Zoroastrianism - Research Paper Example

Zoroastrianism Zoroastrianism is a primeval, pre-Islamic religion and philosophy that was based in Ancient Persia. It was founded approximately in the sixth century BC by prophet Zarathustra, whom the religion was named after. Zoroastrianism was the official religion of the Persian Empire until the Muslim invasion took place in 637 AD. Followers of Zoroastrianism believe in one God, Ahura Mazda. The purpose of this God is to make the world a better place to live; this could be accomplished by people choosing Ahura Mazda, who represented good, over Aura Minyu, who represented evil (Boyce 684).

The primary beliefs of Zoroastrianism are based on good and evil, more specifically Good Thoughts, Good Deeds, and Good Words, all of which would lead one to peace. Zoroastrianism shares similarities with the Buddhist spiritual path. The greatest similarity is how much stock is put into good thoughts, deeds, and words, and how each of these things can lead to peace. The main Buddhist belief is that the aforementioned qualities will aid a person in living a life of happiness, peace, and contentment.

Zoroastrianism and Buddhism also have their differences, with the most noticeable one being that while Zoroastrianism worships a god, Buddhism does not have a deity. Buddha, the prophet of Buddhism, a simply a teacher and does not take on the qualities of a god. Zoroastrianism also believes in heaven and hell, while Buddhism focuses more on enlightenment and reincarnation. Hinduism is another religion that Zoroastrianism has similarities and differences. Both religions share the view of good words and thoughts equating to a good, wholesome life.

They are both also considered to be philosophical paths, as well as religions. Hinduism has one primary god, just as Zoroastrianism, but it also has additional deities. There is no founding figure or prophet in Hinduism, but the religion was created out of the sagas of ancient India. While Zoroastrianism acknowledges good and evil, especially in relation to a having a good life, Hinduism looks to karma to determine where a person stands in regard to good and evil. Works Cited Boyce, Mary. Zoroastrians: Their Religious Beliefs and Practices.

London: Routledge, 2007. Print.