Gathic Illustration

A Zoroastrian Educational Institute

Gathic Illustration

A Healing Vision
Smith, Timothy
A frank discussion of the tragedy of September 11, 2001 that unfolded in the USAquestions just how far civilization has really come from ages past, while an account of Zarathushtra’s teachings chart a new course to a better world.
A Sky Full of Stars
McIntyre, Dina G.
In this article the reader is taken on a spiritual journey and exposed to a roam of possibilities through the strength of the treasures buried in the Gathas of Zarathushtra. The empowerment that comes from internalizing the Gathic concepts is discussed.
A Zarathushtrian Approach to Quality Management based on Gathic Values
Abreu, Dr. Jose Luis
At entrance to the 3rd millennium, modern enterprises are uncovering the importance of implementing quality control in every aspect of their business. Yet, the moral and ethical aspects of human interaction frameworks that can naturally result in quality implementation is to be found in the ancient Gathic message. The author knowledgeable in both Quality Management and the Gathic concepts is uniquely able to do justices to the subject and to further our understanding of both studies.
Any friend of Zarathushtra is a friend of ours
Abreu, Jose Luis
In this thought-provoking article the Zarathushtrian perspective on what constitutes the basis of friendship and the camaraderie of the righteous is presented.
Asha "God's Will"
Mehr, Emeritus Professor Farhang
The concept of Asha being so central to Zarathustra's Vision for creation and so fundamental to the empowerment and uplift of the humans that a comprehensive analysis of it is essential. The author has done a great job of analyzing the concept of Asha.
Buried Treasure
McIntyre, Dina G.
In this article the author shows how treasures buried in the age proven wisdom of an ancient philosopher that has been passed down through the generations can be uncovered and through understanding the symbolism, our lives can be greatly enriched and transformed. The wisdom conveyed in the message of the ancient prophet Zarathushtra is discussed in this paper.
Communicative Reason & Medieval Iranian Thought
Soroushian, Dr. Mehrborzin
Dr. Sakhai motivated by his desire to find a solution to the problem of human misery and suffering was led to Zarathushtrian studies and produced this well referenced book based on his Ph.D. research in Iranian studies at Columbia university. Very informative perspective is presented on comparison of Zarathushtra's thought with the tenets of the Abrahamic religions as well as the the theories of Marx, Weber and Habermas.
Democracy: A Zarathushtrian Perspective
Jafarey, Dr. Ali Akbar
The concept of democracy and its relation to fundamental Zarathushtrian concepts found in the Gathas, such as Asha, Vohu Manah and freedom of choice are discussed in this thought provoking paper.
Echoes of Zarathushtra in the Modern Field of Conflict Resolution
Pearlstein, Arthur
Resolving conflicts by adapting positive approaches that prevents stagnation, simulates curiosity and learning, and promotes the search for new solutions is the inference one gets from the Gathic message as elaborated in this paper.
Fire "Athra" and Fiery Test
Jahanian, Dr. Daryoush
In this document, the author searches for the significance of Fire referred in the Gathas of Zarathushtra and its symbolism. Fire and Fiery test for individuals aspiring to the attributes of perfection in creation is discussed.
For Love of Wisdom
McIntyre, Dina G.
A brief review of some of Zarathushtra's teaching is given in this very enriching document.
Fury in the Gathas
Jafarey, Dr. Ali Akbar
Humans dealing with life situations may experience spells of fury. The Gathic message suggests fury causing defiance of logic and rationality is not only destructive to mankind but also to entire living world. This article presents an an informative perspective on the subject.
Happiness
Shahriari, Shahriar
Happiness as a humanity promoting quality, and its spiritual implications for the individual and the human society at large is explored in this insightful article.
Harmony in Paradox - Part I: The Paradox of the Material and the Spiritual
McIntyre, Dina G.
This article presents some surprising conclusions regarding Zarathushtra's notion of "mind", and how the material and the spiritual are both necessary to fulfill the purpose of life.
Heritage of Humanity
Soroushian, Dr. Mehrborzin
Some of the great contributions of Zarathushtra to development of human thought and human civilization are outlined in this article written in connection with the UNESCO declared 3000 anniversary of Zoroastrianism.
