Sacred Text Avesta

The Sacred Text of Avesta in Zoroastrianism

The Avesta is the primary collection of sacred texts of Zoroastrianism, one of the world's oldest continuously practiced religions. Zoroastrianism, founded by the prophet Zoroaster (or Zarathustra) in ancient Persia, is centered on the worship of Ahura Mazda, the supreme god. The Avesta serves as the cornerstone of Zoroastrian religious literature, encompassing hymns, prayers, and ritual guidelines.

Historical Background

The compilation of the Avesta spans several centuries, with its oldest portions, the Gathas, attributed directly to Zoroaster himself, dating back to around 1500-1000 BCE. These ancient hymns are considered the core of the Zoroastrian liturgy and provide profound insights into the teachings and spiritual visions of Zoroaster. The majority of the Avesta, however, was composed and compiled over a more extended period, particularly during the Sassanian Empire (224-651 CE), when Zoroastrianism was the state religion of Persia.

Structure and Contents

The Avesta is divided into several sections, each serving different religious and liturgical functions:

• Yasna: This is the primary liturgical text, used in Zoroastrian worship ceremonies. It includes the Gathas, which are a series of 17 hymns believed to be the direct words of Zoroaster. The Yasna provides detailed instructions for the ritual of worship, including the preparation and offering of the sacred drink Haoma.
• Visperad: Often recited in conjunction with the Yasna, the Visperad is a collection of supplementary texts that enhance and elaborate on the main liturgical ceremonies. It focuses on prayers and invocations to various divine beings and cosmic principles.
• Vendidad: Also known as the Videvdad, this section contains religious laws, mythological accounts, and instructions on purification rituals. It addresses issues of cleanliness, moral conduct, and the spiritual battle between good and evil forces.
• Yashts: These are hymns dedicated to individual deities or divine concepts within the Zoroastrian pantheon. Each Yasht is a detailed invocation and praise of a specific god or goddess, emphasizing their attributes and roles in the cosmic order.
• Khordeh Avesta: This "Little Avesta" is a compilation of shorter prayers and daily invocations meant for use by laypeople. It includes selections from the Yasna, Yashts, and other texts, providing a more accessible version of Zoroastrian liturgical content.

Language and Preservation

The original language of the Avesta is Avestan, an ancient Iranian language closely related to Sanskrit. The preservation and transmission of these texts have been a significant challenge throughout history. During the Islamic conquests of Persia in the 7th century, many Zoroastrian texts were lost or destroyed. However, dedicated Zoroastrian priests preserved the Avesta through oral tradition and later written manuscripts.

Significance in Zoroastrianism

The Avesta holds a central place in Zoroastrian religious life, serving as both a liturgical guide and a theological foundation. Its hymns and prayers are integral to the daily worship practices and major religious ceremonies of Zoroastrians worldwide. The Avesta's teachings on the dualistic nature of the cosmos, the importance of moral righteousness, and the eventual triumph of good over evil continue to inspire and guide adherents of the faith.

Conclusion

The Avesta is not merely a religious text but a vital link to the ancient spiritual heritage of Zoroastrianism. Its hymns, prayers, and rituals embody the profound wisdom and divine revelations of Zoroaster, offering a timeless source of spiritual guidance and inspiration for Zoroastrians. As one of the world's most ancient sacred scriptures, the Avesta stands as a testament to the enduring legacy of Zoroastrianism and its contributions to the spiritual and cultural history of humanity.