Zoroastrianism was founded by the prophet Zoroaster around 3,500 years ago in ancient Persia. This religion has profoundly influenced the spiritual landscape of the world, and today, we’ll be uncovering its rich history, key figures, and sacred texts.
In this episode, we’ll take a detailed look at the rise of Zoroastrianism. We’ll explore how it flourished under the mighty Persian empires, from the Achaemenid to the Parthian and Sasanian dynasties. These were times when Zoroastrianism was not just a religion but the very foundation of the state and culture.
We’ll also delve into the dualistic nature of Zoroastrianism, where Ahura Mazda, the Wise Lord, represents all that is good, standing in stark contrast to Angra Mainyu, the Destructive Spirit of chaos and evil. This cosmic struggle between good and evil is a cornerstone of Zoroastrian belief and has inspired countless stories and teachings.
Zoroastrianism has left an indelible mark on other major religions, including Gnosticism, Judaism, and Christianity. We’ll examine these intriguing links, such as the concepts of the messiah, heaven and hell, and the final judgment, which all might sound familiar to many of you.
So, whether you’re a history buff, a religious studies enthusiast, or just curious about the world’s spiritual heritage, stay tuned. We’re about to uncover the untold stories and fascinating aspects of Zoroastrianism that they didn’t teach you in school. Let’s get started!
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