How Do We Worship, How Do We Pray
McIntyre, Dina G.
The author describes different types of prayer in the Gathas, including the "asking" prayers and the "giving" prayers, and how they affect our lives and our world, and she closes with a blessing which reflects Zarathushtra's view that it is not enough to ask blessings for ourselves. We have to bless each other and our world.
Implication of Zarathushtra’s Vision of Freedom of Choice for Today’s Society
Daver, Adi
Zarathushtra's vision of Freedom of Choice for every mortal is not an untrammeled one. It is based on the Good Mind invariably striving for the Absolute Truth to give love and to serve humanity, as a means of not only renovating one's soul but also moving creation towards perfection. The significance of using the privilege of Freedom of Choice is discussed in this article.
Leadership, The Common Man & Zarathushtra
McIntyre, Dina G.
This article explores some interesting Zarathushtrian paradoxes on leadership and the common man, and Zarathushtra's surprising conclusions on what it is that generates power and rule.
Love and Peace in Zarathushtra’s Voice
Palsson, Henrick
An insightful perspective on Zarathushtra's vision for humanity is given. The question of what it means to be good in words, deeds and thoughts is explored, as well as the question of what can Zarathushtra offer to the humanity in the 3^rd millennium.
Metaphor in the Gathas, Part 1: The Natural Metaphors
McIntyre, Dina G.
This is Part 1 of a series of articles on Metaphor in the Gathas. Here, the author discusses the way in which Zarathushtra uses pastoral metaphors to convey his thoughts, and his solution for the defeat of evil. A discussion of fire in the later texts is included, and the author concludes by raising some interesting questions.
Metaphor in the Gathas, Part 2: The "Houses" of Paradise and Hell
McIntyre, Dina G.
In this piece, the author discusses Zarathushtra's use of "house" as a metaphor, and touches on his notions of heaven and hell.
Metaphor in the Gathas, Part 3: The Amesha Spenta as Allegories
McIntyre, Dina G.
Author analyzes Zarathushtra's introduction of the Amesha Spenta "Holy Immortals" in detail, and his enigmatic use of the singular and the plural in addressing Ahura Mazda "The Lord of Wisdom." Dina makes conclusions with discussion on his thoughts regarding the nature of divinity.
Nietzsche’s Understanding of Zarathushtra’s Philosophy
Pearlstein, Arthur
Analysis of Nietzsche's understanding of Zarathushtra's thought that provides valuable insight into the philosphical basis of Zarathushtra's message is given in this article
Of Means and Ends
McIntyre, Dina G.
In this thought provoking article, the author examines evidence from the text of the oldest religious philosophy and comes up with very deep and significant observation on the purpose for life and the relationship between individuals and the human wholeness.
On the Fire of Aramaiti
Bagli, Ervad Dr. Jehan
In the hustle of the day to day activity, there is often little time for human to pause and think of the rationale of existence. Asho Zarathushtra preached the importance of Manah Mind- through his thought provoking Message, some 3700 years ago. Today, in the wake of material bliss, humanity is still struggling to fully comprehend how best to attain the Spenta Aramaiti - Serenity or Right-mindedness - to optimally utilize that precious gift Vohu Manah - of the Wise Lord, and bring forth His kingdom in this material actuality.
One Design
McIntyre, Dina G.
In this piece, the author explores Zarathushtra's teaching that the material and the spiritual form a part of one beautiful design, and discusses their harmonious interaction.
Perspective on Yasna 46.11 of Zarathushtra’s Gathas
McIntyre, Dina G.
An insightful perspective on one of the Yasnas discussing rulers, priests bent of misleading and how to overcome deceit by delivering it into the hands of truth.
Renewal
McIntyre, Dina G.
In this thought provoking article, the author articulates the concept of renewal from the Gathic perspective with its foundation in individuals renewing themselves resulting in renewal for humanity. The relationship between the path to renewal and renewal itself is examined.
Psychology of the Gathas A Psycho-historical view of teachings of Zarathushtra
Anoshiravani, Dr. Ardeshir
In this brief article, the author attempts to analyze the methodology of Gathas in light of modern theories of learning. Also, some psycho historical assumptions pertaining to the life and times of Asho Zarathushtra is discussed.
