Modern Mithraism Lib : Traditional Zoroastrianism

Traditional Zoroastrianism

4021.02

NINE PRINCIPLES OF ZOROASTRIANISM (Mobed Council Tehran) :
1. Belief in Ahura Mazda, the one and unique god (the greatest wise creator)
2. Belief in prophecy of Zoroaster
3. Belief in the human soul and the Spiritual World (the other world after death)
4. Belief in Asha (the real truth and law that the world is based on)
5. Belief in equality of all human beings (no matter what religion they have or not)
6. Belief in 7 Amesha Spentas (7 bases of Zoroastrian deep ‌Knowledge and world-view)
7. Belief in Generosity and Donation to those who need
8. Belief in Holiness of 4 Environmental elements (Water, air/wind, Soil, Fire)
9. Belief in Frashokereti (revival-renovation of the world)

PRACTICES OF ZOROASTRIANISM
The religion states that active and ethical participation in life through good deeds formed from good thoughts and good words is necessary to ensure happiness and to keep chaos at bay.

In Zoroastrian tradition, life is a temporary state in which a mortal is expected to actively participate in the continuing battle between Asha and Druj (Rightness and Deception/Wickedness). Prior to being born, the urvan (soul) of an individual is still united with its fravashi (personal/higher spirit), which has existed since Ahura Mazda created the universe. The fravashi before the urvan's split act as aids in the maintenance of creation with Ahura Mazda. During life, the fravashi act as aspirational ideals and spiritual protectors. The fravashi of bloodline, cultural, and spiritual ancestors and heroes are venerated and can be called upon for aid.

Water and fire are agents of ritual purity and the basis of purification ceremonies. Zoroastrian scripture considers fire to have its origin in the waters. Both water and fire are considered life-sustaining, and both water and fire are represented within the precinct of a fire temple where rituals involve a "strengthening of the waters" through purification. The symbolism of this ab-zohr ceremony is a reflection of Zoroastrian cosmogony, wherein the primeval waters fear pollution by humankind. An offering of animal and plant life mixed with strengthening and healing properties of haoma (soma) can restore it. According to the Bundahishn, Ahura Mazda promised the waters to "create one (i.e. Zoroaster) who will pour haoma into you to cleanse you again."