One only surpasses the other through their righteousness. Men and women, rich and poor, and young and old are all seen as equal. Through man's positive choices, evil will be eradicated and God's Paradise on Earth will be established. Unlike some religions where man is God's child or servant, in Zoroastrianism man is considered more as God's helper. In the early polytheistic Persian religion, Ahura Mazda was the king of the gods and creator of the world, and Angra Mainyu/Ahriman, lord of the legions of demons, his opponent. The Parsi community in India is particularly known for its industrious contributions to Indian society. They tend to give generously to charities and are often behind educational and social initiatives. Zoroastrians work towards improving the local community and society in general.
Zoroaster himself was a family man and most worship happens in the family home. There is no tradition of monasticism or celibacy. I was inspired by the Persian art of illumination which uses watercolor painting and has significant spiritual value for representing religious scriptures, past. Zoroastrianism is a home and community oriented religion. They tie the kusti around the sudreh three times to remind themselves of 'Good Words, Good Thoughts, and Good Deeds'.įrom then on, Zoroastrians traditionally perform this ritual with prayers several times a day. Zoroastrians try to live their daily lives by this creed.Īt the age of seven, Zoroastrians are given a sudreh (shirt) and kusti (cord) as part of an initiation ceremony.
