Zoroastrianism is one of the world's oldest religions, believed to have originated in ancient Persia in the 6th century BCE. It has been a part of the cultural landscape of many countries and has a long, rich history of celebration and tradition. The festival used to be celebrated mainly in cities such as Yazd and Kerman with a population of Zoroastrians, the followers of the pre-Islamic faith. Over the centuries, Zoroastrianism has been adapted and embraced by other religions and countries, including India, where it is still practiced today.
The 'Father of Arizona', John Campbell Greenway, was a notable proponent of Zoroastrianism. He was a devout believer who tried to build a Zoroastrian fire temple on the hill where he's now buried. Magi were priests of Zoroastrianism, clerics who studied the stars as part of their devotional practice, which makes their pursuit of a star-filled sky a metaphor for the Zoroastrian faith.
The festival of Sadeh is a Zoroastrian celebration that marks the mid-point of winter. The persona is related to Zoroastrian times, before the advent of Islam. The multi-day festival typically begins before dawn in late January and ends at sunset. It is a time to reflect on the past and look to the future, and to honor the sun, fire, and the elements.
Zoroastrianism is a religion of diversity and pluralism. Though the Zoroastrian centre itself, built in 1936 as a cinema, is a place of worship, the religion itself is open to all beliefs and practices, whether it be Pagan, Zoroastrianism or Christianity. This is exemplified by the presence of a Zoroastrian chaplain at the University of Arizona, where students of all backgrounds and beliefs can feel comfortable and supported.
Daryush D. Mehta, a representative of the Zoroastrian Association, spoke to this plurality in relation to the various chaplaincies at the university. He noted that the Zoroastrian chaplaincy is a place where students can come and learn about the faith, and can find comfort and support in their exploration of their spiritual beliefs.
The Zoroastrian community is also involved in other community-based initiatives. One such example is the work of Zarine Mistry, who is a Trustee of the Zoroastrian Trust Funds of India. She is the also founder Trustee of ZTFI (Zoroastrian Trust Funds of India), a Community based NGO established in 2009, which has constantly strived to serve and empower the Zoroastrian community in India.
The Parsi community, who practices the Zoroastrian faith, upholds a rather distinctive funeral tradition. When the body dies, it is returned to the earth by way of a "Tower of Silence". This ritual is deeply rooted in Zoroastrianism and is said to be a way for the deceased to be closer to nature and the elements.
Zoroastrianism has also influenced the culture and customs of other societies. Unlike Parsi Zoroastrians, who had arrived in Gujarat more than 1,000 years ago, the Iranian Zoroastrians moved to India in the 19th century and helped organise and develop Zoroastrian communities in Iran, India and other parts of the world.
The Zoroastrian Association of New York is a non-profit organisation that works to promote, preserve and propagate the faith. They have a variety of activities, from lectures and seminars to workshops and gatherings, that are open to the public and offer an opportunity to learn more about the faith.
The Zoroastrian community has a rich cultural and religious heritage, with a tradition of service, respect and hospitality. The faith is practiced around the world, with adherents in many countries. Events like the Sadeh festival provide an opportunity to celebrate the religion, and to reconnect with the ancient roots of Zoroastrianism.
The Zoroastrian community also has a strong philanthropic bent. They are actively involved in charity work, providing aid and support to those in need. There are a number of organisations and initiatives that are dedicated to providing assistance and support to the Zoroastrian community, such as the Zoroastrian Charity Fund, which provides financial aid to those in need.
Zoroastrianism is a faith that is open to all, and it is important to acknowledge the contributions that the community has made to the world. There are a number of events and initiatives that are dedicated to celebrating the religion, and these provide an opportunity for people of all backgrounds to come together and learn about the history and culture of the faith.
The Zoroastrian community is also highly involved in the arts. There are a number of artists, writers and musicians who are inspired by the faith and who use their art to express their beliefs and values. This art is an important part of the culture of the faith and allows people to express themselves in ways that traditional religious practices may not.
The Zoroastrian community is an important part of the global religious landscape. Its long history and unique perspective on life are a source of inspiration and celebration for many. Celebrating Zoroastrianism, with its ancient roots and modern contributions, is a way to honour the faith and to remember all that it has to offer.
