First Monotheist?




I really enjoy studying history. Lately I’ve been studying different religions in ancient civilizations. I feel like India Jones although I’m sitting on my couch. Looking at online photos of ancient artifacts and sculptures. I found ancient religions have had a significant influence on current beliefs, practices, and cultures.

I find the study of religious movements in history is a fascinating and complex subject that can deepen our understanding of the human experience.

One of these early religious movements is Zoroastrianism. I learned of this moment while playing the historical video game called Civilization IV. It’s one of the earliest known Monotheistic religious movements.

It all started with Zoroaster, also known as Zarathustra, was an ancient Persian prophet who lived between the 7th and 6th centuries BCE. He is credited with founding Zoroastrianism, a religion that is considered to be one of the world’s oldest monotheistic religions. Zoroaster’s teachings had a profound impact on monotheism, and his ideas continue to influence religious and philosophical thought to this day.

Monotheism is the belief in the existence of only one God. Prior to the emergence of monotheistic religions, most societies believed in multiple gods or deities. Zoroaster’s teachings challenged this belief system by introducing the concept of a single, all-powerful God known as Ahura Mazda. According to Zoroastrianism, Ahura Mazda is the creator of the universe and the ultimate source of good.

Zoroaster’s teachings had a significant impact on other monotheistic religions that followed. One of the most notable examples is Judaism. Scholars believe that Zoroastrianism influenced the development of Jewish monotheism, which emerged several centuries after the founding of Zoroastrianism. The Jewish concept of one God is similar to Zoroaster’s teachings, with a focus on ethical conduct and the importance of leading a good life.

Zoroastrianism also had an impact on Christianity. Scholars believe that Zoroaster’s teachings influenced the development of Christian concepts such as the struggle between good and evil, the concept of a savior, and the idea of the resurrection. Additionally, some scholars believe that the Three Wise Men who brought gifts to the infant Jesus were Zoroastrian priests.

Zoroaster’s teachings also influenced Islamic theology. The Prophet Muhammad is believed to have been influenced by Zoroastrianism, and many of the concepts in Islamic theology, such as the belief in angels and the Day of Judgment, have parallels in Zoroastrianism.

In addition to influencing monotheistic religions, Zoroaster’s teachings had a significant impact on Persian culture and society. Zoroastrianism became the dominant religion in Persia, and many of its teachings were incorporated into Persian literature, art, and philosophy.

Zoroaster’s impact on monotheism cannot be overstated. His teachings introduced the concept of a single, all-powerful God, which challenged the traditional belief in multiple deities. Zoroaster’s ideas continue to influence religious and philosophical thought to this day, and his legacy can be seen in the development of Judaism, Christianity, and Islam. Zoroaster’s influence on monotheism is a testament to the enduring power of his ideas and teachings. Interestingly the original manuscripts from the book of Avesta containing much of Zoroaster’s teachings where destroyed when Alexander the Great conquered Persia.




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