Death
What is death according to Avesta?
Death is described as the separation of the corporeal skeleton from the consciousness of man.
Why is the birth of a child considered auspicious in Zoroastrianism?
It is seen as a blessing from the Yazatas, and having good children is considered a gift.
Why is Zoroastrianism considered a ritual-intensive religion?
It is one of the oldest religions, and rituals play a significant role in maintaining religious traditions and spiritual connections.
What is the purpose of the Patet Pashemani prayer in the investiture ceremony?
It is a prayer for repentance, cleansing oneself of wrong actions, and returning to the path of truth and goodness.
For how many nights does the soul remain near the body after death in Zoroastrian belief?
The soul remains near the body for three nights under the protection of angel Sraosha.
What is the significance of the Haoma-juice given to a newborn?
According to the "Hom Yasht" prayers, it is believed to make the child healthy.
What are the two main types of Zoroastrian rituals?
Inner (pāvmehel) rituals, such as Yasna and Vendidad, and outer (hoshmordi) rituals, such as Afringan and Jashan.
Why is the kusti wound around the initiate's waist during the ceremony?
It symbolizes the commitment to Mazda worship, with knots representing actions performed in the name of Ahura Mazda
What happens to the body in the Sachkar ceremony?
The body is washed, covered with a used sudreh, and a kushti is tied around the waist as a final bath
Why do Parsi marriages traditionally take place after sunset?
It was a pledge made to the ruler Jadav Rana when the Parsis arrived in Sanjan, and it symbolizes the union of day and night.
What is the purpose of life cycle rituals in Zoroastrianism?
They serve religious, spiritual, and social purposes, marking important events like birth, initiation, marriage, and death
What does the Confirmation of Faith prayer signify in the investiture ceremony?
It is a pledge by the initiate to follow Zoroastrian teachings with pure thoughts, words, and deeds.
What is the purpose of the Gehsarna ceremony?
It involves the recital of the Ahunavaiti Gatha by two priests, helping the soul leave the body through the vibrationary effect of prayers.
What does the "Haathvaaro" (hand-fastening) ceremony symbolize?
The tying of hands and wrapping of the thread seven times symbolize the strength of the marital union.
What is the function of the Kushti ritual?
It is performed to protect, cleanse, and energize the individual.
How does the Iranian Navjote ceremony differ from the Indian Parsi version?
The Iranian version is simplified, often omitting the consecrated bath (nahn) and using different prayers in Farsi.
Who are the three judges that weigh a person's deeds after death?
The judges are Mitra (Meher), Sraosha, and Rashnu.
What is the purpose of showering the couple with rice during the wedding ceremony?
It symbolizes prosperity and blessings for the couple.
How do rituals help Zoroastrians connect with the divine?
They invoke divine beings, establish communication with Ahura Mazda, and reinforce religious teachings.
Why is a fire or oil lamp kept burning during the investiture ceremony?
It symbolizes divine presence and helps create a sacred space for the ritual.