HOLY SPIRIT- AN AVESTA-NEW TESTAMENT COMPARISON, BY SARAH

Holy Spirit
There are many teachings about the Holy Spirit or Spenta Mainyu in the Avesta. Chapter 47 is just one example;

47.1: He who is led by the Holy Spirit and whose thoughts, words and deeds are good with truth, shall be granted self realisation and eternity by Mazda Ahura. 2: He who led by the Holy Spirit lives the best life. His words shall be full of love and wisdom, and his works shall be guided by his Strength of Character through faith. Inspired by the thought that Mazda is the Father of Universal Truth. 3:
You are the Protector of the Holy Spirit. You have created this joy-bringing earth. When people go towards Insightful Conscience and consult with it, you will grant them peace, O Mazda; and Perseverance will be the protector. 4: Liars, who turn away from your Holy Spirit, feel ever-frustrated. But not so with the truthful. Whether one is rich or poor he is to show love for the righteous but ill to the Liar. 5: You have promised the best to the righteous through the Holy Spirit. However, the false ones will remain far from your love, since their evil actions proceed from their evil minds, which darken their soul.


Amesha Spentas and Gifts of the Holy Spirit
Zarathustra consistently prays for guidance and to receive ‘attributes’ from Mazda; the Amesha Spentas, also called Gifts of the Holy Spirit, which are: Recognition of Universal Truth, Perseverance, Strength of Character, Insightful Conscience, Inspiration and Wholeness.

29.4: Aid us, O Mazda, and your Spiritual Aspects and Gifts of the Spirit, so that we may attain pure mind and spiritual strength through purity and truth; sincere love and humility so that by developing these attributes we may overcome untruth.

43.2 Through Universal Truth, the Eternal Law of Truth and Purity, O my Lord, grant us wisdom and knowledge; gifts of The Holy Spirit, so that we may enjoy happiness throughout our lives.

51.7: You who created the earth, water and the plants, O Mazda, grant me the gifts of the Holy Spirit, as well as strength and perseverance through Insightful Conscience as revealed in your teachings.







2Pe 1:21 No prophecy ever came from what a person wanted to say, but people led by the Holy Spirit spoke words from God.

Ro 8:14 For all who are led by the Spirit of God are children of God

Luke11.13 how much more will the heavenly Father give the Holy Spirit to those who ask him!"

Luke12.12 for the Holy Spirit will teach you at that very hour what you ought to say."

John 14:26 But the Advocate, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in my name, will teach you everything, and remind you of all that I have said to you.

Rom9:1 I am speaking the truth in Christ—I am not lying; my conscience confirms it by the Holy Spirit










Gifts of the Holy Spirit

1Co12.4-14 Word of Wisdom, Word of Knowledge, Healings, Working of miracles, Prophecy, Discernment of spirits, Speaking in tongues(1), Interpretation of tongues

(1) In Zoroastrianism, the “word” is believed to have great power, and speaking holy words is considered a holy gift.

Mat 19: 26 With man (salvation) is impossible, but with God all things are possible.

Both Christians and Zoroastrians believe that humans cannot evolve by themselves; they need Gifts of the Holy Spirit.

Ep 2:8 For by grace you have been saved through faith, and this is not your own doing; it is the gift of God



Bearing Fruit

43.4: Then I will know you as strong and holy, O Mazda, when the Liar and the Righteous reap their fruit.

43 5: ….O Mazda. In the beginning you ordained that deeds and words shall bear fruit, evil comes to evil and good blessings to good. Thus it will continue till the end of creation.




All prayers are answered;

28.10: …. I believe that all prayers offered devotedly to you by sincere persons with high and noble objectives will be answered by you.




Fighting evil with spiritual weapons

31.18 Don’t listen to the words of the false and the wicked ones, because they will lead the family, community and nation to ruin and destruction. It is our duty to resist such persons and repel them with spiritual weapons of purity and righteousness.

33.2: Those who fight evil (The Liar) by thought, word, deeds and uses his hands to convert the misled to the good, do the will of Ahura Mazda.












