Theology

A Zoroastrian Educational Institute

Theology

A Sky Full of Stars
McIntyre, Dina G.
In this article the reader is taken on a spiritual journey and exposed to a roam of possibilities through the strength of the treasures buried in the Gathas of Zarathushtra. The empowerment that comes from internalizing the Gathic concepts is discussed.
A Healing Vision
Smith, Timothy
A frank discussion of the tragedy of September 11, 2001 that unfolded in the USAquestions just how far civilization has really come from ages past, while an account of Zarathushtra’s teachings chart a new course to a better world.
Any friend of Zarathushtra is a friend of ours
Abreu, Jose Luis
In this thought-provoking article the Zarathushtrian perspective on what constitutes the basis of friendship and the camaraderie of the righteous is presented.
Asha "God's Will"
Mehr, Professor Farhang
The concept of Asha being so central to Zarathustra's Vision for creation and so fundamental to the empowerment and uplift of the humans that a comprehensive analysis of it is essential. The author has done a great job of analyzing the concept of Asha.
Cherishing the Ecosystem -- Then and Now
Bagli, Ervad Dr. Jehan
This article discusses the Zarathushtrian perspective on the need to protect the environment; it prescribes a harmonious relationship between humans and nature.
Fire "Athra" and Fiery Test
Jahanian, Dr. Daryoush
In this document, the author searches for the significance of Fire referred in the Gathas of Zarathushtra and its symbolism. Fire and Fiery test for individuals aspiring to the attributes of perfection in creation is discussed.
Fravašis and Fravardégân
Bode, Framroze
The concept of Fravašis - emphasized in the later Zoroastrian literature - and its relation to the living and creation and its place in the bigger scheme of life is explained in this paper.
For Love of Wisdom
McIntyre, Dina G.
A brief review of some of Zarathushtra's teaching is given in this very enriching document.
Good and Evil
Bamji, Dr. Soli S.
The author provides an informative perspective on the concept of Good and Evil and their relation to other fundamentals from a religious perspective. Zarathushtra's perspective on the origin of good and evil is discussed.
Heritage of Humanity
Soroushian, Dr. Mehrborzin
Some of the great contributions of Zarathushtra to development of human thought and human civilization are outlined in this article written in connection with the UNESCO declared 3000 anniversary of Zoroastrianism.
How Do We Worship, How Do We Pray
McIntyre, Dina G.
The author describes different types of prayer in the Gathas, including the "asking" prayers and the "giving" prayers, and how they affect our lives and our world, and she closes with a blessing which reflects Zarathushtra's view that it is not enough to ask blessings for ourselves. We have to bless each other and our world.
Learning Religiously
Rustomji, Professor Yezdi
Modern education aims at the liberation of human mind, as opposed to indoctrination. To keep refreshing Zarathushtra's vision, one must keep learning religiously.
Love and Peace in Zarathushtra's Voice
Palsson, Henrick
An insightful perspective on Zarathushtra's vision for humanity is given. The question of what it means to be good in words, deeds and thoughts is explored, as well as the question of what can Zarathushtra offer to the humanity in the 3^rd millennium.
Metaphor in the Gathas, Part 1: The Natural Metaphors
McIntyre, Dina G.
This is Part 1 of a series of articles on Metaphor in the Gathas. Here, the author discusses the way in which Zarathushtra uses pastoral metaphors to convey his thoughts, and his solution for the defeat of evil. A discussion of fire in the later texts is included, and the author concludes by raising some interesting questions.
Metaphor in the Gathas, Part 2: The "Houses" of Paradise and Hell
McIntyre, Dina G.
In this piece, the author discusses Zarathushtra's use of "house" as a metaphor, and touches on his notions of heaven and hell.
Metaphor in the Gathas, Part 3: The Amesha Spenta as Allegories
McIntyre, Dina G.
In this piece, the author analyzes Zarathushtra's treatment of the amesha spenta in some detail, and his enigmatic use of the singular and the plural in addressing Ahura Mazda, and concludes with a discussion on his thoughts regarding the quality and nature of divinity.
Mithraism
Taraporwala, Dr. Iraj
Mithraism originated in Iran, predating Zoroastrianism. Being predominant in Rome prior to Christianity, elements of it can be found in Zoroastrianism and in Christianity. This article investigates its bearing on Zoroastrianism.
