Zarathustra

religious reformer

Zarathustra, also known as Zoroaster, was an ancient Iranian prophet and religious reformer who lived approximately between 660 and 583 BCE. He is best known for founding Zoroastrianism, a major world religion that introduced the concept of dualism, emphasizing the eternal struggle between good and evil personified by the supreme god Ahura Mazda and his opposing spirit Angra Mainyu. Zarathustra's teachings, which advocated for moral righteousness and rejected blood sacrifices, were transmitted through hymns integrated into the Avesta, the sacred texts of Zoroastrianism. His influence extended beyond Persia, resonating with Greek philosophers like Herodotus and Plato, and even inspiring Friedrich Nietzsche's philosophical work 'Thus Spoke Zarathustra.' His legacy continues to shape religious thought and cultural practices in various traditions.