Zoroastrianism

Definition

Zoroastrianism is one of the world’s oldest monotheistic religions, founded by the prophet Zoroaster in ancient Persia around the 6th century BCE. It centers on the worship of Ahura Mazda, the supreme god, and emphasizes the duality of good and evil, human agency, and the importance of moral choices. This religion played a significant role in shaping the cultural and religious landscape of Persia, particularly in relation to imperial portraiture and propaganda.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Zoroastrianism teaches that individuals have the free will to choose between good and evil, which directly affects their fate after death.
2. The religion emphasizes the importance of truth-telling, charity, and respect for nature, influencing Persian culture and governance.
3. Kings and emperors of Persia often used Zoroastrian imagery and themes in their portraiture to legitimize their rule and connect themselves with divine authority.
4. Fire is a central symbol in Zoroastrianism, representing purity and the presence of Ahura Mazda, often featured prominently in temples and rituals.
5. The decline of Zoroastrianism began with the advent of Islam in Persia during the 7th century CE, leading to significant changes in religious practice and identity in the region.

Review Questions

• How did Zoroastrianism influence Persian imperial portraiture during its height?
  • Zoroastrianism significantly influenced Persian imperial portraiture by encouraging rulers to depict themselves as divinely appointed leaders. Artworks often included symbols of Ahura Mazda or portrayed kings in ways that highlighted their connection to divine authority. This portrayal reinforced the idea that their power was sanctioned by a higher moral order, legitimizing their rule through religious belief.
• In what ways did the themes of good versus evil in Zoroastrianism reflect the political propaganda used by Persian emperors?
  • The themes of good versus evil in Zoroastrianism were skillfully employed in political propaganda by Persian emperors to frame their battles against enemies as a struggle between light and darkness. This dichotomy not only elevated their military campaigns but also depicted them as protectors of order against chaos. By aligning themselves with Ahura Mazda's will, emperors could present their conquests as righteous endeavors.
• Evaluate the lasting impacts of Zoroastrianism on modern religious thought and its historical significance in shaping cultural identity in Persia.
  • Zoroastrianism's lasting impact on modern religious thought is seen in its concepts of heaven and hell, judgment, and individual accountability which have influenced other major religions. Historically, it shaped cultural identity in Persia by establishing a framework for morality and governance that emphasized justice and truth. Even after its decline with the rise of Islam, elements of Zoroastrian philosophy persisted within Persian culture, influencing various aspects of ethics and spirituality that continue to resonate today.

Related terms

Ahura Mazda: The supreme god in Zoroastrianism, representing all that is good and light, in constant opposition to Angra Mainyu, the spirit of evil.

Avestan: The ancient language in which the sacred texts of Zoroastrianism, known as the Avesta, were written.

Angra Mainyu: The evil spirit in Zoroastrian belief that embodies chaos and destruction, opposing the will of Ahura Mazda.