Zarathustra

Definition

Zarathustra, also known as Zoroaster, is the founder of Zoroastrianism, one of the world's oldest monotheistic religions. He is credited with introducing the concept of dualism, emphasizing the struggle between Ahura Mazda, the supreme god of light and goodness, and Angra Mainyu, the spirit of darkness and evil. Zarathustra's teachings focus on moral choice, the importance of good thoughts, words, and deeds, and the eventual triumph of good over evil.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Zarathustra is believed to have lived around the 6th century BCE, though some estimates range from 1800 to 1000 BCE.
2. His teachings formed the basis of Zoroastrianism, which profoundly influenced later religious traditions, including Judaism, Christianity, and Islam.
3. Zarathustra emphasized the importance of individual responsibility and moral choice in one's life.
4. He preached that humanity must choose between good (aligned with Ahura Mazda) and evil (aligned with Angra Mainyu), leading to consequences in this life and the afterlife.
5. Zarathustra's message was spread through oral tradition before being recorded in written form in the Avesta.

Review Questions

• How did Zarathustra's teachings introduce concepts that influenced later religious traditions?
  • Zarathustra introduced key concepts such as monotheism and moral dualism that later influenced several major religions. His ideas about a single, all-powerful god, Ahura Mazda, provided a foundational framework that can be seen in Judaism and Christianity. Additionally, his emphasis on individual moral responsibility and the cosmic struggle between good and evil shaped theological discussions in many religious contexts.
• Discuss the significance of the Avesta in preserving Zarathustra's teachings and its role in Zoroastrianism.
  • The Avesta is crucial for preserving Zarathustra's teachings as it encompasses the religious texts that outline Zoroastrian beliefs, rituals, and history. It includes hymns attributed to Zarathustra called Gathas, which are essential for understanding his philosophical ideas. The Avesta serves not only as a liturgical guide for Zoroastrians but also as a historical record of their faith and practices throughout centuries.
• Evaluate how Zarathustra's concept of dualism has impacted cultural understandings of good and evil in various societies.
  • Zarathustra's concept of dualism has significantly impacted how cultures understand the nature of good and evil. By framing existence as a struggle between Ahura Mazda and Angra Mainyu, this binary perspective has influenced moral philosophy across different societies. The idea that individuals have a choice between aligning with good or evil encourages ethical discussions in literature, philosophy, and religion globally. This framework can be observed in various narratives where protagonists face moral dilemmas representing these forces.

Related terms

Ahura Mazda:

The supreme god in Zoroastrianism, representing truth, light, and goodness.

Avesta:

The sacred texts of Zoroastrianism, containing hymns, rituals, and teachings attributed to Zarathustra.

Dualism:

The religious concept that emphasizes the struggle between two opposing forces: good and evil.