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Unit III: Early Religions Zoroastrianism

Founded by Zoroaster, a Persian priest who lived ~ 700 – 600 BC. He received a revelation; the world was ruled by one God, not many – Ahura Mazda. He spent his life preaching his revelation and converted the peoples of the Iran (Persia) and Iraq (Babylonia).

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Unit III: Early Religions Zoroastrianism

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  1. Founded by Zoroaster, a Persian priest who lived ~ 700 – 600 BC. • He received a revelation; the world was ruled by one God, not many – Ahura Mazda. • He spent his life preaching his revelation and converted the peoples of the Iran (Persia) and Iraq (Babylonia). Unit III: Early ReligionsZoroastrianism

  2. Zoroaster

  3. Legends of Zoroaster • Conceived in a flash of light – virgin birth. • Born laughing, not crying • Engaged wise men in debate at a young age • Tamed wild beasts, performed healings, drove off evil spirits • At 30, went to the desert, received his revelation.

  4. Beliefs • Ahura Mazda is the creator, good. • AngraMainyu opposes him, represents the forces of chaos, evil (nearly as powerful) • 12000 year battle between them • People must ally themselves with Ahura Mazda against the forces of darkness.

  5. Ahura Mazda

  6. Traditional Death Rituals • Bodies returned to nature, no burial, no cremation • Placed in a Dakhma, a round open air tower • The elements and scavengers destroy the body

  7. Dakhma

  8. Modern Practices • They adapt to the countries they live in • Ritual washing of the body

  9. The Soul • The Soul is accompanied by a “guardian spirit (angel)” to the Bridge of the Separator • Their deeds are judged. Go to heaven or hell.

  10. Sacred Writings • The Avestan Scriptures (Five Parts) • Hymns, prayers, laws, teachings • The Gathas are the spiritual core of the Yasna liturgy

  11. Symbols • Fire • Represents the divine presence • Burns continuously in the sanctuary. A priest maintains it

  12. Sacred Fire

  13. Zoroastrians today • 140 000 world wide • India (Parsis) –mostly in Mumbai (Bombay) • Iran • Us and Canada -- 12000

  14. FilmThe Story of Zoroastrianism • http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GGRgzFLcMMQ&feature=related 8:26

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