Summary

Zoroastrianism, the smallest of the world’s great religions, is also one of the oldest. Founded more than 3,000 years ago by the prophet Zarathustra, it flourished in ancient Persia during the time of the Persian Empire. Scholars have long acknowledged the contributions of Zoroastrianism to other faiths, including Judaism, Christianity, Islam, and Buddhism. Concepts such as the notion of one God, heaven and hell, the dualism of good and evil, a savior to come, and everlasting life can trace their roots to the religion of Zarathustra. 

Zoroastrianism, Fourth Edition traces the history and beliefs of Zoroastrianism and its followers’ determination through centuries of persecution and hardship into the present day. The Iranian and Indian Zoroastrian communities in which the religion has thrived without missionary efforts or vast numbers of believers is also explored. Engaging sidebars, recommendations for further reading, a list of websites for additional information, and full-color photographs add to the well-written text. A glossary and bibliography make research easy and enjoyable for students.

Coverage includes:

• The message of the prophet Zarathustra
• The sacred fire
• Zoroastrianism throughout history
• The Zoroastrian scripture, the Avesta
• Rituals, beliefs, and rites of passage
• Traditional versus updated Zoroastrianism.

Specifications

eBook

About the Author(s)

The late Paula R. Hartz was a teacher and a textbook editor, and specialized in writing nonfiction and educational materials for elementary and secondary school students. She was the author of Baha'i Faith, Daoism, Native American Religions, and Shinto, all from Facts On File's World Religions series. 

Series editor Joanne O'Brien has an M.A. degree in theology and has written a range of education and general reference books on religion and contemporary culture. She is coauthor, with Martin Palmer and Elizabeth Breuilly, of Religions of the World and Festivals of the World, published by Infobase, and, with Martin Palmer, of Atlas of Religion. She is a consultant to WWF, the World Bank, the World Council of Churches, UNESCO, and UNDP. 

Series editor and religious historian Martin Palmer is the founder of International Consultancy on Religion, Education, and Culture (ICOREC), in 1983, and the secretary-general of the Alliance of Religions and Conservation (ARC). He is the author of many books on world religions as well as a translator of ancient Chinese texts.