Zoroaster, also known as Zarathustra, was the prophet and founder of Zoroastrianism, one of the world’s oldest monotheistic religions. The life of Zoroaster is not precisely dated, but scholars generally place him in the 6th or 7th century BCE. His teachings form the core of Zoroastrian theology, and he is considered a central figure in the religious history of ancient Persia.

Key aspects of Zoroaster’s life and teachings include:

1. Life and Background:
   • Zoroaster’s birthplace is believed to be in the region of present-day northeastern Iran or southwestern Afghanistan. His birth and early life are surrounded by legend and myth.
   • According to tradition, Zoroaster had a divine encounter at the age of 30, where he received a series of revelations from the supreme deity, Ahura Mazda.
2. Divine Revelation:
   • Zoroaster’s encounter with Ahura Mazda is described in the Gathas, hymns that are considered the earliest and most sacred texts of Zoroastrianism. The Gathas are part of the Avesta, the holy scriptures of the religion.
   • In these revelations, Ahura Mazda appointed Zoroaster as a prophet and bestowed upon him the task of spreading monotheism and ethical teachings.
3. Teachings and Theology:
   • Zoroaster’s teachings emphasized the worship of Ahura Mazda as the one supreme, transcendent deity. He introduced the concept of dualism, with the cosmic struggle between Ahura Mazda (the force of good) and Angra Mainyu (Ahriman, the force of evil).
   • Zoroaster’s ethical teachings emphasized righteousness, truthfulness, and the pursuit of good thoughts, words, and deeds.
4. Opposition and Persecution:
   • Zoroaster faced opposition from the existing religious authorities and the supporters of the traditional polytheistic beliefs of ancient Persia. According to tradition, he faced persecution and hardships during his mission.
5. Conversion of King Vishtaspa:
   • Zoroaster’s efforts to spread his teachings eventually found success with the conversion of King Vishtaspa, a powerful ruler in ancient Persia. The conversion of Vishtaspa and his court played a crucial role in the acceptance of Zoroastrianism.
6. Legacy:
   • Zoroaster is revered as the founding prophet of Zoroastrianism, and his teachings laid the foundation for the religious and ethical principles of the faith.
   • His legacy includes the Avesta, which consists of hymns, prayers, and rituals attributed to him. The Gathas are particularly revered as the words directly spoken by Zoroaster.
7. Later Influence:
   • Zoroaster’s influence extended beyond the borders of ancient Persia. His teachings, particularly the concepts of monotheism and the cosmic struggle between good and evil, are believed to have influenced later monotheistic religions, including Judaism, Christianity, and Islam.

Zoroaster’s contributions to religious thought and the establishment of Zoroastrianism marked a significant development in the religious landscape of ancient Persia. His teachings continue to be studied and practiced by Zoroastrians, and his influence on the broader history of religion remains a subject of scholarly exploration.