...Zoroastrianism The Arab world is now dominated by one strong and fierce religion. But, during the dynasties of such nobles as the Achaemenids, a truly noble and proud religion appeared; Zoroastrianism. The word of this religion was brought to the world by the Persian prophet Zoroaster. The origins of the religion and the beliefs of Zoroastrianism were and still are the cornerstone of the religion. During time, the religion depleted in size because of Mohammed, who introduced and brought the faith of Islam into the world. Also, Zoroastrianism played a major part in everyday life. Because of its beliefs, Zoroastrianism could once again arise as a dominate religion. This is not just because of its beliefs, but also that its roots as a religion are strong and present in many families today. The religion of Zoroastrianism is based mainly on two aspects of life. The people who tell the truth are on the side of Asha, and are know as the people of righteousness. The others, who are know as the people of the lie, or the Druj, followed the dreary way of evil. Zoroastrianism is a polytheistic religion which shows people ways of life but lets the person make a choice of truth or lie. But, it is also believed in Zoroastrianism that a judgment day will occur when good will defeat evil. In this great battle, Ahura Mazda, the Lord wisdom would fight Angra Mainya, the Fiendish spirit for control over the world. During this war between good and evil, Ahura Mazda and his assistants...
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...Introduction Zoroastrianism, the ancient religion of Iran, was founded about 3500 years ago by the prophet Zarathushtra. He preached that Ahura Mazda, meaning “Wise Lord,” is the only omnipotent and omniscient God (Hay, 2007). Zarathushtra has been known in the West as Zoroaster, from the Greek transliteration of his name, thus the name Zoroastrianism. After the Arab’s invasion of Iran, the once popular religion was replaced by Islam and a handful follower of Zarathushtra fled from Iran to India to escape the persecution. They are known today in India as Parsis. Currently, there are approximately 250,000 people practicing Zoroastrianism, of which 80% live in India and the rest in various parts of the world including United States (Rivetna, 2002). Although Zoroastrianism lost its status as a popular world religion, its study and knowledge are very useful in our understanding of the development of religious thought in the ancient world and how some of its important beliefs and practices have parallels in other religions such as Judaism, Christianity, Islam and Hinduism. Keywords: Zoroastrianisn, Ahura Mazda, sadre, kusti Basic tenets of Zoroastrianism Jayaram (2000) discussed the Zoroastrian religion in his article “Main Beliefs of Zoroastrianism.” While Zoroastrians believe that Ahuramazda is the supreme, omniscient and omnipotent God (monotheism); they also believe in the existence of a number of divinities (polytheism) who represent His good qualities and who...
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...Zoroastrianism and Its Influences on the World With a membership of about 200,000, the importance of Zoroastrianism is far greater than its numbers suggest. Closely related to Judaism, Christianity and Islam, its concepts of Satan, angelology, demonology, a deliverer, future life, paradise and judgment in these religions may have been directly or indirectly derived from Zoroastrianism. Founded by the Iranian prophet and reformer Zoroaster in the 6th century BC, Zoroastrianism contains both monotheistic and dualistic features. Its concepts of one God, judgment, heaven and hell likely influenced the major Western religions. History of Zoroastrianism The origins of the Zoroastrian religion are shrouded in mystery. The prophet Zarathustra, later referred to by the Greeks as Zoroaster, founded Zoroastrianism roughly between the 16th and 10th centuries BCE. Zoroaster's birth date is also uncertain and modern scholarship currently suggests he lived in northern or eastern Iran or nearby such as in Afghanistan or southern Russia. In Zoroaster’s thirties he had a revelation in which he saw an angel who told him that there is only one true god and that God’s name was Aura Mazda (Clark, 1998). It is certain that by the year 549 B.C.E., Zoroastrianism had become a major world religion. It was Cyrus the Great, first ruler of the Persian Empire, who ordained Zoroastrianism as the official religion of his state. It was this same Cyrus that liberated the Jews from the occupation they...
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...The text states that a lot of the early Persian religions were very similar to what the Aryans of India practiced. The religion is loosely based on the practice of Hinduism. As time passed, the core religious practice changed. During the Classical Era (1750-1820 AD) the popular choice was Zoroastrianism (Bently and Ziegler, pg. 142). This religion was led by a man named Zarathustra, or Zoroaster, who was a Seer from Persia. He believed that he was setting out visions of a god named Ahura Mazda. According to Zarathustra, Ahura Mazda was the creator of all things sound and holy. Ahura was the true god who should be praised. However, toward the end of the of the Classical Era, three primary religions developed in Persia; Buddhism, Christianity, and Manichaeism. What the textbook fails to tell the readers is that there were different highlights within the Aryan religion (Hinduism) that took place between the Aryan’s customs and the creation of Zoroastrian. There are three primary Pre-Zoroastrian Aryan religions that are noted: mazda...
