Zoroastrianism

Zoroastrianism is one of the world's oldest continuously practiced religions. It originated in ancient Iran, traditionally attributed to the prophet Zoroaster (Zarathustra) around 1200–1000 BCE. The faith became the state religion of the Achaemenid and later Sassanian empires and has persisted in smaller communities in Iran, India (the Parsis), and among global diasporas.

Central to Zoroastrianism is the worship of Ahura Mazda, the supreme creator associated with wisdom and order. The religion presents a cosmic struggle between Ahura Mazda and Angra Mainyu (the destructive spirit). Adherents strive to live according to Asha, the divine order of truth, and to resist Druj, deceit. The Amesha Spentas are benevolent emanations of Ahura Mazda, and Yazatas are other divine beings honored in worship.

The Avesta is the primary scripture, composed of liturgical and revealed texts. The Gathas are hymns attributed to Zoroaster and form the core of the canon; other liturgical works include the Yasna and Visperad. Worship often centers on fire symbolism, conducted in fire temples; ritual purity, daily prayers, and community ceremonies are typical. Initiation (navjote) marks entry for youth, followed by the wearing of a sacred shirt (sudreh) and woolen girdle (kushti).

Zoroastrian eschatology holds that the dead undergo judgment at the Chinvat Bridge, with destinations in heaven or hell depending on the balance of good or evil in life. The ultimate renewal of the world, Frashokereti, envisions the defeat of evil and the restoration of all creation.

Historically, Zoroastrianism shaped Persian empires and influenced later Abrahamic religious ideas. In the modern era, small communities remain in Iran and India, notably the Parsis, with continued religious, charitable, and cultural institutions and a global diaspora.