Overview
This lecture discusses the origins, beliefs, and historical significance of Zoroastrianism, highlighting its influence on later monotheistic religions.
Origins and Historical Context
- Zoroastrianism was the main religion in ancient Persia until the Muslim conquest in 651 CE.
- Originally called Mazdaism, after its god Ahura Mazda, and sometimes known as "the good religion."
- Survives today mainly among the Parsi community in India.
- Zoroaster (also called Zarathustra), the founder, likely lived between 1200 and 1000 BCE in eastern Iran.
Core Beliefs and Teachings
- Zoroaster is seen as a religious reformer who emphasized the struggle between good and evil.
- The central god, Ahura Mazda, embodies justice and is the creator of the spiritual and material worlds.
- Ahura Mazda is surrounded by seven beneficent immortals, representing qualities followers should embody.
- The evil spirit, Ahriman (Angra Mainyu), represents falsehood and destruction.
- Humans choose between good and evil, and their actions determine their fate after death.
Morality, Judgment, and Afterlife
- Zoroastrianism introduced a strict framework of morality and the duality of good versus evil.
- Belief in an afterlife where souls are judged by Ahura Mazda after crossing the Bridge of the Requiter.
- The righteous are rewarded with everlasting joy; the wicked are condemned to misery.
- The religion includes eschatological beliefs about the end of time and the final victory of good over evil.
Influence on Other Religions
- Zoroastrian concepts influenced Judaism, Christianity, and Islam, especially ideas of judgment, resurrection, and the struggle between good and evil.
- Similarities are noted between Zoroastrian texts (the Gathas) and passages in the Hebrew Bible (e.g., Isaiah).
Key Terms & Definitions
- Zoroastrianism — Ancient Persian religion centered on Ahura Mazda and the teachings of Zoroaster.
- Ahura Mazda — The supreme god of Zoroastrianism, associated with light, truth, and creation.
- Ahriman (Angra Mainyu) — The evil spirit opposing Ahura Mazda, representing darkness and lies.
- Gathas — Hymns composed by Zoroaster, containing core Zoroastrian beliefs.
- Eschatology — Religious doctrines concerning the end times and the final fate of souls.
Action Items / Next Steps
- Review the main beliefs and historical timeline of Zoroastrianism for the next class.
- Prepare to compare Zoroastrianism with Judaism, Christianity, and Islam in upcoming sessions.