Define the Following Terms: Zoroastrianism

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The Answer is Zoroastrianism is one of the world's oldest continuously practiced religions. It is a monotheistic faith centered on the teachings of the prophet Zoroaster (also known as Zarathustra in Avestan), who is believed to have lived in the early 2nd millennium BCE in the region that is now Iran. Zoroastrianism was the state religion of the pre-Islamic Iranian empires from the Achaemenid dynasty to the Sassanid dynasty.

The religion's scriptures are collected in the Avesta, which includes the Gathas, hymns that are attributed to Zoroaster himself. The central tenet of Zoroastrianism is the cosmic struggle between Ahura Mazda (also known as Ormazd), the god of light, truth, and goodness, and Angra Mainyu (or Ahriman), the spirit of darkness, deceit, and evil. Followers of Zoroastrianism are expected to actively participate in the fight against evil through good thoughts, good words, and good deeds.

Zoroastrianism teaches the concept of free will, emphasizing that individuals are responsible for their choices. The religion also has a dualistic cosmology of good and evil and an eschatology predicting the ultimate conquest of evil by good. It includes the concepts of heaven and hell, as well as a final judgment that will determine the fate of each soul.

The religion's influence can be seen in other religious systems, including Judaism, Christianity, and Islam, with concepts such as the judgment after death, the messianic figure, and the dualistic nature of good and evil.

Despite its ancient origins, Zoroastrianism has a relatively small number of adherents today, primarily found in India (where they are known as Parsis) and Iran. The religion has faced historical declines due to the spread of Islam in Iran and the migration of Zoroastrians to India to avoid religious persecution. Nonetheless, Zoroastrian communities continue to practice their faith and preserve their cultural heritage.

Define the Following Terms: Zoroastrianism

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Define the Following Terms: Zoroastrianism

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Correct Answer:
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