Zarathustra

Zarathustra, also known in Western languages as Zoroaster, is the ancient Iranian religious reformer traditionally regarded as the founder of Zoroastrianism.

Zarathustra, also known in Western languages as Zoroaster, is the ancient Iranian religious reformer traditionally regarded as the founder of Zoroastrianism. His exact dates are uncertain, but scholars generally place him in the second or early first millennium BCE. He is associated with the worship of Ahura Mazda and with teachings often described as ethical dualism.

Identity and historical setting

Zarathustra is the ancient Iranian religious figure known in Greek and Latin tradition as Zoroaster. Accounts place him in eastern or northeastern Iran, but the chronology of his life remains uncertain.

Religious teachings

He is credited with promoting devotion to Ahura Mazda and a moral opposition between truth and falsehood or good and evil. These teachings became foundational for Zoroastrianism.

Textual tradition

The oldest Zoroastrian scriptures, especially the Gathas, are traditionally associated with Zarathustra. These texts are central to understanding his religious message, though authorship and dating are debated.

Later influence

Zarathustra became a major figure in later religious and philosophical history, and his name was widely used in Western literature and thought. He is also the title figure in Nietzsche's philosophical work *Thus Spoke Zarathustra*.