Frashokereti

Definition

Frashokereti is a Zoroastrian concept that refers to the final renovation of the universe, where good ultimately triumphs over evil. This eschatological belief envisions a future time when Ahura Mazda, the supreme deity in Zoroastrianism, will restore order and righteousness, leading to a new world free from sin and suffering. It serves as a pivotal theme in Zoroastrian apocalyptic narratives, highlighting the ultimate victory of light over darkness.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Frashokereti signifies a future event where all souls will be judged and evil will be eradicated forever.
2. This concept includes the resurrection of the dead, where people will rise to face judgment based on their earthly deeds.
3. Frashokereti is often depicted in Zoroastrian texts as a time of universal harmony, peace, and unity among all beings.
4. The term is linked to various Zoroastrian rituals and practices aimed at reinforcing the principles of order and justice in the present world.
5. In Zoroastrian eschatology, frashokereti serves as an assurance that despite current struggles against evil, ultimate redemption and renewal are guaranteed.

Review Questions

• How does frashokereti illustrate the struggle between good and evil in Zoroastrian belief?
  • Frashokereti exemplifies the Zoroastrian worldview that emphasizes the ongoing battle between good, represented by Ahura Mazda, and evil, embodied by Angra Mainyu. This concept highlights the belief that despite temporary victories of evil in the world, a definitive resolution will occur in the future where good prevails. The ultimate triumph over evil showcases the hope and assurance within Zoroastrian teachings that righteousness will restore cosmic order.
• Discuss how frashokereti relates to themes found in other apocalyptic narratives across different religions.
  • Frashokereti shares similarities with other apocalyptic narratives such as those found in Christianity and Islam, which also depict final battles between good and evil and promise ultimate redemption. In these traditions, there are prophetic visions of judgment days, resurrection, and the establishment of a new heaven or paradise. Like frashokereti, these narratives emphasize moral accountability and provide believers with hope for an eventual restoration of order and justice within their respective cosmologies.
• Evaluate the significance of frashokereti in understanding Zoroastrian identity and its influence on other religious traditions.
  • Frashokereti is crucial for understanding Zoroastrian identity as it embodies their core beliefs about morality, justice, and the nature of existence. This concept not only shapes Zoroastrians' view of life and death but also influences other religious traditions that have emerged from or interacted with Zoroastrianism. By providing a framework for understanding cosmic order and divine justice, frashokereti has played a role in shaping eschatological beliefs in other faiths such as Judaism, Christianity, and Islam, highlighting its lasting impact on spiritual thought across cultures.

Related terms

Zoroastrianism: An ancient pre-Islamic religion of Persia that centers on the teachings of the prophet Zoroaster, focusing on the duality of good and evil.

Ahura Mazda: The supreme god in Zoroastrianism, representing all that is good and responsible for creation, who plays a key role in the concept of frashokereti.

Angra Mainyu: Also known as Ahriman, Angra Mainyu is the destructive spirit in Zoroastrianism that embodies chaos and evil, opposing Ahura Mazda.