Zend-Avesta
Học thuậtThân thiện
Definition
Proper noun A sacred collection of texts that forms the core of the Zoroastrian religious scripture. It contains the teachings of the prophet Zoroaster (Zarathustra) and is composed in the Avestan language.
Usage
The term "Zend-Avesta" is used to refer to the complete body of Zoroastrian sacred writings. It is a historical and scholarly term. * Scholars study the Zend-Avesta to understand ancient Persian religion and culture. * The Zend-Avesta contains hymns, rituals, and laws.
Advanced Usage
- The name "Zend-Avesta" traditionally combines "Avesta" (the text) and "Zend" (its commentary or interpretation). In modern scholarship, "Avesta" is the preferred term for the scriptures themselves.
- It is often discussed in the context of comparative religion and ancient Indo-Iranian languages.
Variants and Related Words
- Avesta (n): The more precise modern term for the Zoroastrian sacred texts.
- Zend (n): Historically referred to the commentary or translation of the Avesta, often in Pahlavi (Middle Persian).
Synonyms
- Avesta
- Zoroastrian scriptures
Noun
- a collection of Zoroastrian texts gathered during the 4th or 6th centuries