Wisdom literature

Zoroastrian religion has a large body of literature in the Pahlavi language which has a lot of worldly wisdom in it. That is why it is also known as Wisdom literature. These books were written in the Sasanian period (3rd to 7th century CE) in Iran by priests, kings and holy men.

These advise and counsel are based on popular, practical, worldly instructions and are not too metaphysical or philosophical in nature. They are practical as well as religious. Most of them are valid as much today as when they were composed.

The general tenor of the teachings is that man should enjoy the good things of this world, while at the same time be mindful of eternal life by right and reasonable conduct.

The counsels are balanced and practical. The keynote is generally on moderation. There is no advocacy of pursuing extremes, hence asceticism and hedonism are to be avoided. There are no commands to love one’s enemy or to silently suffer oppression. One is advised to be wise enough to be out of the way of the enemy, if the enemy is too powerful.