Reflections on Y48.8, Reward, Power, Rule (and Terrorism!)
McIntyre, Dina G.
This piece describes Zarathushtra's understanding of reward, power and rule -- all very different from the conventional wisdom on these subjects. It draws some interesting parallels between man and the Divine. It shows us Zarathushtra's understanding of religion. And it demonstrates that good thoughts, good words and good deeds are not the simplistic slogan they are so often thought to be.
Response to Terrorism: A Zarathushtrian Perspective
McIntyre, Dina G.
The author discusses some thoughts on terrorism and how we might respond to it, within the framework of Zarathushtra's teachings.
Spenta Mainyu
Jafarey, Dr. Ali Akbar
Spenta Mainyu is an important concept to Zoroastrian though, and needs to be understood in the proper context, void of historical misconceptions. This insightful article presents a well rounded discussion on Spenta Mainyu and its relation to progressive mentality.
Spenta Mainyu in the Gâthâs
Dhalla, Dastur Maneckji
This brief article outlines the Gathic perspective on Spenta Mainyu and its relation to Ahura Mazda. The distinction must be made since later Zarathushti literature mistakenly made the two identical.
Studying the Gathas as a Pratical Guide to a Blissful Existence
Irani, Dinshah
A basic and illustrative analysis of how the fundamental concepts embedded in the Gathas of Zarathushtra can enable an individual live a blissful and fulfilling life is given.
The Core and the Externals
McIntyre, Dina G.
The evolution of the textual sources of the Zarathushtrian religion is examined and the deviations from the original message of the faith is given perspective.
The Enlightenment Message of Zarathushtra
Kerr, Dr. Sam
Zarathushtra generated an extraordinary transformation in the history of human thought by promulgating a vision more than 3500 years ago. He emphasized that religion is not a matter of membership of an institute but a matter of personal conscience. This article tries to illustrate the parallels between Zarathushtra's insight and ‘The Enlightenment’ movement in Europe of, as late as, the 18th century.
The Gathas, Lessons to Grow Through
Farsi, Behrouz
This article is based on author's personal life experiences, and provides valuable insights on how Gathic principles can enable individuals to lead more effective, loving, caring and responsible lives.
The Meaning of "Ârmaiti"
Jafarey, Dr. Ali Akbar
The concept of Aramaity (Armity), encompassing human qualities such as caring, charity, serenity is an essential component of Zarathushtra's world-view. This article examines the significance of this concept.
The Proposal of Zarathushtra - Beyond Religion and Philosophy
Abreu, Jose Luis
This thought provoking article explores the scope of Zarathushtra's message for humanity beyond simple theological and philosophical bounds and into other domains that influences human behavior.
The Venezuelan Experience with the Zarathushtrian Teachings
Abreu, Jose Luis
The foundation for the teaching of the religion of Zarathushtra is built of respect for the freedom of choice for all. Zarathushtrian values should never be imposed on a person. One can only give guidance, the values are cultivated internally by the individual.
Towards Right-Mindedness – Progressively
Rustomji, Magdalena
For anyone trying to adapt to a new environment, one can discover in the Gathas, Zarathushtra's Message which helps them appreciate the effective and life confirming role they can play in making their lives more productive and fulfilling.
Forward to "The Divine Songs of Zarathushtra"
Tagore, Nobel Prize Laurate Rabindranath
Nobel Prize winner, visionary poet and author, Rabindranath Tagore in his article at the beginning of Dinshah Irani's "The Divine Songs of Zarathushtra" writes another masterpiece introducing the works of ancient Persian prophet.
The Ethical Thought Proposed by Zarathushtra
Abreu, Dr. Jose Luis
The importance of ethical values in business and management is highlighted. The original formulation of ethical norms and value system by Zarathushtra and its significance in the context of today’s human experience and in promoting an ideal society is discussed.
The Freedom to Choose
Soroushian, Dr. Mehrborzin
Given the great emphasize placed by the Zarathusthra's religious tradition on individual's moral duty to choose their path in life, comes the responsibility to make the righteous choice at every step of the way. The challenges surrounding this issue and the considerations to be kept in mind are discussed in this article.