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...Zoroastrianism is believed to be one of the world's primitive monotheistic religions. Founded by the Prophet Zoroaster in prehistoric Iran about 3500 years ago. It embraced many Iranian gods merging both polytheism views and monotheistic doctrines. It is believed that many Zoroastrianism views were introduced later into Judaism, Christianity, and Islam. Views and understanding that is said to originate through Zoroastrianism. Some of the views that Zoroastrianism holds that can also be found in Judaism, Christianity, and Islam is the view of one god who is all just and compassion. Also the battle between God and Satan. Another influence that is said to have come from Zoroastrianism that other monotheistic religions also picked up was the...
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...further detail than given in the textbook the transformation of Persian religion from its Indo-European roots to Zoroastrianism. Zoroastrianism is a religion that is greatly debated on when, where, and how it came into existence. Zoroastrianism is based on a Persian Prophet named Zoroaster or his Greek name Zarathustra, meaning “shining Light”. Persian texts explain that Zarathustra lived “258 years before Alexander, that is, about 600 years BC”. Though greatly debated and seemingly obscure as to when Zoroaster was born most scholars can agree that it was sometime between 1500 and 1200 BC (Contractor, Dinshaw and Hutoxy). Zarathustra is believed to be a Priest that came from an aristocratic family. It is said that he was discontent with “the traditional religion and its concentration on bloody sacrifices and mechanical rituals” leading to his search for wisdom. After a decade of travel Zarathustra had “a series of visions and became convinced that the supreme god, whom he called Ahura Mazda, had chosen him to serve as his prophet and spread his message” (Bentley & Zeigler p 142)....
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...Influence of Zoroastrianism on Some Important Beliefs of Judaism and Christianity In order to have a greater understanding of current religions, it is necessary to have an understanding of past religions, even those of ancient times. From as early as 4000 BCE when mythical Egyptian gods were recorded, to the writings of the New Testament in the last half of the first century AD, to rejection of several teachings and practices of the Roman Catholic Church by Martin Luther, older religious beliefs have influenced those that followed. Over time, whether from divine revelation or self-proclamation, humans came to new understandings or found disagreement with established religions or belief systems. One lesser known religion that has had major influence on modern Judaism and Christianity is Zoroastrianism. Zoroastrianism is credited by many researchers and scholars as the first religion to present the concepts of monotheism (one supreme god), dualism (the concepts of good and evil), the apocalypse when good triumphs over evil (Satan), and the conscious choice of good over evil in order to be admitted to heaven as opposed to being banished to hell. As with most religions, Zoroastrianism has a founder, Zarathustra (from the Greek), also known as Zoroaster. Mary Boyce in her work, Zorastrians, Their Religious Beliefs and Practices, says Zoroaster lived in the area of ancient Persia (which includes today's Iran), some time between 1700 and 1500 BCE, but other sources...
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...WRITING ASSIGNMENT 1 1. To what did the Latin religio refer? a) The Latin word L. religionem (nom. Religio) is defined as “a respect for what is scared, reverence for the gods”, and according to the text refers to the fear or awe a person feels in the presence of a spirit or a god. 2. Taoism and Confucianism are nontheistic religions, that is, religions for which belief in God or gods is nonessential. While gods are not alien to either Taoism or Confucianism, belief in/of gods is not central to either tradition. What are a couple of other religions that can be called nontheistic religions? a) A few additional examples of some nontheistic religions are Agnosticism, Atheism, Buddhism, Secular Humanism and Scientology. 3. What is Paul Tillich's definition for religion, and why do Hopfe and Woodward consider its development too broad? a) Paul Tillich defines religion as, “that which is of ultimate concern”. Hopfe and Woodward consider the development of Tillich’s definition of religion too broad for a world religions course because a philosophical exploration of Tillich’s definition of religion, yields many an individuals personal belief of what is of ultimate concern hardly lending to the general understanding of popular or mainstream religions they hope to accomplish in this text. 4. Explain E. B. Tylor's theory concerning the origin and evolution of religion. What is animism, and to what, "ultimately" and "finally," did Tylor think it evolved? a) E.B. Tylor’s theory...
