Zoroaster, who’s also well-known as Zarathushtra, was an important religious person in ancient Persia and his teachings led to the development and integration of this area. He was born on the Iranian plateau, but there are many myths surrounding his life and philosophy, making it difficult to separate historical from religious aspects of this man. Nevertheless, through the Avesta that embodies his teachings, Zarathushtra has impacted Western religions, especially Judaism, Christianity, and Islam.
Early Life and Education
Nothing much has been said about his childhood days for Zarathustra; some reports say he was raised in a family of priests while others claim he belonged to the warrior class though no concrete evidence supports these claims. Zarathushtra must have learned some things about it before adopting any new religion; however, every child born at that time was expected to be indoctrinated into “the right ways” of life which involved performing specific rituals.
The Revelation and the Teachings
Zarathushtra life changed course when he had a personal encounter with Ahura Mazda, the supreme deity of Zoroastrianism who gave him a fresh message for mankind according to the Avesta. It therefore represents the starting point when he took on prophecy.
At the heart of Zarathushtra’s teaching lies the doctrine of dualism involving two opposing forces viz.-Ahura Mazda as the good and wise godhead as well as Angra Mainyu the evil principle. Zarathushtra taught that the choice between these two forces must be made by men only in favor of Ahura Mazda. He insisted that there was freedom for everyone to decide whether they would do good or bad things and that such actions would determine where they would go after death.
Among the most important contributions made by Zarathushtra is the formulation of a moral code grounded on truthfulness, righteousness and compassion. He urged his followers to lead lives characterized by virtue while striving for unity with nature; he also highlighted the symbolic role of fire as a representation for sanctity and divine light.
The Spread of Zoroastrianism
Gradually, the teachings of Zarathushtra became acceptable to the people of Persia. Consequently, over time Zoroastrianism came to be the prevailing religion in the Achaemenid Empire which was among the most powerful empires in ancient world. The Achaemenid kings even facilitated the establishment of fire temples in their entire empire.
Zoroastrianism’s Influence on Western Religions
Indeed the impact that Zoroastrianism had on Western religions remains ineradicable. Indeed many scholars believe that heaven and hell as well as the concept of final judgment were first introduced by Zoroastrianism. Additionally, ideas such as truth/righteousness/compassion which are characteristic for Judaism or Christianity are also often traced back to the same source – Zoroaster.
Conclusion
He was a prophet whose inspiration changed the world. His life remains surrounded with mystery but his legacy speaks volumes about him. Zarathushtra’s contributions to the Western religions and morality in general cannot be quantified because he is considered as a divine messenger by many.
