The word "Avesta" is spelled with a long "a" sound followed by a short "e" sound. Using IPA phonetic transcription, the word would be spelled /əˈvɛstə/. The first sound, /ə/, is called a schwa and is pronounced like the "u" in "above." The second sound, /ˈvɛ/, is pronounced like "veh" with the stress on the first syllable. The final sound, /stə/, is pronounced like "stuh." Avesta refers to the primary collection of sacred texts of Zoroastrianism, a religion originating in ancient Persia.
Avesta refers to a sacred collection of ancient texts that are regarded as the primary scripture of Zoroastrianism, an ancient Persian religion. This comprehensive compilation of religious writings holds paramount importance among adherents of Zoroastrianism, as it contains the teachings and principles established by the prophet Zoroaster. The Avesta is believed to have been written over a long period, from around the 6th century BCE to the 7th century CE, originating in the region of modern-day Iran.
The Avesta is divided into different sections, consisting of hymns, rituals, prayers, and teachings. These texts touch upon various aspects of religious and ethical significance, detailing the doctrine of good versus evil, the importance of moral conduct, the existence of one supreme deity, Ahura Mazda, and the concept of the afterlife. Avestan language, an ancient Iranian language closely related to Old Persian, serves as the medium for conveying these religious messages.
Due to the magnitude of religious and historical importance, the Avesta is considered a vital source of information regarding ancient Persian culture, mythology, and religious practices. Its preservation and subsequent translation into various languages have enabled scholars to gain deeper insight into the philosophical and spiritual beliefs of the Zoroastrians. Thus, the Avesta stands as an essential repository of religious wisdom and as a testament to the religious and cultural heritage of ancient Persia.
The word "Avesta" comes from the Avestan language, which is an ancient Iranian language used in the sacred texts of Zoroastrianism known as the Avesta. The etymology of the word "Avesta" itself is uncertain, but it is believed to have derived from the Indo-Iranian word "apastāk", which means "text" or "book". Over time, the term "apastāk" transformed into "avistāk" and eventually into "Avesta", which came to designate the collection of Zoroastrian scriptures.