Zoroastrianism

Question 1

Approaches to Evil:

Answer 1

Evil is understood as a destructive force (represented by Angra Mainyu) in opposition to the good.

Angra Mainyu is the embodiment of evil in Zoroastrian belief.

Question 2

Scripture:

Answer 2

The Avesta (including the Gathas) is the primary collection of liturgical texts.

The Gathas are hymns attributed to Zoroaster himself.

Question 3

God and Cosmic Dualism:

Answer 3

Often characterized by the struggle between good (Ahura Mazda) and evil (Angra Mainyu), though some interpretations lean toward a more monotheistic view with internal conflict.

Some interpretations suggest a more monotheistic view with internal conflict.

Question 4

Human Nature and Free Will:

Answer 4

Humans have the free will to choose between good and evil; they are responsible for their ethical decisions.

Humans are responsible for their ethical decisions.

Question 5

What are the Three Jewels of Zoroastrianism?

Answer 5

Good Thoughts, Good Words, Good Deeds

These principles guide moral behavior in Zoroastrianism.

Question 6

What does fire symbolize in Zoroastrian worship?

Answer 6

Purity and the divine

Fire plays a central role in rituals and temple worship.

Question 7

What traditional practice is favored for the burial of the dead in Zoroastrianism?

Answer 7

Exposing the dead (e.g., in Towers of Silence) to avoid contaminating the sacred elements of earth and fire.

This practice avoids contaminating the sacred elements of earth and fire.

Question 8

What is the Chinvat Bridge?

Answer 8

The bridge of judgment that souls must cross after death. one’s deeds determine passage to heaven or hell.

One’s deeds determine passage to heaven or hell.

Question 9

What determines whether souls are rewarded with heaven or punished with hell after the final judgment?

Answer 9

One’s earthly conduct

This emphasizes the importance of ethical behavior in life.