Avesta facts for kids
Avesta is the most important holy book for followers of Zoroastrianism. This ancient religion began in ancient Persia. The Avesta is written in an old language called Avestan. It has also been translated into other languages like Farsi and English so more people can understand it.
The Avesta is not just one book, but a collection of different texts. The oldest and most sacred part is called the Ghathas. These are religious songs believed to have been composed by the prophet Zoroaster himself. Other important parts of the Avesta include the Yasna, Yashts, Visperad, Vendidad, and Khordeh Avesta.
Contents
What is Zoroastrianism?
Zoroastrianism is one of the world's oldest religions. It was founded by the prophet Zoroaster (also known as Zarathushtra) in ancient Iran, possibly around 1000 BCE or even earlier. It is a religion that believes in one God, called Ahura Mazda, who represents wisdom and goodness.
Followers of Zoroastrianism believe in a constant battle between good and evil. They are encouraged to choose good thoughts, good words, and good deeds. Fire is considered very sacred in Zoroastrianism, representing purity and the divine light of Ahura Mazda.
Who was Zoroaster?
Zoroaster was a prophet and the founder of Zoroastrianism. He lived in ancient Iran, but the exact time and place of his birth are debated by historians. Many scholars believe he lived sometime between 1500 and 1000 BCE.
Zoroaster taught that there is one supreme God, Ahura Mazda. He encouraged people to follow a path of truth, righteousness, and order. His teachings are found in the Gathas, which are the oldest parts of the Avesta. He emphasized the importance of free will and personal responsibility in choosing between good and evil.
Parts of the Avesta
The Avesta is made up of several different sections, each with its own purpose and content. Together, these parts form the core scriptures of Zoroastrianism.
The Gathas: Ancient Songs
The Ghathas are the oldest and most important part of the Avesta. They are a collection of 17 hymns or songs. These hymns are believed to have been composed by Zoroaster himself. They contain his direct teachings, philosophy, and prayers.
The Gathas talk about the nature of Ahura Mazda, the struggle between good and evil, and the importance of choosing a righteous path. They are written in an older form of the Avestan language.
Yasna: Worship and Prayers
The Yasna is the central liturgical text of the Avesta. It means "worship" or "sacrifice." This section contains hymns and prayers recited during the main Zoroastrian worship ceremony, also called the Yasna ceremony.
The Gathas are actually a part of the Yasna. The Yasna also includes other prayers and invocations to various divine beings. It is used daily by Zoroastrian priests in their rituals.
Yashts: Hymns to Divine Beings
The Yashts are a collection of 21 hymns. These hymns are dedicated to different divine beings or concepts within Zoroastrianism. They praise figures like Mithra (a divine judge), Anahita (a water deity), and Verethragna (a deity of victory).
The Yashts often describe the heroic deeds and powers of these divine beings. They provide insights into the mythology and cosmology of ancient Iranian beliefs.
Visperad: Special Ceremonies
The Visperad is a shorter collection of texts. Its name means "all the lords" or "all the chiefs." This section is used to supplement the Yasna liturgy during special religious ceremonies.
The Visperad contains additional invocations and praises. It helps to expand the scope of the Yasna ceremony, making it suitable for particular occasions or festivals.
Vendidad: Rules for Purity
The Vendidad is a book focused on religious laws and purification rituals. Its name means "law against demons." This section deals with rules for cleanliness, health, and how to deal with pollution or impurity.
It includes guidelines for priests, rules about burying the dead, and ways to purify oneself after coming into contact with things considered unclean. The Vendidad helps Zoroastrians maintain spiritual and physical purity.
Khordeh Avesta: Daily Prayers
The Khordeh Avesta means "Smaller Avesta." It is a book of daily prayers for ordinary Zoroastrians. It contains a selection of prayers, invocations, and blessings that can be recited at home or in a fire temple.
This section is very important for the daily religious life of Zoroastrians. It helps them connect with their faith through regular prayer and devotion.
The Avestan Language
The Avestan language is an ancient Iranian language. It is part of the Indo-Iranian branch of the Indo-European language family. It is closely related to Sanskrit, an ancient language of India.
Avestan is no longer spoken as a common language. It is primarily used as a liturgical language, meaning it is used in religious ceremonies and texts by Zoroastrian priests. Learning Avestan helps scholars understand the ancient history and culture of Iran.
Why is the Avesta Important?
The Avesta is incredibly important because it is the main source of knowledge about Zoroastrianism. It contains the teachings of Zoroaster and the religious practices of his followers. Without the Avesta, much of the history and beliefs of this ancient religion would be lost.
It helps Zoroastrians around the world connect with their heritage and practice their faith. For historians and linguists, the Avesta is also a valuable source for understanding ancient Iranian culture, languages, and religious thought.
Images for kids
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Yasna 28.1 (Bodleian MS J2)
See also
In Spanish: Avesta para niños
