Topical Encyclopedia The Zend-Avesta is the sacred scripture of Zoroastrianism, one of the world's oldest monotheistic religions, traditionally attributed to the prophet Zoroaster (or Zarathustra). This collection of texts is central to the religious practices and beliefs of Zoroastrians, who primarily reside in Iran and India. The Zend-Avesta is composed of several parts, including the Yasna, the Visperad, the Vendidad, and the Khordeh Avesta, each serving distinct liturgical and doctrinal purposes.Historical Context Zoroastrianism emerged in ancient Persia, and its influence extended across the region, impacting various cultures and religions, including Judaism and early Christianity. The religion's emphasis on a single god, Ahura Mazda, and the dualistic struggle between good and evil, has drawn comparisons to biblical themes. The Zend-Avesta, written in the Avestan language, was compiled over several centuries, with its oldest portions, the Gathas, believed to be the direct compositions of Zoroaster himself. Theological Themes The Zend-Avesta presents a dualistic worldview, where Ahura Mazda represents the supreme god of light and truth, opposed by Angra Mainyu (Ahriman), the spirit of darkness and deceit. This cosmic struggle between good and evil is reminiscent of biblical themes, such as the battle between God and Satan. In the Bible, the apostle Paul writes, "For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this world's darkness, and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms" (Ephesians 6:12). Moral and Ethical Teachings The Zend-Avesta emphasizes moral purity, truthfulness, and the importance of good deeds, which align with biblical teachings on righteousness and ethical living. The Bible similarly instructs believers to "be holy in all your conduct" (1 Peter 1:15) and to "love your neighbor as yourself" (Matthew 22:39). Zoroastrianism's focus on the individual's responsibility to choose between good and evil parallels the biblical call to live according to God's commandments. Eschatology Zoroastrian eschatology, as outlined in the Zend-Avesta, includes beliefs in a final judgment, resurrection, and the ultimate triumph of good over evil. These concepts bear resemblance to Christian eschatological views. The Bible speaks of a future resurrection and judgment, as seen in Revelation 20:12 : "And I saw the dead, great and small, standing before the throne, and books were opened. Another book was opened, which is the book of life. The dead were judged according to their deeds, as recorded in the books." Influence on Judaism and Christianity The interaction between Zoroastrianism and the Jewish people during the Babylonian Exile and the subsequent Persian period may have facilitated the exchange of religious ideas. Some scholars suggest that Zoroastrian concepts of angels, demons, and the afterlife influenced Jewish thought, which later permeated into early Christian theology. The Bible acknowledges the presence of angels and spiritual warfare, as seen in Hebrews 1:14 : "Are not the angels ministering spirits sent to serve those who will inherit salvation?" Conclusion While the Zend-Avesta is not part of the biblical canon, its themes and teachings provide a fascinating context for understanding the religious and cultural milieu of the ancient Near East. The parallels and contrasts between Zoroastrianism and biblical teachings offer valuable insights into the development of religious thought and the shared human quest for understanding the divine. Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary (n.) The sacred writings of the ancient Persian religion, attributed to Zoroaster, but chiefly of a later date.International Standard Bible Encyclopedia ZEND-AVESTAzend-a-ves'-ta. Library Relation of Manich??ism to Zoroastrianism. Life in Persia. The Completeness of the Bible Demonstrates Its Divine Perfection Cyrus, the Servant Of-The Lord {4} The Servant of the Lord. The Protevangelium. A Look into the Hebrew Bible. To the Editors of El Espanol Embassy from John in Prison to Jesus --Death of John --Relations ... On the Interpretation of Scripture Thesaurus ZendavestaZendavesta. Zenas, Zendavesta. Zend-avesta . Int. ... zend-a-ves'-ta. See PERSIAN RELIGION; ZOROASTRIANISM. Zenas, Zendavesta. Zend-avesta . Reference Bible /z/zendavesta.htm - 6k Zend-avesta Zenas (1 Occurrence) Zephaniah (11 Occurrences) Interpretation (45 Occurrences) Epistle (13 Occurrences) Resources What is Zoroastrianism? | GotQuestions.orgAre the ideas of Jesus and Christianity borrowed from Mithra and Zoroastrianism? | GotQuestions.org Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
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