The Future as a Zarathushtrian Invention
Pearlstein,Arthur
Zarathushtra’s rejection of the static world-view and his introduction of the idea that our future can be made better than our present has had such powerful consequences through the ages that they are impossible to calculate. The crucial way in which Zarathushtra changed the history of ideas was by inventing the concept of ‘future’ as we know it today.
The Gathas and Contemporary Moral Philosophy
Vania, Dr. Natalie H.
An in-depth analysis of the Gathic perspective on morality requires an understanding of the concepts of contemporary moral philosophy. In this paper, Dr. Natalie Vania conducts a very informative discussion and presents constructive positions on Zarathushtrian episteme necessary for moral choice, normative standing of the Gathic moral choice, and the nature of moral failing, utilitarian and deontological strains in the Gathas, and sociological comment on the study of moral philosophy.
The Good Religion, Indo-Iranian Zarathushtis, and Westernization
Jafarey, Dr. Ali Akbar
Issues faced by the Zoroastrian immigrants in the West in trying to instill their traditional value systems. Suggestions based on the principles in the Gathas to address these issues vis-à-vis the youth exposed to the host countries' culture.
The Love of Truth in Ancient Iran
Insler, Professor Stanley
Author discusses the importance of truth in relation to man and God and its central position. Historical perspectives for this concept is given based on documented.
The Notion of Love in the Gathas
McIntyre, Dina G.
In this thought stimulating article the concept of love consistent with the message of the Gathas and based on the fundamentals of the philosophy of Zarathushtra is examined. The author clearly shows the connection between the notion of love as understood by the humans and the other Gathas concepts.

The Philosophical Concept of "Consciousness" in Zarathushtra’s Teachings
Kerr,Sam
The author tries to transmit, step by step, the prophet's philosophical notions in the matters of the Human Mind and its Conscious senses. Zarathushtra's amazing vision of a slow but Progressive Evolution through an endless change in the thought processes, inducing a better and better way of life (focusing inward within each self, i e Self-Consciousness and outward on society, i.e. Communal Consciousness) is actuated under the constant supervision of a Perfectly Good Influence. This most ancient thought has, in modern times, been acclaimed by humanists and philosophers alike, as a new paradigm - a concept of Universal Consciousness, a form of shared humanity, if you will, in the push towards Globalisation and Universality.
The Religion of Action
Taraporwala, Dr. Iraj
Highlighting the relation of humanity with creation according to Zarathushtra's Vision, Dr. Taraporewala captures the demand on humans in terms of the conduct of a life of filled with action, and the consequence of their deeds.
The Talisman
McIntyre, Dina G.
This article explores the reasons why the Ahuna Vairya prayer has held such a special place in the long history of the Zarathushti religion, as a means for defeating evil and transcending our mortality.

The Web of Immanence
McIntyre, Dina G.
In this article the author gives a thought provoking overview of the approaches that Zarathushtra's thought offers for dealing with issues that can come up in a person's life, and concludes by considering the implications of the immanence of the divine in all things.
The Vision of Zarathushtra
Irani, Professor Kaikhosrov Dinshah
In this article, the author explores the purpose of life and existence from the perspective of the bigger picture based on the philosophical formulation of the World's oldest standing religion.
Three Prayers and the Name of God
McIntyre, Dina G.
In this article Dina takes her reader into the explanatory world the first three prayers every Zarathushti learns, a thought provoking article.
Twin Mainyus - The Gathic Doctrine
Bagli, Ervad Dr. Jehan
The ethical duality of Good and Evil confronts all the religious traditions. Prophet Zarathushtra was historically the first spiritual leader to deal with this aspect in a uniquely reflective manner. This is elaborated in his words in Yasna-30 of the Ahunavaiti Gatha.
Universal Elements Forming the Fundamentals of the Religion of Zarathushtra
Homji, Dasturji Nowrooz D. Minocher
The universality of the Religion tradition introduced by Zarathushtra and the unique and humanistic aspects of the same are discussed in this easy to comprehend speech delivered in 1984.
Vohu Manah, The Precious Gift of Mazda
Bagli, Ervard Dr. Jehan
Vohu Mano, the good mind capable of comprehending Asha is a concept very central to the Zarathushtrian theology. The relationship between the mind, reasoning ability, comprehension, and consciousness, was not well understood by science until millennia later than the time Zarathushtra. In this article, the in-depth appreciation of these concepts from Zarathushtrian perspective is discussed.
