Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
Zoroastrianism
Zoroastrianism, founded by Zoroaster (Zarathustra), had its inception in Persia in the 6th
century BC and is based on the concept of dualism, whereby good and evil are locked in a
continuous battle. Zoroastrianism isn't quite monotheistic: good and evil entities coexist,
although believers are urged to honour only the good. Both body and soul are united in this
struggle of good versus evil. Although humanity is mortal it has components that are time-
less, such as the soul. On the day of judgment the errant soul is not called to account for
every misdemeanour - but a pleasant afterlife does depend on one's deeds, words and
thoughts during earthly existence.
Zoroastrianism was eclipsed in Persia by the rise of Islam in the 7th century and its fol-
lowers, many of whom openly resisted this, suffered persecution. Over the following cen-
turies, some immigrated to India, where they became known as Parsis. Historically, Parsis
settled in Gujarat and became farmers; however, during British rule they moved into com-
merce, forming a prosperous community in Mumbai.
In recent decades the Parsi population has been spiralling downward; there are now be-
lieved to be only between 40,000 and 45,000 Parsis left in India, with most residing in
Mumbai.
The Zoroastrian funerary ritual involves the 'Towers of Silence' where the corpse is laid out and exposed
to vultures that pick the bones clean.