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...Zoroastrianism at a glance Zoroastrianism is one of the world's oldest monotheistic religions. It was founded by the Prophet Zoroaster (or Zarathustra) in ancient Iran approximately 3500 years ago. For 1000 years Zoroastrianism was one of the most powerful religions in the world. It was the official religion of Persia (Iran) from 600 BCE to 650 CE. It is now one of the world's smallest religions. In 2006 the New York Times reported that there were probably less than 190,000 followers worldwide at that time. * Zoroastrians believe there is one God called Ahura Mazda (Wise Lord) and He created the world. * Zoroastrians are not fire-worshippers, as some Westerners wrongly believe. Zoroastrians believe that the elements are pure and that fire represents God's light or wisdom. * Ahura Mazda revealed the truth through the Prophet, Zoroaster. * Zoroastrians traditionally pray several times a day. * Zoroastrians worship communally in a Fire Temple or Agiary. * The Zoroastrian book of Holy Scriptures is called The Avesta. * The Avesta can be roughly split into two main sections: * The Avesta is the oldest and core part of the scriptures, which contains the Gathas. The Gathas are seventeen hymns thought to be composed by Zoroaster himself. * The Younger Avesta - commentaries to the older Avestan written in later years. It also contains myths, stories and details of ritual observances. * Zoroastrians are roughly split into two groups: ...
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...Chapter 8,9,& 10 1. Are Taoism and Confucianism truly religions argue both sides. Taoism and Confucianism are two very different religious traditions of ancient China. Both Taoism and Confucianism cannot clearly be explained as a religion with certain doctrines and rituals as other well –known religions. As religious and social forces, they have coexisted for centuries in China and have spread to other Asian regions. The name Taoism is taken from the title of the book called “Tao Te Ching, which translates to “the way of nature. Taoism is based on the ancient Chinese understanding of the universe. Historically, the origin of Taoist philosophy is unclear, but it is said that the founder of Taoism is Lao-tzu, who lived in the sixth century B.C.E. Taoism can be described in terms of its history and its effects on Chinese people, nut it cannot be clearly delineated as a religion with a certain body of doctrine and rituals of Chinese antiquity. Philosophically, for Taoism, the ideal life is one that is lived in harmony with the way of this shifting nature. By the early centuries of the Common Era, Taoism had been converted into a religion complete with gods, priests, temples and sacrifices. In the modern days, Taoism is mainly associated with charms, exorcisms and magical attempts to prolong life, in which there is a self-generating force called chi (rather than there being a Creator Deity). This force manifests two interplaying aspects: yin and yang. Yin is the dark...
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...Origins of Religion • The First Civilizations • Early Religious Patterns • Religion was centered around capricious entities that needed to be appeased – The Phoenicians: • Baal Hammon (male storm god) and Tanit (female fertility figure) • Tophets (walled cemetries) excavated reveal that often children were sacrificed • Prehistoric Communities • Paleolithic and Neolithic Settlements • Life in Neolithic communities led to the development of art and religion. There was a belief in a higher power. Mother Earth (source of all new life) and Father Sky (all powerful). There is also evidence of burial of the dead. • Neolithic Religion • Led to reverence of ancestors – Old persons often received elaborate burials • Religious worship of early farming communities were centered around Mother Earth (source of life)and Sky God(all powerful male) • Megaliths were erected to relate to religious beliefs • Megaliths included burial chambers, calendar circles, or marking celestial occurrences – Rising sun, solstices, equinoxes • Neolithic goddess • Life in New Towns and Villages • Religious shrines could be found (2 per household) – A goddess was the venerated central deity • Metalworking became a predominant activity around 6400 BC – Abundance of copper and lead in the area – Gold and silver also appear • Farmers had to produce...
