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Zoroastrianism

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Although most Zoroastrians remain near Bombay and in smaller numbers in Iran, some have migrated to many places in the world (including America).

They try to maintain their faith by encouraging marriage within the faith.

They also do not seek converts (a concession to being allowed sanctuary in India).

However, they have an unproportional influence upon society through business, industry, philanthropic endeavors and the promotion of education.

In Zoroastrianism, it is worldly pursuits rather than ascetic practices that are the spiritual ideal. This religion does not withdraw from the world but seeks to improve it (as does Judaism). It is world affirming.

These worldly pursuits are in direct relationship to their beliefs:

• The world progresses through service which leads to happiness

• Industry for progress is the form that service takes

• This progression is the evolution of the world to higher and better stages wherein Goodness will prevail

• The goal of life is happiness through self-sacrifice to others. Man is seen as a servant in service to all elements of nature and the world

• Personal values lie in hope in the future life and charity in this world to the negation of personal, mundane desires

• Each person is to serve each other person, thus are we both servant and the served

• Righteousness is the key virtue for fulfilling our role in this progress of cosmic evolution

• Faith, knowledge, and love must work together in a person for his or her best progress