History of Zoroastrianism – Religion in India: Origin, Principles, Significance and More

The reformist and spiritual guide Zoroaster, also known as Zarathushtra, lived in modern-day Iran in the sixth century BCE, and it was his teachings and wisdom that established the groundwork for the ancient religion of Zoroastrianism. The dualistic cosmology of good and evil serves as its foundation. It is also of the oldest religions still in continuous practice worldwide. They are referred to as “Parsis” or “one from Persia” in India.

The topic “Zoroastrianism” is significant for the IAS Exam since it is a component of Art and Culture, which is covered in both the UPSC Mains GS-I (Art & Culture) and Prelims History sections.

What is Zoroastrianism?

One of the earliest recognised surviving faiths in the world is Zoroastrianism. Its birthplace was ancient Persia, or modern-day Iran. Iran and northern India are among its followers. The teachings of the prophet Zoroaster, also called Zarathustra, serve as the foundation for Zoroastrianism. The religion places a strong emphasis on the existence of Ahura Mazda, a supreme divinity connected to kindness, truth, and light. Zoroastrians hold that humans have the free will to choose between good and evil forces in the cosmic struggle. 

Origin of Zoroastrianism

The origin of Zoroastrianism is as follows:

• Zoroastrianism developed from a common Indo-Iranian religion approximately 3,500 years ago. It is therefore among the oldest religions still in practice.
• Most likely, it first appeared in Central Asia around the second millennium BCE.
• Under the Achaemenid, Parthian, and Sasanian dynasties, it made its way to Iran and rose in popularity.
• During its growth, the religion encountered opposition from the Jewish, Christian, and Islamic faiths.
• After the Arab conquest in 651 CE, the religion declined and Zoroastrians left the country.
• While some Parsis moved to India, several communities persisted in rural Iran.

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Principle Beliefs of Zoroastrianism

Zoroastrianism is a monotheistic religion since its core beliefs revolve around the notion of a single, all-powerful cosmic deity. Ahura Mazda, sometimes called the “Lord of Light” in Persian, is the name of this celestial being. The following are some of Zoroastrianism’s core beliefs:

Messianism: This is the concept that a group of people will be set free and saved forever by a “messiah” or saviour.

Judgement after Death: Believers in the concept of judgement after death hold that the soul is judged by Ahura Mazda after leaving this life. This will decide if it goes to heaven or hell.

Heaven and Hell Existence: Zoroastrianism offers comprehensive explanations for the existence of heaven and hell.

Free Will: The idea of free will highlights the fact that each person has the capacity to choose from a variety of options.

Zoroastrian Symbols and Their Beliefs

Numerous symbols in Zoroastrianism have deep symbolic meanings within the religion. Below are a few of the primary emblems along with the beliefs they stand for:

Faravahar: An ancient symbol of Zoroastrianism is the Faravahar. It shows a winged figure that is typically recognised as a guardian angel. This stands for the holy essence that resides inside every person.

Fire: In Zoroastrianism, fire is a sacred element that stands for holiness and heavenly light. Zoroastrians see it as a potent representation of Ahura Mazda’s presence.

Cypress Tree: In Zoroastrianism, the evergreen cypress tree is regarded as a sign of endless life. It stands for the soul’s eternal life.

Towers of Silence: Zoroastrians used to conduct a peculiar kind of interment called “sky burial.” They erected round structures known as Dakhmas, or Towers of Silence. Here, the dead were left to rot in the open and be eaten by scavenger birds. This custom represented the physical body’s return to its natural state.

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Sacred Texts of Zoroastrianism 

The Avesta is the name of Zoroastrianism’s principal sacred books. Here are a few details about them:

• The Avesta is a collection of religious texts that Zoroastrians believe to be sacred.
• Avestan is an old Iranian language used in the composition of these works.
• There are two primary divisions within the Avesta: the Older Avesta and the Younger Avesta.
• The earliest passages are found in the Older Avesta, which also includes the Gathas. These are songs that the religion’s founder, Zarathustra, also goes by the name Zoroaster.
• The Avesta is seen to have its greatest significance in the Gathas. They include the teachings and prayers of Zarathustra.
• The amount of the Younger Avesta is greater than that of the Older Avesta and it is a later compilation of holy writings.
• Priests and laypeople alike perform and recite prayers, hymns, and ceremonies included in the Younger Avesta.
• These writings cover a wide range of subjects, including religious activities, purity laws, and the worship of many deities.
• The Avesta is revered by Zoroastrians as a holy text. It teaches kids about ethics, the afterlife, and the final triumph of good over evil.

Significance of Zoroastrianism

Truth: The central theme of Zoroastrianism is truth. Man has the mental awareness to discern between what is true and what is untrue, as well as the free will to decide what is right and wrong. The first prayer said by a Zoroastrian child is an oath to honesty. Ashem Vohu, a free translation of the prayer, states that “truth is the greatest virtue.” It’s happiness. Whoever tells the truth for the sake of the truth is happy.

Charity: “He who helps the poor acknowledges God’s kingdom,” states a phrase in the “Yatha Ahu Vairyo,” the very first prayer a Zoroastrian kid learns.

Purity: Zoroastrianism places a high value on mental and physical cleanliness.

The dignity of labor: Zoroastrianism places a strong emphasis on labor’s dignity and diligence. Righteousness thrives in those who sow maize.

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