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Zoroastrianism
Ancient Iranian religion centered on the worship of Ahura Mazda
Overview
Zoroastrianism is one of the world's oldest continuously practiced religions, founded by the prophet Zoroaster (Zarathustra) in ancient Persia roughly 3,500 years ago. Once the state religion of the Persian Empire, it now has around 100,000–200,000 followers, primarily Parsis in India and Iranian Zoroastrians. It profoundly influenced Judaism, Christianity, and Islam through concepts of heaven, hell, judgment, and a cosmic struggle between good and evil.
Key Beliefs
- Ahura Mazda is the one supreme creator god
- Cosmic struggle between good (Spenta Mainyu) and evil (Angra Mainyu)
- Free will: humans must choose good thoughts, good words, good deeds
- Fire as a symbol of divine purity and truth
- Final judgment and resurrection of the dead
Core Practices
- Prayer five times a day facing a source of light
- Tending the sacred fire in fire temples
- Wearing the sudreh (sacred shirt) and kusti (sacred cord)
- Celebrating Nowruz and other seasonal festivals
- Practicing 'good thoughts, good words, good deeds'
Learn about the Religious Values Test
Discover how your beliefs align with Zoroastrianism and other traditions