Slaves to sin;

53. 9: The evil-believers look down on the righteous ones, yet are slaves of desire/sin and struggle with their inner-selves.








Mat 3:8 Bear fruit worthy of repentance.

Lu 8:15 But as for that in the good soil, these are the ones who, when they hear the word, hold it fast in an honest and good heart, and bear fruit with patient endurance.

Mat 7:17 every good tree bears good fruit, but the bad tree bears bad fruit.





Mark 11.24: So I tell you whatever you ask for in prayer, believe that you have received it and it will be yours.
Mt 7:7 Ask and it will be given to you; seek and you will find; knock and the door will be opened to you.



2Cor 6 by purity, knowledge, patience, kindness, holiness of spirit, genuine love, truthful speech, and the power of God; with the weapons of righteousness for the right hand and for the left
2Cor3-4 For though we live in the world, we do not wage war the way the world does. The weapons we fight with are not weapons of the world.
1Cor 10. 3 Indeed, we live as human beings, but we do not wage war according to human standards; for the weapons of our warfare are not merely human, but they have divine power to destroy strongholds. We destroy arguments and every proud obstacle raised up against the knowledge of God, and we take every thought captive to obey Christ.




John 8:34 Jesus answered them, "Very truly, I tell you, everyone who commits sin is a slave to sin.
Rom 6:14 For sin shall not be your master, because you are not under law but under Grace.
Rom 8:9 You are not controlled by sinful nature but by the Spirit


Fire as a Purifier and Tester

51.9 Both parties, O Mazda, will be put to the Fiery Test. This alchemical process will reveal the truth in the souls of these people, indicating their Award, which will be frustration will be the false ones, and blessings to the true.

47.6 Lord of Life and Wisdom, through the Holy Spirit and your blazing Fire, you will separate the righteous and wicked. Those who hear will heed.

46:7 Who have you appointed to protect me from the Liar’s violence, O Mazda? Your Fire and Insightful Conscience will protect me and Universal Law will be fulfilled.



















The Liar
In Zoroastrianism Dualism, ‘The Liar’ is the personification of Falsehood and Evil, the same meaning as Devil/Satan/Antichrist.

31.15 I ask you, Lord, what is the painful pang of the consequences felt by … those who advance the cause of The Liar?
43.4 Then I will know you as strong and holy, O Mazda, when the Liar and the Righteous reap their fruit
32. 2 Those who fight The Liar by thought, word, deeds and uses his hands to convert the misled to the good, do the will of Ahura Mazda
46.6 He who supports the Liar, will fall into the Lie, and he who supports the righteous is himself righteous.
44.8 Firstly, I replied; I am Zarathushtra; a true foe of the Liar, shunning all evil.
44.13 I ask you humbly, O Ahura, tell me truly. How should we completely drive the Liar away from us?
1Cor 3:13 Fire will test the quality of each man’s work

Fire as a purifying archetype is seen in the post exilic OT prophet Daniel’s story of the 3 ‘good’ men thrown into the fire. They did not burn because they were ‘good’, and only ‘bad’ burns.

Daniel 3:25 He replied, "But I see four men unbound, walking in the middle of the fire, and they are not hurt; and the fourth has the appearance of a god.
Isa 63:2: When you walk through fire you will not be burned

Luke 12:49 "I came to bring fire to the earth, and how I wish it were already kindled!
Mt 3:10 Even now the axe is lying at the root of the trees; every tree therefore that does not bear good fruit is cut down and thrown into the fire.
Matt 3.11; (John the Baptist) will baptize you with the Holy Spirit and fire.
Matt 3.12 he will clear his threshing floor and will gather his wheat into the granary; but the chaff he will burn with unquenchable fire."
Mark 9.49 “For everyone will be salted with fire.” (Salt is “Characterised as good and useful” Torries Topical and/or “Purifier” Jesus Seminar Five Gospels suggesting fire as good purifier)





The Liar

1John 2:22 Who is the liar but the one who denies that Jesus is the Christ? This is the Antichrist, the one who denies the Father and the Son.

