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Zoroastrianism probably began in Persia (modern-day Iran) several centuries before the birth of Christ; the first written records of it come from Herodotus in the 5th Century B.C. Zoroastrianism was the official religion of the Achaemenid and Sassanid Empires, after whose collapse it was marginalized, most significantly by the spread of Islam.
Zoroastrians were often very resistant to conversion to Islam, but the persecution became forceful enough after awhile that there were few realistic choices other than converting and leaving. Many Persian and Central Asian Zoroastrians fled to India.
India, today, has the largest Zoroastrian population of any country. The second-largest population and most Zoroastrian religious authorities remain in Iran. Substantial numbers live in other South Asian countries, as well as the United States and the United Kingdom. In all, there are between 200,000 and 300,000 Zoroastrians in the world.
Another cause for Zoroastrianism's decline, in addition to persecution, has been its objections to proselytizing. Indian Zoroastrians believe that acts intended to convert are criminal and merit expulsion. Though Iranian Zoroastrians are more open to the idea, the Islamic government of Iran will not allow it. Nevertheless, the World Christian Encyclopedia calculated that Zoroastrian population grew by 2.65% from 1990 to 2000, substantially faster than any other religion.
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What civilization recognized Zoroastrianism as a religion?
ancient Persians
Was Freddie Mercury Muslim?
No, Freddy Mercury was not Arabic nor muslim. He was Parsee, thus followed the religion of Zoroastrianism.
What is Darius religion?
Many believe Darius the Great was the King of Persia who introduced and followed the teachings of Zoroaster (Zoroastrianism).
What was so distinctive about zoroastrianism?
Zoroastrianism is religion
Which of these statements contrasts Zoroastrianism with the Vedic religion?
Zoroastrianism is a monotheistic religion, whereas the Vedic religion is polytheistic.
Which civilan followed the religion of the zoroastrinism?
Ancient Persians followed Zoroastrianism. After the advent of Islam they converted to Islam. Those who did not embrace Islam fled to India where that religion is still practiced and they are called Parsis. Zen Avesta is their Holy book.
What was the persain religion?
Zoroastrianism.
What was the religion followed by the people of the Indus Valley Civilization?
Hinduism and other religions as well
What religion did the Persians follow?
Prior to the conversion to Islam, the predominant religion of Persia was Zoroastrianism.
What was the Persians religion?
Zoroastrianism or Mazdaism.
What is the name of the religion of the Persians?
Zoroastrianism
Was Freddie mercury a Muslim?
No, he followed Zoroastrianism.
