World European Center of Zoroastrian Studies - Paris

In April 2008, after several years of construction, the inauguration of a branch of the World European Center of Zoroastrian Studies took place in Paris, in the luxurious 16th precinct. It is located on Avenue Victor Hugo, for those who have been to France, down the street from the Arc de Triomphe in downtown Paris.

The center consists of 3 floors, including an auditorium and several salons for presentation. A marble staircase leads upstairs to a conference room, and an extensive library.

Present at the inauguration were Abtin Sassanfar the founder of the Center, Homer Abramian, amongst other lead advocates for Zoroastriansim.

The inauguration shows lots of promise for the recent Zoroastrian converts in Europe, and members who wish to extensively research ancient Zoroastrian culture, including the Pahlavi culture and language of the Avesta. Farsi lessons are likely to take place within the center.

There are also talks of a mobed (Zoroastrian priest) occupying the center frequently in order to perfrom sedreh pushi ceremonies whenever necessary which would greatly increase interest of current non-Zoroastrians.


I will post pictures as soon as I get them and a possible translation of the transcript of speeches given.

A Few Zoroastrian Themes

Zarathushtra


Zarathushtra is the prophet of Zoroastrianism, what is said to be the first monotheistic religion. , dating between 3000-6000 years ago. The Gathas are the words spoken directly from God to Zarathushtra and represent the Holy scriptures. The Gathas are in the Avestan language, the Avesta being Zoroastrian prayers.


Good Vs. Evil


There is an internal battle between Good and Evil with people, and Zoroastrians believe the Good will ultimately prevail and destroy the Evil.

Zoroastrians believe that Ahura Mazda represents the Good. He created the world, mankind, and all that is good. He follows the practice of Good Thoughts, Good Words, and Good Deeds, and Zoroastrians believe that through practicing those tenets, they may find the path to righteousness. Opposing him is Anghra Mainyu, the embodiment of evil, similar to the devil. Ahura Mazda will defeat Anghra Mainyu in the struggle between Good and Evil.


"Fire Worshippers"

Zoroastrians are known as fire worshippers, but they also worship the other elements: Earth, water, and air.

Zoroastrians Today

Zoroastrianism was founded in Persia, which was renamed Iran in the 1930's, but presently Iran is dominated by Muslims. Less than 2% of the population in Zoroastrian. The majority of the Zoroastrians are in India. They are there because following the Arab Invasions in the 7th century, many Zoroastrians avoided persecution by escaping to India. The Zoroastrians who are Indian have taken on the name "Parsi".

Welcome to the blog

Religion is one the greatest sources of peace and comfort. It is also the cause of much suffering and persecution, as is the case when religious principles are taken too far. But the purpose of this blog is not to point out any particular war or persecution that has taken place. Instead the focus will be the rebuilding process of one religion that is on the brink of extinction according to some demographers: Zoroastrianism. Founded between 3000-6000 years ago in ancient Persia(Religioustolerance.org), or modern-day Iran, Zoroastrianism preached that the only righteous path in life was through good thoughts, good words, and good deeds. It was a prospering and peaceful religion under such rulers as Cyrus the Great, but unfortunately after the Arab invasions in the 7th century, Zoroastrianism was discouraged and Islam became the dominant religion in Persia. Presently, the largest population of Zoroastrians is in India, and go by the name of Parsi. The percentage that inhabits present-day Iran is less than 2%, although it is a common perception is that the total number is not accurately reported for fear of not being Muslim (CIA). The world population of Zoroastrians is an estimated 200,000 as of the beginning of 2008 (Religioustolerance.org).

Zoroastrianism has persisted to exist, but one major concern amongst the remaining population is the marriage of Zoroastrians to non-Zoroastrians. One reason for hope is the number of people dedicated to establishing centers for research and knowledge of the ancient Zoroastrian culture around the world. Such centers exist in Tajikistan, Australia, Belgium, and one was recently built in Paris, France. As a result, many Iranians are seeking refuge outside Iran to be able to enjoy religious freedom. In turn, Europeans, Muslims or otherwise are becoming knowledgeable in the religion. The interest in Zoroastrianism lies in the fact that although it is an ancient religion, it is very progressive and mind-oriented. The basic rights of humans such as freedom of choice, equality of men and women, righteousness, friendship and pursuit of individual happiness are highly respected. With time and devoted followers, the anciently prominent religion can once again become well-known as more and more people become informed of its values.



https://www.cia.gov/library/publications/the-world-factbook/geos/ir.html

http://www.religioustolerance.org/zoroastr.htm