Introduction to Zoroastrianism, its historical significance, and preliminary exploration of its teachings.

• Zoroastrianism is one of the most influential religious traditions in history, associated primarily with Iran and Central Asia.
• Its core stretches back far into antiquity, with billions of followers worldwide over the course of history.
• The religion offers a dualistic worldview, emphasizing the struggle between good and evil, light and darkness.

The origins of Zoroastrianism with Zarathustra and the significance of the Gathas.

• Zarathustra, the founder of Zoroastrianism, is considered a poet and sage, and his hymns, the Gathas, form the beginning of the religion.
• Dated around 1500 BC, the Gathas are some of the earliest religious literature, reflecting a society similar to the Vedic culture in India.
• The religion's teachings, including the concepts of Asha (truth) and Druj (deception), evolved over time, influencing and being influenced by neighboring cultures.

Exploration of Zoroastrianism's core teachings and cosmological views.

• Zoroastrianism is based on the worship of Ahura Mazda, the wise Lord, and the battle against Angra Mainyu, the destructive spirit.
• The religion emphasizes ethical actions through good thoughts, words, and deeds, influencing the afterlife's outcome.
• The existence of Amesha Spentas (holy Immortals) and Yazatas (beings worthy of worship) complicates the idea of Zoroastrian monotheism.

Zoroastrianism during the Achaemenid Empire, emphasizing its royal support and evolving practices.

• The Achaemenid rulers, like Darius, promoted Zoroastrianism and perceived themselves as representatives of Ahura Mazda.
• Natural elements like fire and water were central to worship, with fire temples and altars becoming increasingly significant.
• During the later Achaemenid period, images of Yazatas began to appear, with Mithra and Anahita being particularly revered.

Zoroastrianism's continued evolution and codification during the Parthian and Sasanian Empires.

• The Parthian period saw the emergence of fire temples, Magi priesthood, and the preservation of Avestan scriptures.
• In the Sasanian period, Zoroastrianism became more defined with an emphasis on orthodoxy and the suppression of heretical movements.
• The development of Middle Persian texts further solidified Zoroastrian doctrines, and the religion played a significant role in state affairs.

The Arab conquest's impact on Zoroastrianism, including periods of tolerance and persecution.

• Post-conquest, Zoroastrians were classified as 'People of the Book' and were generally allowed to practice their religion.
• During the Umayyad caliphate, non-Arabs were discouraged from converting to Islam, allowing Zoroastrianism to flourish.
• Later, the Abbasid caliphate enforced more stringent rules, leading to a decline in Zoroastrian numbers and the rise of the Parsi community in India.

An overview of the daily religious practices, sacred liturgy, and festivals in Zoroastrianism.

• The Yasna liturgy involves the preparation of the sacred haoma drink and recitation of Avestan scriptures.
• Zoroastrians perform five daily prayers and wear a Kusti cord, symbolizing their commitment to the faith.
• Seasonal festivals, such as Gahambars and Nowruz, are essential to the religious calendar, celebrating creation and the Amesha Spentas.

Explanation of Zoroastrian burial customs and the concept of the Fravashi.

• Zoroastrians practice sky burials in Dakhmas (Towers of Silence) to avoid polluting natural elements with dead bodies.
• The Fravashi represents the higher self of an individual, with which they reunite after death.
• The symbol commonly associated with Zoroastrianism is likely a Fravashi, representing the protection and guidance of the soul.

Discussion on the influence of Zoroastrianism on the development of Abrahamic religions.

• Zoroastrianism's dualistic cosmology and eschatological beliefs are reflected in Judaism, Christianity, and Islam.
• Jewish exposure to Zoroastrianism during the Babylonian exile likely contributed to the development of concepts like Satan and the end-times judgment.
• The religion's legacy continues to influence religious thought and practice even after centuries of diminished prominence.