What is Zoroastrianism

Zoroastrianism is one of the world’s oldest monotheistic religions, originating in ancient Persia (modern-day Iran) around the second millennium BCE. It has profoundly influenced later religious traditions, especially Judaism, Christianity, and Islam, with its distinct teachings on cosmic dualism, ethical living, and the ultimate triumph of good over evil.

Origins and Founder
Zoroastrianism was founded by the prophet Zarathustra (Zoroaster), who is believed to have received a divine revelation from Ahura Mazda, the Wise Lord and supreme God. Zarathustra emphasized worship of Ahura Mazda, who embodies truth, wisdom, and the creative force behind the universe.

Core Beliefs
Ahura Mazda: The center of Zoroastrian faith is the worship of Ahura Mazda, who is omniscient, omnipotent, and wholly benevolent. Ahura Mazda’s attributes include truth, light, purity, and order.

Dualism: Zoroastrianism teaches a cosmic dualism between Ahura Mazda and Angra Mainyu (Ahriman)—the evil spirit. The universe is seen as a battleground between forces of good and evil, light and darkness. While Ahura Mazda represents order (Asha), Angra Mainyu embodies chaos and deception (Druj).

Good Thoughts, Words, and Deeds: The primary ethical principle—“Good Thoughts, Good Words, Good Deeds”—guides Zoroastrian life. Every individual must strive to promote goodness and truth through their actions, speech, and intentions.

Free Will and Moral Choice: Humans possess free will and must consciously choose between good and evil. This choice determines the fate of the soul after death.

Judgment and Afterlife: Upon death, the soul’s good and bad deeds are weighed. The soul either crosses safely to heaven or falls into hell until a final, universal judgment, after which all souls are ultimately purified and evil is destroyed.

Scriptures and Practices
Sacred Texts: The main scripture is the Avesta, especially its oldest part, the Gathas—hymns attributed directly to Zarathustra. These texts prescribe rituals, prayers, and ethical guidance.

Fire and Purity: Fire is a sacred symbol of Ahura Mazda’s light and wisdom and is present in all temples. Zoroastrians observe strict laws of ritual cleanliness and purity, emphasizing respect for fire, water, earth, and air.

Prayers and Rituals: Daily prayers, ritual washing, and wearing a ceremonial cord (kusti) are common practices. Many Zoroastrians also participate in festivals and ceremonies marking important life events and seasonal changes