Zoroastrianism
Culture & SocietyWhat is the meaning of Zoroastrianism in the Bible?
Zoroastrianism is an ancient Iranian religion founded by the prophet Zoroaster, centered on the sacred text known as the Avesta, which contains hymns and teachings attributed to the prophet and reflects pre-Christian Iranian religious traditions.
SIGNIFICANCE
Understanding Zoroastrianism provides essential historical context for the development of Jewish and Christian concepts regarding the afterlife, the nature of evil, and the figure of the Messiah, as these ideas emerged during the period of Persian dominance over the Near East.
Bible Study Quick-Reference Guide
Ancient Cultural Lens: Avoid applying 21st-century Western assumptions to Zoroastrianism. Examine how first-century or Near Eastern listeners understood this practice within their daily social dynamics.
Bible Study Reflection Prompts:
- Why did the biblical author mention Zoroastrianism in this passage?
- What cultural or historical assumption does Zoroastrianism clarify?
Related Topics
Source Attribution
Built upon the 1915 International Standard Bible Encyclopedia and Easton's Bible Dictionary (1897). Entries have been modernized, checked for academic truthfulness, and shortened for clarity.
How to Cite This Entry
"Zoroastrianism." Ancient Context Dictionary. Accessed 2026. https://ancientcontext.com/context/zoroastrianism/