New Scope on some Aspects of Zoroasrtrian History and Philosophy
DuBreuil, Professor Paul
The author discusses the shortcomings of the scholars in acknowledging the contribution of Zarathushtra's thoughts to the evolution of human civilization. He outlines his view of the course of action the followers of this religion ought to adapt to enhance the welfare of humanity in keeping with the vision of their prophet.
Nietzsche’s Understanding of Zarathushtra's Philosophy
Pearlstein,Arthur
Analysis of Nietzsche's understanding of Zarathushtra's thought that provides valuable insight into the philosphical basis of Zarathushtra's message is given in this article
Notes on the Amesha Spentas and New Science
Nelson, Robert Scott
The concept of Amesha Spentas is a theme of the Zoroastrian religion. Amesha Spentas are usually translated into English with a single word. The Avestan concepts, taken in context, are often much deeper than a single word can convey. In this article the author shares some of his notes on the fuller meanings of the Amesha Spentas as they have been variously described by Avestan Scholars and then applies them to the concepts of New Science.
Of Means and Ends
McIntyre, Dina G.
In this thought provoking article, the author examines evidence from the text of the oldest religious philosophy and comes up with very deep and significant observation on the purpose for life and the relationship between individuals and the human wholeness.
On the Fire of Aramaiti
Bagli, Ervad Dr. Jehan
In the hustle of the day to day activity, there is often little time for human to pause and think of the rationale of existence. Asho Zarathusht preached the importance of Manah Mind- through his thought provoking Message, some 3700 years ago. Today, in the wake of material bliss, humanity is still struggling to fully comprehend how best to attain the Spenta Aramaiti - Serenity or Right-mindedness - to optimally utilize that precious gift Vohu Manah - of the Wise Lord, and bring forth His kingdom in this material actuality.
One Design
McIntyre, Dina G.
In this piece, the author explores Zarathushtra's teaching that the material and the spiritual form a part of one beautiful design, and discusses their harmonious interaction.
Psychology of the Gathas A Psycho-historical view of teachings of Zarathushtra
Anoshiravani, Dr. Ardeshir
In this brief article, the author attempts to analyze the methodology of Gathas in light of modern theories of learning. Also, some psycho historical assumptions pertaining to the life and times of Asho Zarathushtra is discussed.
Spenta Mainyu in the Gâthâs
Dhalla, Dastur Maneckji
This brief article outlines the Gathic perspective on Spenta Mainyu and its relation to Ahura Mazda. The distinction must be made since later Zarathushti literature mistakenly made the two identical.
Temptation of Zarathushtra
Dhalla, Dastur Dr. Maneckji N.
Zarathushtra in his mission to guide humanity towards enlightenment and away from superstitious and servitude is opposed by forces of oppression who first tempted him with martial riches and failing to win him over, used the threat of harm. In staying his course he resorts to righteousness as his weapon of choice.
The Cosmos and Zarathushtra
Jafarey, Dr. Ali Akbar
This concise article points out the uniqueness of Zarathushtrian view of the cosmos and how it compares with the view held by Abrahamic faiths.

The Future as a Zarathushtrian Invention
Pearlstein,Arthur
The fundamental concept in which Zarathushtra changed the humanity with was "future" as an idea. By inventing this concept man was removed from a static world view and responsible for improvement of his/her condition as a function of time.
The Light of the Sacred Fire
Shapero, Hannah M.G.
For a western educated reader wishing to have a general understanding of the Zarathushti religious belief and philosophy, Ms. Shapero's article is certainly a wonderful "knowledge gate".
The Love of Truth in Ancient Iran
Insler, Professor Stanley
Author discusses the importance of truth in relation to man and God and its central position. Historical perspectives for this concept is given based on documented.
The Notion of Love in the Gathas
McIntyre, Dina G.
In this thought stimulating article the concept of love consistent with the message of the Gathas and based on the fundamentals of the philosophy of Zarathushtra is examined. The author clearly shows the connection between the notion of love as understood by the humans and the other Gathas concepts.
The Origin of Israel’s Faith – and its Debt to Zoroaster
MacAllister, P.E.
An insightful discussion of the evolution on the Judeo-Christian religious thoughts and its borrowings from Zarathushtra's thought is presented in this article.

