زرتشتی
Zoroastrianism, one of the earliest monotheistic religions in the world, has been embedded within Persian culture since its founding in ancient Iran around 1500 BCE. It was the official religion of the Persian Empire. Influencing modern religions today, such as Judaism, Christianity, and Islam, Zoroastrianism was founded by the prophet Zoroaster (Zarathustra), who received a vision from Ahura Mazda, who emphasized the importance of one god. Zoroaster believed his mission was to spread these teachings to others from Ahura Mazda. The forces of good and evil are heavily moralized concepts. Ahura Mazda, who existed eternally and was the creator of the universe, representing the good, created the world and knew Angra Mainyu, the forces of evil, would try to attack it, causing a longing fight between the two. Angra Mainyu was the darkness that sought to destroy Ahura Mazda and his creations, making the world constantly struggle. These dualistic views established the core beliefs of Zoroastrianism: the balance of good and evil. Zoroastrians believe evil is only temporary in our world, but through good thought, deeds, and words, Angra Mainyu can be defeated, and Ahura Mazda’s principles will triumph over evil forces.
Maintaining the inevitable humanistic traits of good and evil within everyone. Zoroastrians emphasize the three principles اندیشه ، گفتار و کردار نیک در پیام زرتشت (good thoughts, words, and deeds) which reflect the holistic approach of life. Good thoughts align with Ahura Mazda’s teachings of displaying truth and wisdom, reflecting good words. When you think good thoughts, the words you utter will be positive and promote kindness. Through one’s good thoughts and words, a person’s actions follow, manifesting goodness and truthfulness in their deeds. These founding principles allow Zoroastrans to participate in their battle against evil.
The four elements—earth, fire, water, air, and soil—are sacred and symbolize life’s essential forces. Fire and the sun expressly represent the light from Ahura Mazda, where Ahura Mazda is light itself. In many temples, this is why Zoroastrians pray towards the sun, light, and fire. A sacred fire in Zoroastrian temples is continuously burning to maintain the light and guidance of Ahura Mazda. The other elements, air, water, and soil, are also essential in their faith. Water symbolizes the purity and cleansing for all of life. While air is vital for living, it represents connecting with all living things. Soil supports growth and sustains life. These four elements are viewed as sacred, each representing life's meaning. Zoroastrians believe it is their responsibility to protect and preserve the earth’s natural resources, aligning with the principles of good thoughts, deeds, and words.
Although the number of Zoroastrian followers has drastically decreased, the founding principles of maintaining good thoughts, deeds, and words remain deeply influential in Persian culture. As a young child, my family instilled these three principles in my life. Explaining the importance of having good thoughts because they create honesty and wisdom within oneself. The good words we spread to others allow us to have compassion and respect for one another. Good deeds, formulated from our good thoughts and words, show someone's character and values. On the last Wednesday of the year before Nowruz (Persian New Year), my family celebrates by jumping over fire (چهارشنبه سوری), an ancient Zoroastrian ritual. While jumping over the fire, we say,
“زردی من از تو، سر خی تو از من” which translates to “May my paleness be yours, and may your redness be mine.” This statement is said to transfer your troubles to the fire. As you enter the new year, the fire cleanses the body and spirit from the old year. Although I do not practice Zoroastrianism, I follow these teachings to honor my heritage and continue a tradition of living righteously.
~aerisjoon
Iran Chamber Society: Religion in Iran: Zoroaster and Zoroastrians in Iran. (2024). Iranchamber.com. https://www.iranchamber.com/religions/articles/zoroaster_zoroastrians_in_iran.php
Zoroastrianism - Ahura Mazda, Dualism, Fire Worship | Britannica. (2024). Encyclopedia Britannica. https://www.britannica.com/topic/Zoroastrianism/Beliefs-and-mythology#ref9194
