Authors

Rafik Novruzov¹;  ¹ Baku Slavic University, Azerbaidjan

Discussion

Zoroastrianism was once the dominant religion before the arrival of Islam, in Azerbaijan, and many of its traditions left a lasting mark on the region's cultural and spiritual heritage. Focusing on the early principles revealed by the prophet Zarathushtra (Zoroaster in Greek), it highlights the concept of Ahura Mazda, the supreme deity who created a hierarchical system of spiritual forces known as Amesha Spenta—Immortal Saints that preside over natural elements and virtues such as Good Thought, Truth, Piety, Power, Integrity, and Immortality.

The study delves into the Avesta, Zoroastrianism’s sacred text, which emphasizes life as the ultimate good, imbuing all aspects of creation with vital energy. Later associated with fire, this energy underpins the Zoroastrians’ reverence for fire as a symbolic and spiritual element. Over time, the ethical-religious teachings of Zoroastrianism transformed into a dualistic philosophy, framing existence as an eternal struggle between Good and Evil. This dualism challenges the original monotheistic essence of Zoroastrianism, where Ahura Mazda embodies both the unity and truth of being. This paper explores these transformations and their implications, focusing on the central concept of Asha—meaning Truth or Order—as a unifying principle that reflects the enduring relevance of Zoroastrian teachings in understanding ancient and modern spiritual philosophies, particularly in Azerbaijan’s cultural context.

Keywords: Zoroastrianism, Ahura Mazda, Avesta, Amesha Spenta, dualism, Asha, fire worship, monotheism, Azerbaijan, ancient traditions.