Zoroastrianism in

Azerbaijan
By: Ulvi Yusifli
 Zoroastrianism
• One of the world's oldest monotheistic religions.

• Founded by Prophet Zoroaster (or Zarathustra) in ancient Iran 3500 years

ago.

Zoroaster
 Zoroastrianism
• God - Ahura Mazda (Wise Lord) created the world

• They are NOT fire-worshippers. They believe that the elements are pure
and that fire represents God's light or wisdom.

Ahura Mazda
 Zoroastrianism?

• Ahura Mazda revealed the truth through the Prophet , Zoroaster.

• They worship in fire temple.

• Holy scriptures : The Avesta

 Avesta
The Avesta can be roughly split into two main sections:

• The Avesta is the oldest and core part of the scriptures, which contains
the Gathas. The Gathas are seventeen hymns thought to be composed
by Zoroaster himself.

• The Younger Avesta - commentaries to the older Avesta written in later

years. It also contains myths, stories and details of ritual observances.
 History of Zoroastrianism

• For 1000 years it was one of the most powerful religions in the world.

• Official religion of Persia (Iran) from 600 BCE to 650 CE.

• During the rule of King Darius I, Zoroastrianism was the official religion of
the Achaemenid Empire including Azerbaijan.

• Alexander the Great, King of Macedonia defeated Darius III and during
this period Zoroastrianism began to weaken.
Influence of Zoroastrianism to Azerbaijani culture

• The name Azerbaijan is Persian and means "protect(or) of Fire", which has
a direct link with Zoroastrianism (“Azar” means fire).

• Highly respected religion in Azerbaijan and new year Novruz is still

celebrated as main holiday.

• Traces of the religion are still visible in Surakhany, Khinalyg, and Yanar
Dag, Ateshgah.
Influence of Zoroastrianism to Azerbaijani culture

The Baku Ateshgah

Based on Persian and

Indian inscriptions,
the temple was used
as a Hindu, Sikh,
and Zoroastrian place
of worship.
Influence of Zoroastrianism to Azerbaijani culture

Novruz holiday

• Novruz is a traditional holiday, which celebrates the New Year, and the
coming of Spring (March 21)

• Novruz is one of 7 important Zoroastrian festivals

• Usually preparation begins a month prior to Novruz holiday in Azerbaijan

• People celebrate the last four Tuesdays prior to the festival being the day
of one of the four elements - water, fire, earth and wind.
Influence of Zoroastrianism to Azerbaijani
culture
Novruz holiday
■ As a tribute to Zoroastrianism beliefs, every Tuesday during four weeks
children jump over small bonfires.
Zoroastrianism after Islam arrived in Azerbaijan

• In the 7th century the Arabians conquered Persia including Azerbaijan.

During this period many Zoroastrian temples, libraries were destroyed and
burned. Many Zoroastrian texts were lost. Zoroastrians were treated
as dhimmis(People of the Book) as well as Jews and Christians by
the Arabians. It means that they could retain their religious practices, but
must pay extra taxes.
Thank you for your attention!