism who embodies chaos, evil, and darkness. He is the adversary of Ahura Mazda, the supreme god representing truth and order, and plays a critical role in the dualistic nature of Zoroastrian belief, where good and evil are in constant conflict. This concept emphasizes the moral choices humans must make and the cosmic struggle between these opposing forces.
Asha: Asha is a key concept in Zoroastrianism that represents the principle of truth, order, and righteousness in the universe. It embodies the idea of divine truth and is often seen as a guiding force that maintains cosmic harmony and ethical behavior among humans. The concept of asha is fundamental to understanding Zoroastrian beliefs, as it contrasts with its opposite, druj, which signifies falsehood and chaos.
Atash adaran: Atash adaran refers to a sacred fire in Zoroastrianism that is maintained in fire temples and represents the divine presence of Ahura Mazda, the supreme deity. This fire is central to Zoroastrian worship, symbolizing purity, truth, and the spiritual essence that fuels the universe. The significance of atash adaran extends beyond mere ritual; it embodies the Zoroastrian emphasis on maintaining purity and harmony with the natural world.
Atash Behram: Atash Behram is a type of fire temple in Zoroastrianism that is considered the highest grade of sacred fire. It serves as a central place of worship for Zoroastrians, where the fire is maintained with great reverence, symbolizing purity and the presence of Ahura Mazda, the supreme god in Zoroastrian belief. This temple is significant not just for its spiritual importance but also for its role in the community and cultural identity of Zoroastrians.
Atash dadgah: Atash dadgah refers to a Zoroastrian fire temple that serves as a place of worship, where sacred fires are maintained and rituals are performed. These temples are central to the Zoroastrian faith, symbolizing purity and the divine presence of Ahura Mazda, the supreme deity in Zoroastrianism, allowing followers to connect with their religious heritage and spiritual beliefs.
Avesta: The Avesta is the sacred scripture of Zoroastrianism, consisting of a collection of texts that include hymns, rituals, and religious laws. It serves as the primary source of Zoroastrian beliefs and teachings, reflecting the core concepts of dualism, the nature of the divine, and ethical living. Through its various sections, the Avesta illustrates the historical development of Zoroastrian thought and continues to influence contemporary practices within the faith.
Chinvat Bridge: The Chinvat Bridge is a significant concept in Zoroastrianism representing the bridge that souls must cross after death to reach the afterlife. This bridge serves as a decisive point where a person's actions during their lifetime are evaluated, determining their fate in the afterlife, either leading them to paradise or casting them into hell. This idea emphasizes the importance of ethical living and the consequences of one's choices according to Zoroastrian beliefs.
Dualism: Dualism is the belief in the existence of two fundamental and opposing principles or realities, often represented as good versus evil or light versus darkness. In the context of Zoroastrianism, dualism is a core element that shapes its worldview, illustrating the constant struggle between Ahura Mazda, the god of light and truth, and Angra Mainyu, the spirit of darkness and chaos.
Faravahar: The faravahar is a symbol associated with Zoroastrianism, representing the human soul's journey and the concept of divine protection. Often depicted as a winged figure with a human face, it embodies the values of good thoughts, good words, and good deeds, which are central to Zoroastrian beliefs. The faravahar serves as a reminder of the individual's responsibility to make moral choices in life, reflecting the faith's core tenets of dualism and the ongoing battle between good and evil.
Fire: In Zoroastrianism, fire is considered a sacred element representing purity, truth, and the divine presence of Ahura Mazda, the supreme god. Fire is not only central to Zoroastrian worship but also symbolizes the eternal struggle between good and evil, making it a key aspect of the religion's teachings and practices.
Frashokereti: Frashokereti refers to the Zoroastrian concept of the final renovation or transformation of the world, where good will ultimately triumph over evil. This belief is deeply rooted in Zoroastrian eschatology, emphasizing the idea that all souls will be resurrected and judged, leading to a restored world free from corruption and suffering. It highlights Zoroastrianism's dualistic worldview, where the ongoing struggle between Ahura Mazda (the god of light and goodness) and Angra Mainyu (the spirit of chaos and evil) culminates in a divine resolution.
Fravarti: Fravarti refers to the concept of the guardian spirit or soul in Zoroastrianism, which represents the essence of an individual and their purpose in life. This term is deeply connected to Zoroastrian beliefs regarding the duality of good and evil, where each person's fravarti embodies their divine spark and guides them toward righteousness, fostering a relationship between the individual and the cosmic order of Ahura Mazda, the supreme god.
Gabars: Gabars refers to the term used to describe followers of Zoroastrianism who are considered impure or sinful, particularly those who have converted to other religions. This term is often associated with the concept of purity in Zoroastrian beliefs, highlighting the dualistic nature of Zoroastrianism where purity and pollution are significant themes.
