The spelling of "Zoroaster" is based on its pronunciation, which is /ˌzɒrəʊˈæstər/ in IPA phonetic transcription. The first syllable "Zor" sounds like "sore" but with a "z" sound, followed by "o" with a short "oh" sound, and "as" with a short "a" sound. The final syllable "ter" is pronounced like "tur" but with an "er" sound at the end. Zoroaster was a Persian prophet and founder of Zoroastrianism, one of the world's oldest monotheistic religions.
Zoroaster, also known as Zarathustra, is a historical figure and the founder of the ancient Persian religion of Zoroastrianism. He was a religious philosopher and prophet, believed to have lived during the 6th or 7th century BCE. Zoroaster is considered one of the most significant religious figures in the history of Persia, and his teachings laid the foundation for the development of Zoroastrianism.
Zoroaster's teachings emphasized the concept of monotheism, with the belief in one supreme deity called Ahura Mazda. He presented Ahura Mazda as the ultimate creator and source of all goodness and light, in a cosmic struggle against the forces of evil and darkness. Zoroastrianism taught the importance of leading a righteous life, upholding ethical values, and striving for moral balance. The religion included rituals and practices, such as fire worship, purification ceremonies, and prayers, which were aimed at maintaining spiritual purity and spiritual connection with Ahura Mazda.
Zoroaster's teachings were collected in hymns and scriptures known as the Avesta, which formed the holy texts of Zoroastrianism. While the exact details of Zoroaster's life and the development of his religion are unclear due to limited historical records, his ideas and beliefs had a profound impact on the cultural, religious, and philosophical traditions of ancient Persia, as well as on later religions such as Judaism, Christianity, and Islam. Today, Zoroastrianism is practiced by a small community primarily in Iran and India, and Zoroaster continues to be revered as the central figure of this ancient religion.
The great legislator and prophet of the anc. Bactrians, whose system of religion was the national faith of Persia, and is embodied in the Zend-Avesta.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
The name "Zoroaster" is derived from the Greek form of the original Old Iranian name "Zarathustra". The Old Iranian form of the name is "Zaratustra", meaning "Golden Camel" or "Camel with Yellow Knees". This etymology is based on the combination of the words "zara" (golden) and "ustra" (camel). Zoroaster, also known as Zarathustra, was an ancient Iranian prophet and the founder of Zoroastrianism, one of the world's oldest continuously practiced religions.