Origins / Beliefs

Zoroastrianism is one of the world’s oldest monotheistic religions. It was founded by the Prophet Zoroaster (or Zarathustra) in ancient Iran approximately 3500 years ago.

Zoroastrians believe there is one God called Ahura Mazda (Wise Lord) and He created the world, that the elements are pure and that fire represents God’s light or wisdom. Ahura Mazda revealed the truth through the Prophet, Zoroaster.

Zoroastrians traditionally pray several times a day, and worship communally in a Fire Temple or Agiary.

The Zoroastrian book of Holy Scriptures is called The Avesta, and this can be roughly split into two main sections. The oldest and core part of the scriptures contains the Gathas, seventeen hymns thought to be composed by Zoroaster himself. The Younger Avesta is a commentary to the older Avesta, written in later years. It also contains myths, stories and details of ritual observances.