Gahambars: Gahambars are seasonal festivals in Zoroastrianism that celebrate creation and honor various aspects of the natural world. They are important community events that reflect the Zoroastrian emphasis on environmental stewardship and the interconnectedness of all living things, fostering a sense of unity among practitioners through shared rituals and communal feasting.
Gathas: Gathas are a collection of hymns composed by Zoroaster, the founder of Zoroastrianism, and are considered some of the oldest texts in the Zoroastrian sacred scriptures. These poetic verses are essential to understanding Zoroastrian beliefs and practices, as they articulate key theological concepts, moral principles, and the nature of the divine. The Gathas emphasize themes such as truth, righteousness, and the struggle between good and evil, forming a foundational part of the faith's ethical framework.
Navjote: Navjote is a Zoroastrian initiation ceremony that marks the formal acceptance of an individual into the Zoroastrian faith. This important ritual usually takes place during childhood and involves several key elements, including the recitation of prayers, wearing a sacred shirt, and the tying of the kusti, a sacred thread, around the waist. The navjote ceremony symbolizes the individual's commitment to upholding Zoroastrian values and participating in the community's religious practices.
Nowruz: Nowruz is the Persian New Year, celebrated on the vernal equinox, marking the arrival of spring and symbolizing renewal and rebirth. This festival has deep roots in Zoroastrianism, where it reflects themes of rejuvenation and the victory of light over darkness, connecting to core beliefs about the importance of nature and life. It is not only a cultural celebration for Zoroastrians but also holds significance in various communities across the Middle East and Central Asia.
Parsis: Parsis are the followers of Zoroastrianism who migrated to India from Persia to escape religious persecution after the Islamic conquest of Persia in the 7th century. They play a crucial role in preserving Zoroastrian beliefs and practices, maintaining a distinct cultural identity while contributing to Indian society.
Sasanian Period: The Sasanian Period refers to the era of the Sasanian Empire, which lasted from 224 to 651 CE in Persia. This period is significant for the development and establishment of Zoroastrianism as the state religion, as well as for its cultural, artistic, and philosophical advancements that influenced both the region and neighboring civilizations.
Towers of silence: Towers of silence, known as 'dakhmas,' are circular, raised structures used in Zoroastrianism for the exposure of the dead. This practice is rooted in the core belief that bodies are considered impure after death, and therefore, should not be buried or cremated, as these methods would pollute the earth and fire, both sacred elements in Zoroastrian cosmology. The towers serve as a practical solution to dispose of corpses while respecting the fundamental tenets of the faith.
Yasna: Yasna is a central liturgical text of Zoroastrianism, consisting of a series of hymns and rituals that are recited during religious ceremonies. It forms a crucial part of the Zoroastrian religious practice, reflecting the core beliefs of the faith and the teachings attributed to Zoroaster, the founder of Zoroastrianism. The Yasna is not only a sacred text but also a means of connecting practitioners to the divine through prayers and rituals that embody the essence of Zoroastrian worship.
Zarathustra: Zarathustra, also known as Zoroaster, is the founder of Zoroastrianism, one of the world's oldest monotheistic religions. He is believed to have lived in ancient Persia, likely around the 6th century BCE, and his teachings emphasized the duality of good and evil, the importance of individual choice, and the worship of one supreme god, Ahura Mazda. His philosophical ideas laid the groundwork for many concepts in later religious traditions.
Zoroaster: Zoroaster, also known as Zarathustra, was an ancient Iranian prophet and the founder of Zoroastrianism, one of the world’s oldest monotheistic religions. He is credited with teaching the concepts of a single god, Ahura Mazda, and the importance of individual choice in the cosmic struggle between good and evil. Zoroaster's teachings laid the foundation for key beliefs in Zoroastrianism, influencing various aspects of religious thought and practice both historically and in contemporary contexts.
Achaemenid Empire
See definitionThe Achaemenid Empire was the first Persian Empire, founded by Cyrus the Great in the 6th century BCE, and became one of the largest empires in history, stretching from the Indus Valley in the east to Thrace in the west. This empire is crucial for understanding Zoroastrianism as it served as a significant political and cultural context for the development of this ancient religion, which emphasized concepts like dualism and the importance of ethical choices.
Term 1 of 25
Achaemenid Empire
See definitionThe Achaemenid Empire was the first Persian Empire, founded by Cyrus the Great in the 6th century BCE, and became one of the largest empires in history, stretching from the Indus Valley in the east to Thrace in the west. This empire is crucial for understanding Zoroastrianism as it served as a significant political and cultural context for the development of this ancient religion, which emphasized concepts like dualism and the importance of ethical choices.
Term 1 of 25