The Philosophical Concept of "Consciousness" in Zarathushtra’s Teachings
Kerr,Sam
The author tries to transmit, step by step, the prophet's philosophical notions in the matters of the Human Mind and its Conscious senses. Zarathushtra's amazing vision of a slow but Progressive Evolution through an endless change in the thought processes, inducing a better and better way of life (focusing inward within each self, i e Self-Consciousness and outward on society, i.e. Communal Consciousness) is actuated under the constant supervision of a Perfectly Good Influence. This most ancient thought has, in modern times, been acclaimed by humanists and philosophers alike, as a new paradigm - a concept of Universal Consciousness, a form of shared humanity, if you will, in the push towards Globalization and Universality.
The Proposal of Zarathushtra- Beyond Religion and Philosophy
Abreu, Jose Luis
This thought provoking article explores the scope of Zarathushtra's message for humanity beyond simple theological and philosophical bounds and into other domains that influences human behavior.
The Religion of Action
Taraporwala, Dr. Iraj
Highlighting the relation of humanity with creation according to Zarathushtra's Vision, Dr. Taraporewala captures the demand on humans in terms of the conduct of a life of filled with action, and the consequence of their deeds.

The Web of Immanence
McIntyre, Dina G.
In this article the author gives a thought provoking overview of the approaches that Zarathushtra's thought offers for dealing with issues that can come up in a person's life, and concludes by considering the implications of the immanence of the divine in all things.
The Vision of Zarathushtra
Irani, Professor Kaikhosrov Dinshah
In this article, the author explores the purpose of life and existence from the perspective of the bigger picture based on the philosophical formulation of the World's oldest standing religion.
The Zarathushtrian Foundations of Human Civilization
Smith,Timothy
This article presents a brief review of the Zarathushtrian concepts that have shaped human thoughts and influenced our religions and cultures. The subtlety of concepts of freedom of choice and moral responsibility for promoting the rightful order is discussed.
Twin Mainyus - The Gathic Doctrine
Bagli, Ervad Dr. Jehan
The ethical duality of Good and Evil confronts all the religious traditions. Prophet Zarathushtra was historically the first spiritual leader to deal with this aspect in a uniquely reflective manner. This is elaborated in his words in Yasna 30 of the Ahunavaiti Gatha. These sections of the Yasna will be discussed and their principles interpreted in relation to the processes of thought and choice by the Humanity in this Getig world. The Gathic concept of the Twin Mainyus has undergone a significant distortion in the Syncretic Zarathushtrian Faith that evolved with time. An attempt will be made to outline the historical changes that led to the Syncretic viewpoint.
Universal Elements Forming the Fundamentals of the Religion of Zarathushtra
Homji, Dasturji Nowrooz D. Minocher
The universality of the Religion tradition introduced by Zarathushtra and the unique and humanistic aspects of the same are discussed in this easy to comprehend speech delivered in 1984.
Vohu Manah, The Precious Gift of Mazda
Bagli, Ervard Dr. Jehan
Vohu Mano, the good mind capable of comprehending Asha is a concept very central to the Zarathushtrian theology. The relationship between the mind, reasoning ability, comprehension, and consciousness, was not well understood by science until millennia later than the time Zarathushtra. In this article, the in-depth appreciation of these concepts from Zarathushtrian perspective is discussed.
What is the Zarathushtrian Commitment?
Irani, Professor Kaikhosrov Dinshah
An insightful discussion of what constitutes the Zarathushtrian Commitment is the subject of this thought provoking article. Is it that Individual and social attitudes and resolutions, taken rationally, constitute the 'Zarathushtrian Commitment'?
What Should Zarathushtrian Education Be?
Irani, Emeritus Professor Kaikhosrov Dinshah
Regardless of the context of the educational situation, the religious teaching of Prophet Zarathushtra must be the central focus. The religious vision we find in the Gathas must be presented with a minimum of interpretative gloss and no novel doctrinal creations such as those generated by deviant contemporary groups.
Women in the Avesta Era
Jahanian, Dr. Daryoush
Gathas of Zarathushtra makes no distinction between man and woman; their position in life and society is not based on their gender. Each person chooses his or her own path with free will irrespective of gender. Zarathushtrian ancient texts are the basis for the discussion in this educational paper.
