gathas

The Gathas are a collection of 17 hymns traditionally attributed to Zoroaster (Zarathustra), the founder of Zoroastrianism. They constitute the oldest and most authoritative layer of the Avesta, the sacred scriptures of Zoroastrianism, and are composed in the Avestan language. Although commonly treated as Zoroaster’s own utterances, modern scholarship recognizes that the exact authorship and date are uncertain and may reflect later compilations or redactions by followers.

The Gathas are central to Zoroastrian theology and ethics. They present Ahura Mazda as the supreme, intelligent creator and advocate of truth; articulate the concept of asha, the cosmic order and righteousness; and describe the ongoing struggle between the forces of order and chaos, personified as Angra Mainyu. A recurring ethical motif is the triad of good thoughts, good words, and good deeds, summarized as the path of truth and righteousness.

In the Avesta, the Gathas are embedded within the liturgical Yasna, not as a separate book. They are characterized by archaic diction and concise poetry that conveys doctrinal points and exhortation rather than mythic narrative.

Scholarly study emphasizes the Gathas for their linguistic features, historical context, and influence on later Zoroastrianism and Iranian thought. Translations and commentaries have been produced by scholars such as James Darmesteter and Mary Boyce, and debates continue regarding precise dating, editorial history, and the interpretation of key terms such as asha and the nature of Ahura Mazda.