S. Michael Houdmann Supporter Got Questions Ministries

Zoroastrianism is based on the teachings of Zoroaster, a 6th-century BC Iranian prophet and philosopher. Zoroastrianism is almost identical with Mazdaism (the worship of Ahura Mazda, the supreme de...

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July 01 2013 • 0 responses • Vote Up • Share • Report

William M. McCoy Supporter

Regarding the idea of Zoroastrianism influencing the Hebrews, I would suggest it was the other way around. 

The book of Daniel records the presence of the exiled Hebrews, who had been captured by Nebuchadnezzar and taken to Babylon, and then when the Medo-Persian empire conquered Babylon, they were assimilated into the Medo-Persian society. The Bible identifies Daniel as having been made part of a retinue of "wise men" because of "the excellent spirit that was in him," and that he had received from God the ability to correctly interpret dreams and offer wise counsel. It was also noted that Daniel was faithful to his worship of Yahweh, even when falsely accused by others in the court, who were jealous of his position and influence with the ruler, and attempted to "frame" him by accusing him of disloyalty. The "lion's den" incident occurred as a result of Daniel's continued, regular prayers to God.

Anyway, the beliefs of Daniel, as well as the other faithful Hebrews associated with him, are sure to have influenced the Medo-Persian society and royal court, for it is quite some time later that the Magi (from Persia) show up at the court of Herod the Great, asking where to find the "one born King of the Jews." The Magi—a group considered as "wise men"—were Zoroastrians, or at least the early-stage precursors of them, and as monotheistic worshippers of Ahura Mazda (the "God of Light" which Mr. Houdemann mentions above) they were meticulous observers of the movement of stars and planets (light-bearers as representative of Ahura Mazda) for omens influencing the course of the world as they knew it. They came to Herod because, they said, "we have seen his star rise in the east and have come to worship him." Where did they get that idea? From the teachings gleaned from Daniel and the Hebrew exiles, of course, and furthermore, they were SO familiar with those teachings that they were also responsive to revealed insight. God communicated to them (not only with a special "star" phenomenon) but also in a dream, that they were not to go back to Herod. They recognized and followed that instruction, and returned to their country by a different route. We recall this contact with the "nations" when we celebrate Epiphany Sunday. These "early stage" Zoroastrians probably had a form of the beliefs that did not suffer from all the junk that got added to it with a few more centuries' accumulation of philosophical detritus, making it what it is at present, as Mr. Houdemann observes.

As the Scriptures reveal, God influences rulers and nations, and all things operate by his prerogatives, in order to glorify his Name and reputation in all the earth. We do well to remember this today as we observe happenings in our world. All things continue to operate according to HIS plan—the Lord is still at work.

February 21 2014 • 0 responses • Vote Up • Share • Report

Tony Railton Supporter

Alexander the Great was one of the most famous followers of this religion. It is one of world’s oldest religions, originating in 5th Century BC in Iran, Zoroastrianism exalts an uncreated and benevolent deity of wisdom. The scripture used is called Avesta, and theology is the dualism in cosmology. Ascribed to the teachings of the Iranian speaking spiritual leader Zoroaster, and similar to Christianity, it revolves around messianism, judgment after death, heaven and hell, and free will and may have influenced Islam, Buddhism, and Judaism.

Some scholars place its origin as a contemporary of Cyrus the Great and Darius I.

January 29 2021 • 0 responses • Vote Up • Share • Report