ZOROASTRIANS Meaning and
Definition
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Zoroastrians, also known as Zarathustrians, are the followers of Zoroastrianism, one of the world's oldest known monotheistic religions. With origins in ancient Persia (modern-day Iran), Zoroastrianism was founded by the prophet Zoroaster (also known as Zarathustra) around the 6th century BCE.
Zoroastrians believe in the teachings of Zoroaster, who preached principles of moral and ethical conduct, emphasizing the concept of free will and the battle between good and evil. They consider Ahura Mazda, the Wise Lord, as the supreme deity and the force responsible for the creation and order of the universe. They have reverence for nature and the elements, particularly fire, which symbolizes purity and divine light in Zoroastrianism.
The Zoroastrian community has historically been tight-knit, emphasizing principles such as truthfulness, justice, charity, and community welfare. They consider the right actions in life to be crucial for the eventual salvation of the soul. Rituals and ceremonies play an integral role in their religious practice, with fire temples acting as significant places of worship.
Throughout history, the Zoroastrian community faced persecution and forced conversions, leading to their decline in numbers. However, despite their relatively small population today, Zoroastrians have maintained their distinct identity and continue to practice their faith in various parts of the world, especially in India and Iran. They have made significant contributions in fields such as commerce, arts, and education, preserving their rich cultural heritage and ancient traditions.
Common Misspellings for ZOROASTRIANS
Etymology of ZOROASTRIANS
The word "Zoroastrians" refers to the followers of Zoroastrianism, a monotheistic religion founded by the prophet Zoroaster (also known as Zarathustra) in ancient Persia.
The etymology of the word "Zoroastrians" is derived from the name of the religion's founder, Zoroaster. In ancient Greek, his name was rendered as Zōroastrēs (Ζωροάστρης), which later evolved into Zoroastres in Latin. From the Latin version, the term "Zoroastrians" was eventually formed, referring to the people who follow Zoroastrianism. This term is widely used today to describe the followers of this faith.
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