Zoroastrianism is a modern term, but how do Persian Zoroastrians call themselves? How did they call themselves in ancient times or in the Middle Ages?
Zoroastrianism is indeed a modern term, and the followers of this religion have referred to themselves by different names throughout history. In ancient times, Zoroastrians called themselves by various terms such as Mazda worshipers or Zarathustrians after their prophet Zarathustra (Zoroaster). During the Middle Ages, when Islam became dominant in Persia (now Iran), Zoroastrians were known as Gabrs or Guebers, which means "infidels" or "non-believers" in Arabic.
Today, Persian Zoroastrians call themselves either Zartoshti or Behdinan. The term "Zartoshti" comes from the Avestan word "Zarathushtra," while "Behdinan" means "followers of good religion." These terms are used interchangeably to refer to members of the Zoroastrian community regardless of where they live in the world.
It's worth noting that there are also other groups who practice forms of Iranian religions with similar beliefs but may identify differently like Yazidis and Mandaeans.
