Module 1 Module 1: Origins and Founding of Zoroastrianism

Origins and Founding of Zoroastrianism

Introduction

Core content I

Core content II

Core content III

Summary

Further learning

Module 2 Module 2: The Zoroastrian Cosmology

The Zoroastrian Cosmology

Introduction

Core content I

Core content II

Core content III

Summary

Further learning

Module 3 Module 3: The Role of Fire in Zoroastrian Worship

The Role of Fire in Zoroastrian Worship

Introduction

Core content I

Core content II

Core content III

Summary

Further learning

Module 4 Module 4: Key Texts and Sacred Writings

Key Texts and Sacred Writings

Introduction

Core content I

Core content II

Core content III

Summary

Further learning

Module 5 Module 5: Zoroastrian Ethics and Dualism

Zoroastrian Ethics and Dualism

Introduction

Core content I

Core content II

Core content III

Summary

Further learning

Knowledge check

Q1. What is the central ethical principle in Zoroastrianism?

A. Renouncing all desires
B. Doing what is good and avoiding what is evil ✓
C. Achieving complete detachment from the world
D. Following the teachings of the prophets

Why: The central ethical principle in Zoroastrianism is based on the concept of 'asha,' which emphasizes doing what is good and avoiding what is evil.

Q2. Who is the supreme deity in Zoroastrianism?

A. Ahura Mazda ✓
B. Angra Mainyu
C. Mithra
D. Ormazd

Why: Ahura Mazda is the supreme deity in Zoroastrianism, representing the forces of good, truth, and order.

Q3. What is the Zoroastrian concept of dualism primarily concerned with?

A. The balance between wealth and poverty
B. The cosmic struggle between good and evil ✓
C. The harmony between nature and humans
D. The equality between men and women

Why: Zoroastrian dualism is primarily concerned with the cosmic struggle between good (represented by Ahura Mazda) and evil (represented by Angra Mainyu).

Q4. Which of the following is considered a 'good creation' in Zoroastrian cosmology?

A. Fire ✓
B. Darkness
C. Deceit
D. Lies

Why: Fire is considered a 'good creation' in Zoroastrian cosmology, symbolizing purity, truth, and the divine.

Q5. What is the ultimate goal of a Zoroastrian believer?

A. To live a life of solitude
B. To achieve spiritual enlightenment through meditation
C. To contribute to the triumph of good over evil ✓
D. To renounce all worldly possessions

Why: The ultimate goal of a Zoroastrian believer is to contribute to the triumph of good over evil, aligning with the cosmic order and the will of Ahura Mazda.

Zoroastrianism: the Ancient Faith

Course outline

Origins and Founding of Zoroastrianism

Introduction

Core content I

Core content II

Core content III

Summary

Further learning

The Zoroastrian Cosmology

Introduction

Core content I

Core content II

Core content III

Summary

Further learning

The Role of Fire in Zoroastrian Worship

Introduction

Core content I

Core content II

Core content III

Summary

Further learning

Key Texts and Sacred Writings

Introduction

Core content I

Core content II

Core content III

Summary

Further learning

Zoroastrian Ethics and Dualism

Introduction

Core content I

Core content II

Core content III

Summary

Further learning

Knowledge check

Zoroastrian Influence on Other Religions

Introduction

Core content I

Core content II

Core content III

Summary

Further learning

Modern Zoroastrian Communities

Introduction

Core content I

Core content II

Core content III

Summary

Further learning

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