According to the Bhavishya Purana (14 and 39.43.45), Zoroaster belonged to the Shaka (Scythian) community. The Shakas were strong warriors who moved to various regions, including Bharat and Persia (now Iran), where they gained importance. Besides their strength, they were also known for valuing knowledge and wisdom.

The Shakas and King Vikramaditya

The Shakas ruled parts of Bharat for a long time until they were defeated by King Vikramaditya of Ujjayini. After their defeat, their region was called Shakadweep. The learned people from the Shaka community who performed rituals and ceremonies were known as Magas.

Zoroaster’s Origin in the Shaka Community

Zoroaster was born into the Shaka community. He was the son of Rishi Rijishva's daughter and belonged to the Maga Brahmins, who were teachers and performed religious ceremonies. Zoroaster later became a great spiritual leader and founded Zoroastrianism, which became widely followed in Persia.

Zoroaster’s teachings were different from the Vedic religion, which was common in Bharat at that time. He introduced a new script, written from right to left, a notable change from the traditional Vedic texts. This difference marked his followers' break from Vedic practices.

Reversing the Vedic Religion

Zoroaster’s followers, known as Parsis, practiced their religion in a way that was the opposite of the Vedic tradition. While the Vedic religion worshiped gods called Devas, Zoroaster’s followers worshiped Asuras, who were considered demons in the Vedic texts. They even sang the Vedas backward, symbolizing their rejection of Vedic ways.

The Magas, who followed Zoroaster, created their own versions of the Vedas, known as Vid, Visparad, Vidad, and Angiras, completely separating themselves from Vedic beliefs.

The Spread of Zoroastrianism

Zoroaster’s religion, Zoroastrianism, became very important in Persia. His followers, presently known as the Parsis, continued to follow his teachings and distanced themselves from the Vedic beliefs of Bharat.

Knowledge Bank

What is Kalpa?

Kalpa is the lifespan of the universe. One kalpa is 4.32 billion years.

Valmikism

Valmikism, or Balmikism, is a Hindu sect that honors the sage Valmiki, also called Bala Shah or Lal Beg, as their ancestor and patron saint. Followers believe Valmiki was an incarnation of God and regard his works, the Ramayana and the Yoga Vasistha, as sacred texts. Valmiki is often shown wearing red clothing, earning him the name Lal Bhekh or Lal Beg.