Here Jesus refers to the Jewish God “Yahweh” as the Liar:

John 8:44You are from your father the devil, and you choose to do your father's desires. He was a murderer from the beginning and does not stand in the truth, because there is no truth in him. When he lies, he speaks according to his own nature, for he is a liar and the father of lies.




The Kingdom of God
Zoroastrians believe that the Kingdom of God will merge with Humanity/Earth, when enough people seek Universal Truth. Jesus's teachings suggest the same idea;

31.6 The wise man who propagates the true religion ... will enjoy God’s Kingdom, which increases through pure mind.

51.6 He who is ‘better than good’ is virtuous and progresses the advancement of the Kingdom of God.

43.8 I (Zarathustra) will support all that is Righteous to the utmost of my power, that I may attain the future of your Kingdom, as I praise you, O Mazda.

33.13 Lord, reveal your precious gifts to me which flow from your Kingdom, O Ahura, and through The Holy Spirit

31.6 The wise man who propagates the true religion and makes the people aware of my holy word, which leads them to perfection and immortality, will enjoy the highest bliss. He will enjoy God’s Kingdom, which increases through pure mind

44.9 The man of Truth wishes for your Kingdom, where Universal Truth and Good Thought dwell.

48 8 We yearn for virtue, Mazda, and more so your Kingdom, Ahura.



Separating the good from the bad
Both the NT and Avesta teach that the good will be separated from the bad, the latter being sent to the fire (see “Hell Fire” for more detail)

51.9-10: Both parties, O Mazda, will be put to the Fiery Test ….. Those who seek to lead the world astray, Mazda, are children of the Lie's creation, ill-willed thus towards all that live.

47.6: Lord of Life and Wisdom, through the Holy Spirit and your blazing Fire, you will separate the righteous and wicked









Matt 6:10 Your kingdom come. Your will be done, on earth as it is in heaven.

Luke 17:21 the kingdom of God is among you
Matt 6:33 But strive first for the kingdom of God and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well.

Luke 10:9 The kingdom of God has come near.

Matt 12:28 But if it is by the Spirit of God that I cast out demons, then the kingdom of God has come to you.

Mat 13:31 The kingdom of heaven is like a mustard seed that someone took and sowed in his field; it is the smallest of all the seeds, but when it has grown it is the greatest of shrubs and becomes a tree, so that the birds of the air come and make nests in its branches.

Matt 13:43 Then the righteous will shine like the sun in the kingdom of their Father.

John 3:5 "Very truly, I tell you, no one can enter the kingdom of God without being born of water and Spirit.

Acts 14:22 "It is through many persecutions that we must enter the kingdom of God."










Mat 13:38,40 the field is the world, and the good seed are the children of the kingdom; the weeds are the children of the evil one … the weeds are collected and burned up with fire

Mat 13:49 So it will be at the end of the age. The angels will come out and separate the evil from the righteous and throw them into the furnace of fire








Revealing Light

34.4:…. The light which guides and helps the followers of truth clearly. It is the same shining flame, O Lord of Wisdom, which reveals the hidden evil in the hearts of infidels at a glance.















Slaves to sin

53.9 The evil-believers look down on the righteous ones, yet are slaves of desire/sin and struggle with their inner-selves.



Blessed are the Meek

53.9 O, Mazda, it is through your Kingdom that you shall strengthen the righteous meek and help them and bestow upon them the best reward.

34.5: … I wish to be one with You through truth and pure mind, helping the needy and those poor in spirit, and protecting the meek and lowly of heart (or “meek devotees”).



Zarathustra/Fire the son of God?

29.10 The Holy Spirit, grant mental power, cleverness and full wisdom to Zarathustra, so that the may lead the world to peace and rest. O, Mazda, we all recognize him as your noblest son and best of creation, and accept him as our best leader.

0.2. To Fire, the Son of Ahura Mazda








Mat 10:20 Mr 4:22 Lu 8:17 For nothing is hidden that will not be disclosed, nor is anything secret that will not become known and come to light.

Lu 12.3 Therefore whatever you have said in the dark will be heard in the light, and what you have whispered behind closed doors will be proclaimed from the housetops.

