Zoroastrian life in North Alabama
Zoroastrianism is one of the world's oldest monotheistic religions, founded by the prophet Zarathustra in ancient Persia, perhaps more than three thousand years ago. Followers worship Ahura Mazda, the Wise Lord, and live by the threefold path of good thoughts, good words and good deeds. Zoroastrian communities in the United States are small but close-knit, and NAWD is ready to list associations and gatherings in North Alabama.
Beliefs
Zoroastrians believe that the world is a place where truth, called asha, contends with falsehood, and that each person helps shape the outcome by choosing good. Fire is revered as a symbol of divine light and purity, and so are water, earth and air, which followers strive to keep clean. The Avesta is the sacred collection of texts, including the Gathas attributed to Zarathustra.
Worship and community
Traditional worship takes place before a sacred fire in a fire temple, and in North America most communities gather in cultural centers and associations for prayers and celebrations. Children are initiated with the sudreh and kusti, the white garment and sacred cord that followers wear. Many Zoroastrians in the United States are Parsi, with ancestry in India, or Iranian.
Holy days
Nowruz, the new year at the spring equinox, is the most widely celebrated festival. Others include Khordad Sal, the birthday of Zarathustra, and the seasonal Gahambar feasts.
Visiting
Inner fire temple areas are traditionally reserved for Zoroastrians, but many communities welcome guests to cultural events. Contact the organizers first.