Zoroastrianism is one of the world’s oldest monotheistic religions, founded by the prophet Zoroaster (or Zarathustra) in ancient Persia around the 6th century BCE. Key aspects of Zoroastrianism include:

1. Belief in Ahura Mazda: The worship of one supreme deity, Ahura Mazda, who represents truth, light, and goodness.
2. Dualistic Cosmology: Zoroastrianism posits a cosmic struggle between forces of good (represented by Ahura Mazda) and evil (Angra Mainyu or Ahriman).
3. Ethical Dualism: Emphasis on ethical living, with followers striving to choose good thoughts, words, and deeds to combat evil.
4. Fire Worship: Fire is a symbol of purity and divinity in Zoroastrian rituals.
5. Concept of Judgment: Belief in a final judgment where individuals’ actions are weighed, leading to either reward or punishment in the afterlife.

Zoroastrianism has had a significant impact on the development of other major religions and continues to be practiced by a small but dedicated community worldwide.