Zoroastrianism
An Ancient Faith
INTRODUCTION
Agenda BELIEFS
SACRED TEXTS/ HOLY BOOK
FIRE TEMPLES
FESTIVALS AND CEREMONIES
COMMUNITY VALUES
CONTRIBUTIONS TO SOCIETY
FOOD
CONCLUSION
INTRODUCTION
• Zoroastrianism is one of the oldest religions in the world.
• It was founded by a prophet named Zarathushtra, or Zoroaster, around
3,500 years ago.
• The word Parsi means 'one who gives alms' in Sanskrit.
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FOUNDER
• Zarathushtra was the founder of Parsi community.
• When he was born he smiled, and it was predicted
that he was the messenger of God.
• He grew up and preached love, justice and speak
only the truth to the whole world.
• His followers are known as Zoroastrains , also
known as Parsis in India.
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BELIEFS
• Zoroastrians believe in the existence of one supreme god called Ahura
Mazda.
• They believe in the balance between good and evil and that each person has
the power to choose between them.
• Good thoughts, good words, and good deeds are highly encouraged.
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HOLY BOOK
• The holy book of Zoroastrianism is called the Avesta.
• It contains hymns, prayers, and teachings written by
Zarathustra.
• The Avesta is written in an ancient language called Avestan.
• Avesta is divided into 5 primary sections:
– Yasna and the Gathas
– Visperad
– Vendidad
– Yashts
– Khorde Avesta
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FIRE TEMPLES
• Zoroastrians consider fire as a symbol of purity, wisdom, and the
presence of God.
• They have special temples, called fire temples, where a sacred fire is
kept burning all the time.
• Zoroastrians worship in fire temples and offer prayers in front of the
sacred fire.
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FESTIVALS AND CEREMONIES
• Zoroastrian kids enter the faith after they learn their prayers and
undergo a Navjote ceremony, which includes wearing of a
sacred thread called kasti and Sadra.
• Zoroastrians have various festivals throughout the year.
• One of the most important festivals is Nowruz, which celebrates
the arrival of spring and the new year.
• Second being the Parsi new year celebrated in August. Which is
celebrated after the 10 days of prayers conducted for the
departed souls which is known as Muktad Prayers.
• Families come together, exchange gifts, and enjoy special meals.
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COMMUNITY VALUES
• Zoroastrians believe in the importance of equality,
honesty, and helping others.
• They emphasize the value of agriculture, hard
work, and taking care of nature.
• Zoroastrians also strive to live a righteous and
ethical life.
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CONTRIBUTIONS TO SOCIETY
• Zoroastrians have made significant contributions to society.
• They pioneered the concept of charity and believed in helping those in
need.
• Zoroastrians also promoted education and knowledge, leading to
advancements in various fields.
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FOOD
• Food is an integral path of zoroastrian faith.
• Fruits, dry fruits, sweet dessert called Malido is used
during religious prayers and ceremonies.
• On festivals Zoroastrians make sweet desserts called Ravo
( made from suji) and Sev which is made from vermicelli.
• Cuisines like Patra ni Macchi, Palav Dal, Sali chicken are
amongst the few dishes made on festivals.
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CLOTHING
• Parsis wear white clothes as a symbol of purity
and simplicity. According to Zoroastrian beliefs,
white represents the elementof fire, which is
considered to be sacred and purifying.
• Parsi men typically wear a long muslin shirt
called ‘sudra’ with a girdle or ‘kusti’.
• Parsi women traditionally wear sarees with hand
embroidery known as ‘gara’ work.
• Parsi children wear a traditional loose shirt
known as the ‘jabhla’.
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2024
CONCLUSION
• Zoroastrianism is a fascinating ancient faith that
teaches the importance of goodness, balance, and
choosing the right path.
• It is a religion that celebrates nature, community,
and the pursuit of knowledge.
• Zoroastrians have left a lasting legacy through their
contributions and continue to practice their faith
today.
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Thank You
