Religious Research

Religious Research

An Examination of the Role of the Doctrine of Goodness in Zoroastrian Theology

Document Type : Research Paper

Authors
zahra gholami 1
ehsan ghodratollahi 2
1 MA, Religions and Mysticism, Department of Religions and Philosophy, Faculty of Literature and Foreign Languages, University of Kashan, Kashan, Iran
2 Assistant Professor, Department of Religions and Philosophy, Faculty of Literature and Foreign Languages, University of Kashan, Kashan, Iran
10.22034/jrr.2025.416298.2141
Abstract
Goodness is one of the most prominent religious and ethical teachings in all divine religions, including Zoroastrianism. Although this doctrine holds a high place in various religious traditions, it has been addressed in different dimensions and levels. This study, using a descriptive-analytical approach and based on sacred texts—the Avesta and Pahlavi literature—aims first to explain the central and prominent role of this doctrine in Zoroastrian theology, and then to explore the special status of goodness and its various forms in Zoroastrian sacred literature. The findings indicate that, unlike other world religions, the doctrine of goodness in Zoroastrianism is not merely a faith-related or ethical recommendation but is deeply connected to a wide range of fundamental religious beliefs. It plays a central role in the theology of this faith. In Zoroastrianism, Ahura Mazda is the essence and source of goodness, and His will is to establish the rule of goodness in the world. The role of His agents—such as Ashu Zoroaster, the Amesha Spentas, the Yazatas, the Ashavans, and the Frashokirdkarans—in the creation of this ideal world is grounded in this doctrine and is explained accordingly..
Keywords
Zoroastrian theology
goodness
Amesha Spentas
Ashu Zoroaster
Frashokereti
Sushyant
Subjects
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