What are the core beliefs of Zoroastrianism?

I. Historical Background

Zoroastrianism, sometimes referred to as Mazdayasna, is traditionally traced back to the teachings of the prophet Zoroaster (also called Zarathustra). Many scholars place his life somewhere between 1500 and 1000 BC, though specific dating varies. The religion became prominent in ancient Persia (modern-day Iran) and significantly influenced the spiritual and cultural life of the region.

Although exact historical details about Zoroaster’s life are debated, numerous references in ancient Persian records, including archaeological and historical findings such as inscriptions from the Achaemenid Empire, point toward Zoroastrianism’s longstanding heritage. One well-known example is the Behistun Inscription of Darius I (dating to roughly the late 6th century BC), which displays the prominence of Ahura Mazda, the Zoroastrian deity.

II. Foundational Texts

The central scriptures of Zoroastrianism are contained in the Avesta, which is divided into various sections:

• The Gathas (the oldest portion, traditionally attributed to Zoroaster himself).

• The Yasna (liturgical texts including the Gathas).

• The Visperad (supplementary texts for worship).

• The Vendidad (focused on ritual purity laws, ethical and public regulations).

• Various other minor texts and prayers.

Zoroastrian tradition upholds these texts for guidance on worship, doctrine, and life practices. However, it should be noted that the surviving Avesta is only a fraction of what was historically preserved in earlier centuries.

III. Central Theological Concepts

1. Ahura Mazda as Supreme Deity

Zoroastrianism proclaims belief in one supreme deity, Ahura Mazda, translated as “Wise Lord.” He is regarded as the creator of the universe and the source of all righteousness, pointing to a form of monotheism in Zoroastrian belief.

2. Dualistic Tension

A pronounced element of Zoroastrian theology is the interplay between Asha (truth, order) and Druj (falsehood, chaos). This dualistic strain sees Ahura Mazda as the essence of good, opposed by Angra Mainyu (Ahriman), the destructive spirit. Over history, Zoroastrian texts have emphasized upholding truth and fighting deceit, reflecting a moral conflict at the core of the faith.

3. Cosmic Struggle

The cosmic battle between good and evil influences human moral choices. Zoroastrianism teaches that, ultimately, good (Ahura Mazda) will triumph. This eschatological perspective shapes followers’ ethical behavior, as they see themselves as participants in this grand struggle against darkness.

IV. Key Figures

1. Zoroaster (Zarathustra)

He is the tradition’s foremost prophet and is believed to have received revelation from Ahura Mazda. Legend suggests Zoroaster underwent spiritual experiences leading to his message centered on righteousness, truth, and devotion to the Wise Lord.

2. Later Influencers

Various high priests and magi in Persia influenced Zoroastrianism’s development over centuries, especially during the Achaemenid (550–330 BC), Parthian (247 BC–224 AD), and Sassanian (224–651 AD) Empires. Some archaeological sites, such as the ruins of Persepolis, include inscriptions praising Ahura Mazda, underscoring this religion’s enduring impact.

V. Worship and Rituals

1. Fire Temples

Zoroastrians often worship in fire temples where a sacred flame is kept continuously burning. Fire symbolizes purity and the presence of Ahura Mazda. Worship includes prayers, liturgies, and offerings before the sacred flame.

2. Ritual Purity

Ritual purity is a central focus, with specific rites for cleansing to maintain holiness. The Vendidad prescribes guidelines for how adherents should handle various impurities and maintain personal and communal cleanliness.

3. Prayer and Daily Conduct

Daily prayers are recited facing a source of light, again symbolically turning to righteousness and rejecting spiritual darkness. Zoroastrian ethical standards require good thoughts, good words, and good deeds.

VI. Moral and Ethical Teachings

1. Emphasis on Righteousness (Asha)

Zoroastrianism’s moral framework revolves around living in harmony with Asha, or truth. Humanity is encouraged to exhibit honesty, integrity, and helpfulness to others.

2. Free Will and Moral Choice

Each person is believed to have a part in the cosmic battle between good and evil, and free will is paramount. Individuals must choose virtuous conduct over deceit or pettiness.

3. Charity and Care for Creation

Caring for the marginalized and protecting nature are also taught. Zoroastrianism holds that humans are entrusted with stewarding the world, reflecting a sense of responsibility akin to a caretaker.

VII. Eschatology

1. Judgment at Death

According to Zoroastrian texts, upon death, souls cross the “Chinvat Bridge,” where a reward or punishment is determined based on earthly deeds. Those living righteously are said to pass over safely, while evildoers risk peril.

2. Final Restoration

Zoroastrian teaching includes a prophecy of a final renovation (Frashokereti), in which evil is eternally defeated, and the world is refreshed into a perfected state under Ahura Mazda’s goodness.

VIII. Modern Practice and Demographics

Zoroastrians today are found primarily in Iran and India (where they are known as Parsis). Smaller communities exist worldwide, preserving traditional rituals while also adapting to changing contexts. Although only numbering a few hundred thousand worldwide, Zoroastrianism retains cultural and religious significance, apparent in festivals like Nowruz (the Persian New Year), which marks spring’s renewal and has roots in Zoroastrian concepts of righteousness and purification.

IX. Comparison with Scripture

While Zoroastrianism posits a cosmic battle between good and evil, Scripture testifies that the one true God is sovereign at all times (cf. Isaiah 46:9–10: “I am God, and there is no other; I am God, and there is none like Me. I declare the end from the beginning…”). The dualistic strain of Zoroastrianism, which sees an enduring conflict between Ahura Mazda and Angra Mainyu, stands apart from biblical teaching, where evil is acknowledged but ultimately subordinate to the eternal Creator (Job 1:6–12; Colossians 1:16–17).

Equally, whereas Zoroastrianism places emphasis on crossing the Chinvat Bridge, Scripture affirms that “it is appointed for men to die once, and after this comes judgment” (Hebrews 9:27). Salvation and eternal life, according to Scripture, rest solely in the resurrected Christ (John 11:25–26: “I am the resurrection and the life. Whoever believes in Me will live, even though he dies.”).

X. Conclusion

Zoroastrianism’s core beliefs center on Ahura Mazda as the supreme deity, the tension between truth and falsehood, ritual purity, moral living, and an ultimate restoration of the world. Rooted in ancient Persia, it influenced subsequent religious thought by its emphasis on individual moral responsibility and final judgment. Adherents uphold their sacred texts—the Avesta—and maintain enduring traditions of worship, especially concerning fire as a symbol of timeless purity.

From a comprehensive standpoint, the religion underscores virtuous conduct, devotion to the Wise Lord, and a focus on future hope for cosmic renewal. Its long history, cultural imprint, and moral teachings make it a subject of continued scholarly and interfaith interest. Yet, through the lens of Scripture (cf. 2 Timothy 3:16: “All Scripture is God-breathed…”), ultimate hope and salvation come through the victory over sin and death accomplished by God’s work, culminating in the resurrection.