زرتشت — دین باستانی ایرانی که جهان را شکل داد
Zoroastrianism, founded by the prophet Zarathustra (Zoroaster) in ancient Iran around 1500–1000 BC, is one of the world's oldest continuously practiced monotheistic religions. Its central teaching — the cosmic battle between Ahura Mazda (Lord of Wisdom/Good) and Angra Mainyu (Spirit of Destruction/Evil) — introduced concepts that profoundly influenced all later Abrahamic religions.
Key Zoroastrian concepts that shaped world religion: monotheism (one supreme God), heaven and hell, angels and demons, a savior figure (Saoshyant), resurrection of the dead, final judgment, and the ultimate triumph of good over evil. Scholars widely agree these concepts entered Judaism during the Persian period and later influenced Christianity and Islam.
The sacred fire temple (Atashkadeh) is central to Zoroastrian worship, representing Ahura Mazda's divine light and truth. Despite centuries of persecution after the Arab conquest, Zoroastrian communities survive in Iran (Yazd, Kerman) and India (Parsis). The Faravahar symbol and the teaching of Good Thoughts, Good Words, Good Deeds remain central to Iranian identity.
Humata, Hukhta, Hvarshta — Good Thoughts, Good Words, Good Deeds. This ethical triad is the foundation of Zoroastrian life and is widely considered the origin of monotheistic moral philosophy.
Zoroastrianism introduced concepts of monotheism, heaven/hell, angels/demons, resurrection, final judgment, and a coming savior — all of which were later adopted by Judaism, Christianity, and Islam during and after the Persian Empire period.