What do Zoroastrians believe and what did they influence?
Zoroastrians are followers of Zoroastrianism, an ancient religion that originated in Persia (modern-day Iran) around the 6th century BCE. The primary beliefs of Zoroastrians are as follows:
1. Monotheism: Zoroastrians believe in the existence of one supreme God named Ahura Mazda, who represents truth, righteousness, and goodness.
2. Dualism: Another central belief is the concept of dualism, wherein the universe is seen as a battleground between the forces of good and evil. Ahura Mazda represents the force of good, while Angra Mainyu is the personification of evil.
3. Ethical teachings: Zoroastrians emphasize the importance of leading a righteous and moral life. They emphasize the values of truth, honesty, justice, compassion, and charity.
4. Judgment and afterlife: Zoroastrians believe in a final judgment, where every individual's deeds will be evaluated. Based on the judgment, the soul will go to either Heaven or Hell.
5. Fire worship: Zoroastrians consider fire as a symbol of purity and divinity. They worship in fire temples, where sacred fires are kept burning continuously.
The influence of Zoroastrianism has been significant on various aspects:
1. Persian Empire: Zoroastrianism was the state religion of the ancient Persian Empire, and it played a central role in shaping the empire's culture and governance.
2. Abrahamic religions: Zoroastrianism had a significant impact on the development of Abrahamic religions like Judaism, Christianity, and Islam. Concepts such as monotheism, the belief in a final judgment, and the struggle between good and evil have similarities with these religions.
3. Moral concepts: Zoroastrianism introduced moral concepts and ethical teachings that influenced various cultures and societies. Ideas like the importance of truth, justice, and charity have resonated in multiple religious and philosophical traditions.
4. Fire temples: Zoroastrian fire temples popularized the use of fire as a religious symbol, which can be seen in various cultures and religions today.
Despite being a minority religion, Zoroastrianism continues to be practiced by a small community mainly in Iran and India, preserving its unique beliefs and rituals.