Zoroastrianism, one of the world's oldest monotheistic religions, originated in ancient Persia with the prophet Zarathustra (Zoroaster). It introduced revolutionary concepts like heaven, hell, judgment after death, and the eternal battle between good (Asha) and evil (Druj), represented by the god Ahura Mazda and the evil spirit Angra Mainyu. Ritual purity, fire symbolism, and yearly festivals are key practices. Despite its historical significance and influence on Abrahamic religions, Zoroastrianism faces declining numbers due to persecution and reluctance to accept converts.
Here are the key facts extracted from the text:
1. Zoroastrianism is an ancient religion originating from Persia (modern-day Iran).
2. The prophet Zarathustra, also known as Zoroaster in Greek, is considered the founder of Zoroastrianism.
3. The exact date of Zarathustra's life is uncertain, with estimates ranging from 1400 to 1200 BCE or around 800 BCE.
4. Prior to Zarathustra, the religion in Persia was polytheistic, closely connected to the Vedic tradition in India.
5. Zarathustra likely belonged to a class of priests similar to the Brahmins in India.
6. During his travels, Zarathustra sought wisdom and truth and was influenced by the injustice he observed.
7. Zarathustra's life changed dramatically after a vision of the god Ahura Mazda during a spring festival.
8. Ahura Mazda was an exalted god in the Persian pantheon before Zarathustra's revelation.
9. After his revelation, Ahura Mazda became the uncreated eternal God and creator of everything good.
10. Ahura Mazda represents Asha, the order of the universe, righteousness, and justice.
11. The opposite of Asha is druj, associated with evil, falsehood, and violence.
12. Angra Mainyu, or the hostile spirit, is responsible for creating evil forces.
13. Zoroastrianism views creation as a battlefield between Asha and druj.
14. Zarathustra left behind hymns known as the Gathas, part of the sacred texts called the Avesta.
15. The theological nature of Zoroastrianism is debated as either monotheistic or dualistic.
16. Fire and water are important symbols in Zoroastrian ritual practice.
17. Zoroastrianism has influenced other world religions with concepts like heaven, hell, resurrection, and judgment day.
18. The Achaemenid Empire adopted Zoroastrianism as a state religion.
19. Zoroastrianism has declined since the Arab invasion and advent of Islam.
20. Today's Zoroastrian population is estimated to be slightly above 100,000 people.
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