Zarathushtra Venerating God and the Creation
Jafarey, Dr. Ali Akbar
Venerating God and Venerating two concepts very much aligned according to Zarathushtra's world-view is elaborated in this brief paper.
Zarathushtra: Building the Civil Society
Smith,Timothy R
An informative review of the impact of Zarathushtra's philosophy on human thought and its influence on other religious thoughts. Some of the concepts central to Zarathushtra's thought are covered.
Zarathushtra’s Paradise, In this World and the Next
McIntyre, Dina G.
In this thought provoking article, the author discusses the concept of paradise based on the evidence found in the Gathas of Zarathushtra. The human, God relationship and the ideal of universal brotherhood is also discussed.
Zarathushtra’s Vision
Insler, Professor Stanley
Few men have had such a profound impact on human thinking as Zarathushtra did. Author professor Insler in this article discusses what was Zarathushtra's vision in his Gathas.
Zarathushtra’s Vision: The Individual Making The Difference
Bagli, Ervard Dr. Jehan
The philosophy of Zarathushtra in regards to the uplift and salvation of humanity stresses the important role the individuals must assume in ushering in "Khashtra Vairyu", the holy dominion. This emphasize is in sharp contrast to to the approach based on delegating that essential role to an omnipotent and supernatural God, while the humans are reduced to taking passive and submissive roles based on the conventional wisdom of Abrahamic faiths. In this article the productive and crucial role that individuals are expected to play in moving humanity towards perfection is discussed.
Zarathushtra's vital Message
Antia,Mazda K.
In this insightful article, the interconnectedness of humans' actions from a Zarathushtrian perspective is discussed. Doing what is good or "best" in each situation is often different than doing what is advantageous or convenient to an individual. A butterfly flaps its wings in one part of the world and sets into motion events causing a hurricane far away: Zarathushtra's message can be the wing moving people's minds - changing the life they lead from focusing on what's best for one alone, towards a life improving the world for all people and beings.
Zarathushtrian Commitment
Bagli, Ervad Dr. Jehan
Since the advent of Asho Spitama Zarathushtra the way of life based on the teachings proclaimed by that Great Manthran have demonstrated an unbroken chain of continuity through millennia.
Zarathushtrian Theodicy
Bailey, Albert
Theodicy is the branch of theology dedicated to understanding the problem of evil, that is, why evil exists in a world governed by a good, wise, and powerful god. Over the centuries, Persian thought has addressed this question more thoroughly than any other religious tradition.
Zarathushtrianism: An Ancient Faith for Modern Man
Bode, Dasturji Framroze Ardeshir
An enriching article touching upon some of the main principals of Zarathushtra's Philosophy and its outward manifestation relative to human's relation with Ahura Mazda and the rest of creation.
Zoroastrianism and Humanity, best days yet to come?
Bakhradnia, Shahin
This article discusses the role of individuals in leading an effective life based on social consciousness. The discussion of how Zoroastrian ideas can move humanity forward is discussed.
Zoroastrianism and Science
Cama, Dr. Lovji D.
The law governing the evolution of the World and its structure that has fascinated scientists for ages, and what Zarathushtra has called Asha seem analogous. In this insightful article, Dr. Lovji Cama discusses the consistency between Zarathushtra's vision and the scientific-centric view of the World.
Zoroastrianism in the 21st Century
Bard, Alexander
The author critically examines the existing religions from a perspective of their ability to appeal to a highly educated and discerning global audience likely to become more of the norm in the twenty first century. The rigorous set of criteria applied in assessing the applicability of the various traditions, provides profound insight into the basis of such religions.
Zoroastrianism -- A vanishing Faith?
Vajifdar,Farrokh
In today's world every ancient religion, as well as Zoroastrianism, faces this question. Zoroastrianism as a faith has never vanished; its great ideas lived on with continued influencing major philosophical and social developments in modern world.
Zoroastrianism - An Ancient Religion with a Pure Philosophy and Rich Traditions
Anoshiravani, Dr. Ardeshir
Historical background of the Zoroastrian religion founded by prophet Zarathushtra, and the core beliefs of the religion and its philosophical and traditional basis are all discussed.
Zoroastrianism, Tajiks, and UNESCO
Mehr, Emeritus Professor Dr. Farhang
An insightful and brief description of the unique and distinguishing features of Zarathushtra's thought are presented in this article.