This text describes the realities of modern Parsi religion through 30 interviews in which urban Parsis belonging to different social milieus and religious schools of thought discuss various aspects of their religious lives. Zoroastrianism, the faith founded by the Iranian prophet Zarathustra, originated around 1000BCE and is widely regarded as the world's first revealed religion. Although the number of its followers declined dramatically in the centuries after the 7th century Islamic conquest of Iran, Zoroastrians survive in Iran to the present day. The other major Zoroastrian community are the Parsis of India, descendants of Zoroastrians who fled Muslim dominion.

Rituals play a prominent role in Zoroastrianism, one of the oldest religious traditions of mankind. In this book, scholars from a broad range of disciplines make the first ever collective effort to discuss Zoroastrian rituals in different historical contexts and geographical settings.

What is the distinctive Zoroastrian experience, and what is the common diasporic experience? The Zoroastrian Diaspora is the outcome of twenty years of research and of archival and fieldwork in eleven countries, involving approximately 250,000 miles of travel. It has also involved a survey questionnaire in eight countries, yielding over 1,840 responses. This is the first book to attempt a global comparison of Diaspora groups in six continents. Little has been written about Zoroastrian communities as far apart as China, East Africa, Europe, America, and Australia or on Parsis in Mumbai post-Independence. Each chapter is based on unused original sources ranging from nineteenth century archives to contemporary newsletters. The book also includes studies of Zoroastrians on the Internet, audio-visual resources, and the modern development of Parsi novels in English. As well as studying the Zoroastrians for their own inherent importance, this book contextualizes the Zoroastrian migrations within contemporary debates on Diaspora studies. John R. Hinnells examines what it is like to be a religious Asian in Los Angeles or London, Sydney or Hong Kong. Moreover, he explores not only how experience differs from one country to another, but also the differences between cities in the same country, for example, Chicago and Houston. The survey data is used firstly to consider the distinguishing demographic features of the Zoroastrian communities in various countries; and secondly to analyse different patterns of assimilation between different groups: men and women and according to the level and type of education. Comparisons are also drawn between people from rural and urban backgrounds; and between generations in religious beliefs and practices, including the preservation of secular culture.

For many centuries, from the birth of the religion late in the second millennium BC to its influence on the Achaemenids and later adoption in the third century AD as the state religion of the Sasanian Empire, it enjoyed imperial patronage and profoundly shaped the culture of antiquity. The Magi of the New Testament most probably were Zoroastrian priests from the Iranian world, while the enigmatic figure of Zarathushtra (or Zoroaster) himself has exerted continual fascination in the West, influencing creative artists as diverse as Voltaire, Nietzsche, Mozart and Yeats. This authoritative volume brings together internationally recognised scholars to explore Zoroastrianism in all its rich complexity. Examining key themes such as history and modernity, tradition and scripture, art and architecture and minority status and religious identity, it places the modern Zoroastrians of Iran, and the Parsis of India, in their proper contexts. The book extends and complements the coverage of its companion volume, The Everlasting Flame.

Winfried Corduan describes both the beliefs and the real-life practices of major and minor world religions, including Judaism, Islam, Hinduism, Buddhism, Jainism, Sikhism Native American religions and Baha'i.

Get ready to embark on an exhilarating journey of knowledge and introspection with my groundbreaking non-fiction book, "The Comprehensive Auditing of Death and Dying." This masterpiece is a heartfelt tribute to the brilliant minds of scientists, philosophers, and healthcare professionals who have fueled my passion for this profound subject. Let's face it, discussing death can be daunting and unsettling. However, it's an inevitable part of our human experience, and my book is here to empower you with a profound understanding and insightful ways to prepare for this natural phenomenon. Sensitive souls, fear not! I am fully aware of the emotional weight that comes with broaching the topic of death and dying. Rest assured, my book is a compassionate guide that will help you navigate this delicate subject with grace, empathy, and acceptance. We'll dive deep into the physiological and psychological aspects of dying, explore the significance of end-of-life care, unravel the intricacies of the grieving process, and examine the profound impact of death on families and communities. Buckle up for a thrilling ride! But that's not all. I'll also take you on an enchanting exploration of various cultural and religious perspectives on death. Together, we'll uncover how these diverse beliefs shape our attitudes towards the inevitable. As the author, I've approached this sacred subject with utmost sensitivity and caution, recognizing its deeply personal nature. So, I kindly urge you to approach my book with a mature and open mind, as we delve into these profound matters. Your voice matters! I'm genuinely thrilled to hear your thoughts, opinions, and personal experiences on this thought-provoking topic. Your perspective will enrich our collective understanding and foster meaningful discussions. In light of the devastating loss of life during the Covid-19 pandemic, my book takes on an even deeper significance. Together, let's embark on this exciting and profound journey towards comprehending death and dying in all its facets. Get ready to be enlightened, inspired, and forever changed

This fascinating volume consists of articles by world-renowned scholars of Zoroastrian, Iranian, Parsi, and Jewish studies. The topics covered range from the prophet Zarathushtra (Zoroaster) and the ancient Indo-Iranians to the modern Zoroastrians and Jews of Iran and India. Insightful descriptions of divinities and demons, priests and laity will capture the attention of readers as will absorbing discussions of good and evil, rituals and documents, and of communities past and present.

A guide to the historical development, beliefs, and practices of the world's religions.