zoroastrianism
/,zɔrou'æstriənizm/
Học thuậtThân thiện
Definition
- Proper noun:
- A monotheistic pre-Islamic religion of ancient Persia: Zoroastrianism is a system of religion founded in Persia in the 6th century BC by the prophet Zoroaster (Zarathustra). Its core doctrine is based on the cosmic struggle between light (good, represented by the deity Ahura Mazda) and dark (evil, represented by Angra Mainyu). Its sacred texts are collected in the Avesta.
Usage
- Zoroastrianism is used as a proper noun to name the specific religion. It is typically not used with articles (a, the) when referring to the religion as a whole.
- Zoroastrianism was the dominant religion of the Persian Empire for centuries.
- The core tenets of Zoroastrianism influenced later Abrahamic faiths.
Advanced Usage
- Adjectival form: The term Zoroastrian is used as an adjective or to refer to a follower of the religion.
- She studies Zoroastrian rituals. (Adjective)
- He is a Zoroastrian. (Noun, referring to a person)
Variants and Related Words
- Zoroastrian (adj., n.): Of or relating to Zoroaster or Zoroastrianism; a follower of Zoroastrianism.
- Zarathustrianism (n.): An alternate name for Zoroastrianism, derived from the prophet's name in Avestan (Zarathustra).
- Mazdaism (n.): Another term for Zoroastrianism, emphasizing the worship of the supreme deity, Ahura Mazda.
Synonyms
- Mazdaism: Emphasizes the worship of Ahura Mazda.
- Zarathustrianism: The religion of Zarathustra.
Related Concepts (Not Phrasal Verbs or Idioms)
- Ahura Mazda: The supreme god, the wise lord, and the force of good in Zoroastrianism.
- Angra Mainyu (or Ahriman): The destructive spirit, the force of evil.
- Avesta: The primary collection of sacred Zoroastrian texts.
- Faravahar: A well-known symbol of Zoroastrianism, depicting a winged disc with a human figure.
Noun
- system of religion founded in Persia in the 6th century BC by Zoroaster; set forth in the Zend-Avesta; based on concept of struggle between light (good) and dark (evil)