History of Zoroastrianism

Zoroastrianism is one of the world's oldest monotheistic religions, founded by the prophet Zoroaster (or Zarathustra) in ancient Persia, around the 6th century BCE. It emphasizes the battle between the forces of good (Ahura Mazda) and evil (Angra Mainyu). Central tenets include the importance of ethical living, truth, and the afterlife. The religion influenced various belief systems, including Judaism, Christianity, and Islam. Although it once thrived in Persia, its followers, known as Zoroastrians, diminished after the Islamic conquest in the 7th century, primarily surviving in India and Iran today.