One of the world's oldest religions, Zoroastrianism is at the root of many fundamental beliefs of both Eastern and Western faiths. More than 3,000 years ago, the Persian prophet Zarathustra began a revolutionary campaign focused on the importance of personal ethics rather than obligatory rituals. His ideas flourished in ancient Persia and eventually spread to influence Judaism, Christianity, Islam, and Buddhism. Zoroastrianism, Fourth Edition analyzes how this faith has a crucial place in religious history and continues to maintain a devoted following today. Book jacket.

Paula R. Hartz was a teacher and a textbook editor and specialized in writing nonfiction and educational materials for elementary and secondary school students.

Zoroastrianism, the smallest of the world's great religions, is also one of the oldest. Founded more than 3,000 years ago by the prophet Zarathustra, it flourished in ancient Persia during the time of the Persian Empire. Scholars have long acknowledged the contributions of Zoroastrianism to other faiths, including Judaism, Christianity, Islam, and Buddhism. Concepts such as the notion of one God, heaven and hell, the dualism of good and evil, a savior to come, and everlasting life can trace their roots to the religion of Zarathustra.Zoroastrianism, Third Editiontraces the history and beliefs of Zoroastrianism and its followers' determination through centuries of persecution and hardship into the present day. The Iranian and Indian Zoroastrian communities in which the religion has thrived without missionary efforts or vast numbers of believers is also explored.Coverage includes:The message of the prophet ZarathustraThe sacred fireZoroastrianism throughout historyThe Zoroastrian scripture, the AvestaRituals, beliefs, and rites of passageTraditional versus updated Zoroastrianism.

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Excerpted from Zoroastrianism by Bender Richardson White, Paula R. Hartz, Martin Palmer
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