Which of the following statements about Zoroastrianism is NOT true?
A. It teaches that Ahura Mazda created humans.
B. It teaches that actions are guided by predestination, as there is no free will.
C. It teaches that Ahura Mazda and Ahriman fought and Ahriman lost.
The correct answer and explanation is:
The correct answer is B. It teaches that actions are guided by predestination, as there is no free will.
Zoroastrianism does not teach that actions are guided by predestination or that there is no free will. Instead, it emphasizes that individuals have the freedom to choose their actions, and that their choices have moral consequences. The central belief in Zoroastrianism is that people can choose to align themselves with the divine force of Ahura Mazda (the supreme god), or they can fall into the destructive influence of Ahriman (the evil spirit).
Zoroastrianism teaches that humans are endowed with free will, and this free will is central to the belief in moral responsibility. According to the teachings of Zoroaster (the founder of Zoroastrianism), individuals are encouraged to think critically and act in ways that promote truth, goodness, and order, which are aligned with Ahura Mazda’s attributes. Free will is essential for humans to engage in the ongoing cosmic struggle between good and evil.
In contrast, Zoroastrianism does acknowledge the existence of forces that may influence human behavior. These forces, however, do not determine one’s fate. Rather, Zoroastrianism teaches that individuals are accountable for their actions, and their choices contribute to either the strengthening of the divine order or the weakening of it. This belief in free will is reflected in the Zoroastrian motto, “Good thoughts, good words, good deeds.”
Explanation of the other options:
- A. It teaches that Ahura Mazda created humans: This is true. In Zoroastrianism, Ahura Mazda is believed to be the creator of the world and humans.
- C. It teaches that Ahura Mazda and Ahriman fought and Ahriman lost: This is also true. Zoroastrian cosmology describes an ongoing struggle between Ahura Mazda, the god of goodness and light, and Ahriman, the evil spirit. According to Zoroastrianism, Ahura Mazda will ultimately triumph over Ahriman, resulting in the final defeat of evil.
In summary, the key concept of free will is vital to Zoroastrianism, making option B the incorrect statement.