Online Lecture: Zoroastrianism

This information is haunting me, more than a month after hearing the lecture. This religion predated Christianity by centuries, for example. Yet, the similarities are overwhelming -- the story of creation, a good God, a figure of evil like the devil, and man's agency to choose between good and evil... It will make you think!!

Dr. Brian Carwana lectured about this topic of “fire and light.” He explained how the religion as best we know fit on the timeline of around 1000-1500 BC, and there even followers of this religion today. It was enlightening and educational.

I really enjoyed this program and learned a great deal from it. Dr. Brian Carwana presented Zoroastrianism in a way that was clear, engaging, and easy to follow. The timeline was especially helpful in placing the religion in historical context and understanding how it fits alongside other major faith traditions. I was particularly interested in the discussion about Zoroastrianism’s influence on Judaism and Christianity, including its possible relationship to the Nativity story of Jesus. Even though Zoroastrianism has relatively few followers today, the program made its lasting influence on the world feel very real. Dr. Carwana was an excellent presenter, and I would happily take another program with him.

Zoroastrianism presentation by Dr. Brian Carwana 2025 Summary by Lisa Seid Wow, I had an eye opening , and numerous ah ha moments while listening to Dr. Carwana’s presentation. It connected the dots between many of the western and European world religions for me; including Judaism, Christianity and Islam. I never heard of Zoroastrianism before yesterday’s presentation. His agenda for this presentation was three fold: Review the historical knowledge about Zoroaster a “religious innovator” and his influence upon religious history. Connect the Vedic practices in India to Zoroastrianism Discuss the beliefs and practices of Zoroastrianism Pre-Zoroaster religions had the following characteristics, such as polytheism, creation story, fire sacrifices, inherited male priesthood. After Zoroaster had a vision and spoke with King Vishtaspa, from Persia, now Iran, the new faith blossomed and became the dominant practice. His religious insights & innovations include: Single personified, immortal G-d, one creator G-d (Ahura Mazada) Creates good spirits (Minya) Single Personified Evil (Ahriman), creates demons Struggle between light and dark; truths and lies; humans are part of the struggle. Humans have free agency, free choice and discern between good and evil through good thoughts, good words and good deeds. Creation of linear time versus cyclical Afterlife is available to everyone, “democratized”, not just the ruler or pharos of their time. “Zoroastrianism is a turning point, an inflection point in the history of religiosity.” The power of one person’s ideas can change history.

I love Brian's lectures. I learn so much and this lecture was no exception. Thank you Road Scholar for bringing him and thank you Brian for sharing your knowledge. I did not know about Zoroastriansim previously. The lecture was very thorough and well-thought-out. It included the history and how it influenced other religions as well as basic beliefs and practices.

Amazingly informative and transformational. This course changed my whole view of the Biblical Old Testament that has started me on a new and exciting course of study. Thank you!

An overview of poignant information regarding Zoroastrianism and its' tenants and practices.