Philosophy Comparative Religion Questions Medium
Zoroastrianism is one of the oldest known religions, founded by the prophet Zoroaster (or Zarathustra) in ancient Persia around the 6th century BCE. It is a monotheistic religion that emphasizes the eternal struggle between good and evil, and the importance of individual choice in aligning oneself with the forces of good.
The main beliefs of Zoroastrianism can be summarized as follows:
1. Monotheism: Zoroastrians believe in one supreme deity called Ahura Mazda, who is the creator and sustainer of the universe. Ahura Mazda is considered to be all-knowing, all-powerful, and benevolent.
2. Dualism: Zoroastrianism posits a dualistic worldview, where the universe is seen as a battleground between the forces of good (represented by Ahura Mazda) and evil (represented by Angra Mainyu or Ahriman). This cosmic struggle is believed to continue until the final triumph of good over evil.
3. Ethical Dualism: Zoroastrianism places a strong emphasis on ethical behavior and the power of individual choice. Humans are seen as active participants in the cosmic struggle, and they are expected to align themselves with the forces of good through righteous thoughts, words, and deeds.
4. Judgment and Afterlife: Zoroastrians believe in the judgment of souls after death. The soul is believed to undergo a judgment process, where its actions in life are weighed against a feather. Depending on the balance of good and evil deeds, the soul will either be rewarded with eternal bliss in the spiritual realm (Heaven) or face punishment in the realm of darkness (Hell).
5. Rituals and Practices: Zoroastrian worship takes place in fire temples, where fire is considered a sacred symbol of purity and divine presence. Prayers are recited multiple times a day, and rituals involve offerings of fruits, flowers, and other symbolic items. Zoroastrians also practice rituals for purification and cleanliness, such as ritual baths.
6. Respect for Nature: Zoroastrianism promotes a deep reverence for nature and the environment. The religion encourages responsible stewardship of the Earth and advocates for the protection and preservation of the natural world.
It is important to note that Zoroastrianism has significantly declined in numbers over the centuries, and today it is primarily practiced by a small community of followers, mainly in Iran and India. However, its influence can still be seen in various aspects of Persian culture and has had a significant impact on the development of other major religions, such as Judaism, Christianity, and Islam.