Vohuman
Jafarey, Dr. Ali Akbar
This article is a brief on Vohumanah -- Vohuman -- the name chosen for this site and its meaning. Vohumanah, the good mind is the source of all that is good and wise. It is divine faculty that, joined by other principles of life, makes one Godlike because Mazda, Super-Intellect, works only with Vohumanah.
What Should Zarathushtrian Education Be?
Irani, Emeritus Professor Kaikhosrov Dinshah
Regardless of the context of the educational situation, the religious teaching of Prophet Zarathushtra must be the central focus. The religious vision we find in the Gathas must be presented with a minimum of interpretative gloss and no novel doctrinal creations such as those generated by deviant contemporary groups.
Zarathushtra
Insler, Emeritus Professor Dr. Stanley
This insightful article draws parallels between the moral challenges faced by humanity in the 21st century and those faced by Zarathushtra, and how he went about addressing them. The discussion provides great insight into the teachings of Zarathushtra.
Zarathushtra’s Conception of Good and Evil as Expounded in the Gathas
Mehta, Dr. Cyrus
A lucid and insightful discussion on the context for comprehension of Good and Evil. A logical and independent thinking person can follow the recommended approach to arrive at optimal ethical decisions in life.
Zarathushtra’s Paradise, In this World and the Next
McIntyre, Dina G.
In this thought provoking article, the author discusses the concept of paradise based on the evidence found in the Gathas of Zarathushtra. The human, God relationship and the ideal of universal brotherhood is also discussed.
Zarathushtra’s Vision
Insler, Professor Stanley
Few men have had such a profound impact on human thinking as Zarathushtra did. Author professor Insler in this article discusses what was Zarathushtra's vision in his Gathas.
Zarathushtra’s Vision: The Individual Making The Difference
Bagli, Ervard Dr. Jehan
The philosophy of Zarathushtra in regards to the uplift and salvation of humanity stresses the important role the individuals must assume in ushering in "Khashtra Vairyu", the holy dominion. This emphasize is in sharp contrast to to the approach based on delegating that essential role to an omnipotent and supernatural God, while the humans are reduced to taking passive and submissive roles based on the conventional wisdom of Abrahamic faiths. In this article the productive and crucial role that individuals are expected to play in moving humanity towards perfection is discussed.
Zarathustra’s Reflections on His Mission, Yasna 46
Irani, Dinshah
In relating the challenges he faced in bringing about the triumph of good over evil, Zarathushtra describes the turmoil and triumphs that righteous humans often experience in their lives as they try to do right. This insightful article addresses issues relating to best existence lived in promoting humanity towards perfection.
Zarathushtra's vital Message
Antia,Mazda K.
In this insightful article, the interconnectedness of humans' actions from a Zarathushtrian perspective is discussed. Doing what is good or "best" in each situation is often different than doing what is advantageous or convenient to an individual. A butterfly flaps its wings in one part of the world and sets into motion events causing a hurricane far away: Zarathushtra's message can be the wing moving people's minds - changing the life they lead from focusing on what's best for one alone, towards a life improving the world for all people and beings.
Zarathushtrianism, Good Mind, Freedom of Choice
Abreu, Jose Luis
This paper examines the question of racial or cultural requirements for follower ship of Zarathushtrian. Author presents his conclusion using well established cases and data.
Zoroastrianism -- A vanishing Faith?
Vajifdar,Farrokh
In today's world every ancient religion, as well as Zoroastrianism, faces this question. Zoroastrianism as a faith has never vanished; its great ideas lived on with continued influencing major philosophical and social developments in modern world.
Zoroastrianism: A Vision of the Future
Dinshaw, Farishta Murzban
Some of basic and essential concepts of Zoroastrianism as it relates to individuals making morally responsible decisions to prompt goodness is discussed in this insightful article.
Zoroastrianism, Tajiks, and UNESCO
Mehr, Emeritus Professor Dr. Farhang
An insightful and brief description of the unique and distinguishing features of Zarathushtra's thought are presented in this article.