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...Shintoism and Zoroastrianism ENG 215-Strayer University July 26, 2013 Shintoism and Zoroastrianism Shintoism, the native religious practice of the Japanese people, teaches its followers to honor many deities. It is more of a spiritual practice than a religion and it focuses on connecting the follower with his ancestry through certain forms of worship dedicated to one’s ancestors. The word Shinto means “Way of the Gods”. Shintoism also teaches its followers that every aspect of nature is sacred. This includes an ardent love and appreciation for mountains, seas, plants, and animals [ (Video: Shintoism: Mystical Spirit of the East) ]. This notion can be applied to my life by allowing me to have a greater appreciation for nature and all living creatures. Shintoism connects the follower with his past and using this notion could help me to understand the importance of my own background and forefathers. Zoroastrianism is another religious practice which highlights the importance of gods and ancestry. It is an ancient Iranian religion which is also known as Mazdayansnian. The creed by which Zoroastrianism operates encourages one to put down their “weapons” and appreciate the beauty in nature. This religious practice is very similar to Shintoism in its spiritual aspect. Both practices celebrate nature and the spiritual aspects of life. Both religions also have many deities or gods that are followed [ (Article: The Zoroastrian Creed) ]. Zoroastrianism offers concepts...
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...4. Compare the political systems of the Persian Empire and of Greece. What factors best explain the differences between Persian and Greek culture? Why did the Persians and the Greeks come into conflict? What factors contributed to the demise of the Persian Empire? There are precious few similarities between the political systems of the two civilizations; in fact they were almost diametrically opposite each other. The Persian Empire started with Cyrus, who united the Persians and overthrew the Medes, prompting the two similar cultures to blend. The empire reached its fullest extent under Darius I, who built its basic governmental structure: provinces governed by satraps, tribute money funneled to the center, and a decentralized legal system. An extensive road and post system connected the imperial center because the Persian Empire was the largest empire in the world at that time. The Persian government demonstrated flexibility and tolerance in its handling of the laws, customs, and beliefs of subject peoples. The Persian administration superimposed on top of local structures and the Persians also displayed a flair for public relations. The Zoroastrian religion underlined the authority of the king as the appointee of god, champion of justice, and defender of world order against evil and destructive forces. By imposing a uniform system of law and administration and by providing security and stability, the Persian government fostered commerce and prosperity. -The Greece consisted...
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...Waters, Matt. “Cyrus and the Achaemenids”. Iran 42 (2004): 91–102. Web. The Feeling of Victory. The Agony of Defeat. The Fires of Rebirth. The Joy of Conquest. The reign of the Achaemenid Dynasty of the Persian Empire, or the Achaemenid Empire, was riddled with emotions and success. It’s everlasting influence that still inspires us to this day leads some historians to deem the Achaemenids, one of the most powerful and influential empires in history (Zeinert 70). The Achaemenid Empire’s influence was only increased by their legendary battles with the Greek. The area from which the Achaemenid Empire sprang(current day Iran) was inhabited by several other peoples before the Achaemenids called it their home. The area was first inhabited by nomads known as parsua who came from a territory located north of the Persian Gulf in southwestern Iran (Zeinart 8). The Achaemenid Empire was not the first Iranian empire, as by 6th century BC another group of ancient Iranian peoples had already established the Median Empire. The Medes were originally the dominant Iranian group in the region, rising to power at the end of the 7th century BC and initially falling to the powerful Assyrian Empire (911–609 BC), only to later reemerge. At around 650 B.C.E, the Medes attacked the powerful kingdom of Fars and won. As per the custom at the time, the ruler of Fars pledged his allegiance to the ruler of Medes and was able to retain his crown and power over his people, known as the Achaemenians...
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... 8. Safavid Empire (460-461) Ismail, the ancestor of Safi al-Din, founded the Safavid Empire and used Persian methods of ruling. He expanded his region over regions such as the Iranian plateau, Caucus, and central Asia. Ismail established his political base at the tomb of Safi al-Din. In an attempt to find favor in the eyes of Turkish in the region, the Safavids decided to convert to a form of Shiism - he forced the Sunnis to convert to the religion, Twelver Shiism. Twelver Shiism was a religion where it was believed that there were twelve religious rulers after Muhammad, but the twelfth hid. Believers thought that the 12th would come back one day, and many even believed that Ismail was the 12th. The followers of this religion wore red hats and were called qizilbash. A group of formidable foes to Ismail were the Sunni Ottomans due to the spread of the Shiism religion. This lead to the Battle of Chaldiran between the Safavids and the Ottoman people. Although the Ottomans were able to occupy the empire, both the Ottomans and Safavids continued to fight for the next 200 years. Shah Abbas the Great completely changed the Safavid empire. The capital was changed to Isfahan, which lead to more trade with other regions, and renovated the governmental and military systems. With the renovated army, Shah Abbas the Great conquered regions such as the Caucaus and Mesopotamia. 9. Suleyman (459) Suleyman the Magnificent brought the Ottoman empire to its height. He took over Baghdad, the Tigris...
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