1Co 4:5 Therefore do not pronounce judgment before the time, before the Lord comes, who will bring to light the things now hidden in darkness and will disclose the purposes of the heart.







John 8:34 Jesus replied, "I tell you the truth, everyone who sins is a slave to sin.






Mat 5.5 Blessed are the meek, For they shall inherit the earth.

Mt 5:3 Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.






Lk 1:35 therefore the child to be born will be holy; he will be called Son of God.













God as "Father"

45.11 Those who oppose the Daevas and their followers, and those who respect the name of our Lord and pay reverence to his wise Teachers, the true helpers of the religion, Mazda Ahura becomes to them a friend, a brother or, rather, a Father.

31. 8 When I realized you in my mind as the First and the Last of Creation, my inner sight discovered that you are the Father of The Holy Spirit, the creator of Universal Truth and therefore judge of actions in life.

47.2 Mazda is the Father of Universal Truth.

45.4 ....Through Universal Truth, I have come to understand that Mazda, its Creator, is the Father of active Good Thought: but his daughter is good works.

44.3 I ask you humbly, O Ahura, tell me truly. Who is the Creator and First Father of the Truth?

Spiritual strength over physical strength

29.9-10 Then, the Soul of the Earth lamented. Should I accept the support of a feeble man and listen to his words? I desired the help of a strong and mighty king. When will such a person arise and bring strong-handed succour to me? O, Ahura Mazda and Universal Truth, bestow upon them (Zarathustra and his followers) spiritual strength and power. The Holy Spirit, grant mental power, cleverness and full wisdom to Zarathustra, so that the may lead the world to peace and rest.



Big Sin starts small

30.6: The followers of Daeva (devils) chose the wrong path, because they were in doubt and were deceived. They followed anger, which is the cause of all evil deeds

53.7: Cast off all temptation wherein lies the root of evil.







Mt 6:9 "Pray then in this way: Our Father in heaven, hallowed be your name.

Mat 32:9 And call no one your father on earth, for you have one Father—the one in heaven

John 5:18 For this reason the Jews were seeking all the more to kill him, because he was not only breaking the sabbath, but was also calling God his own Father, thereby making himself equal to God.











Mat 19:26 With man (salvation) is impossible, but with God all things are possible
1Cor 1:25 God's weakness is stronger than human strength.
1Cor 1:27 God chose what is weak in the world to shame the strong
Ep 6:10 Finally, be strong in the Lord and in the strength of his power.
1Cor 4:10 We are weak, but you are strong.
2Cor 13:4 For we are weak in (Christ), but in dealing with you we will live with him by the power of God.








Mat 5.21 I'm telling you that anyone who is so much as angry with a brother or sister is guilty of murder.
Mat 5:28 But I say to you that everyone who looks at a woman with lust has already committed adultery with her in his heart.
Ja 1:12 Blessed is anyone who endures temptation. Such a one has stood the test …



God is good to the bad and the good
43.4 I realised you to be the seed of holiness, O Mazda, since yours are those arms with which you give protection and by which you give blessings both to the good and to the bad.

Salvation by Grace
Although “Salvation by works” is emphasised, here is a verse that suggests Grace has a role;

33.11 O, Almighty Mazda, give me divine wisdom, righteousness, good thoughts and moral courage, hear me and forgive me, irrespective of whether I am worthy or not.

50 1: When will my soul be free and through whose Grace?

Salvation by Works
The Zoroastrian creed is Good Deeds, Good thoughts and Good Words

49.4 Those whose bad deeds prevail, rather good deeds, will end up in the abode of the the Daevas and the Liar.

46.15 Through good deeds you shall reach Ahura’s Universal Truth.



Influencing others
31.19 May they listen to the person who is capable of spreading the truth with eloquence of speech, through your radiant fire, O Lord

34.4:We yearn for your mighty eternal light which is shining through truth, O Lord of Life. The light which guides and helps the followers of truth clearly.

34.10 Being aware that love and faith towards God are actual sources of truth, the wise will teach those who have gone astray how to train their minds with good thoughts, perform good deeds and love others.

43.6: Faith will brighten the hearts of free men and women with the light of love, guiding them towards truth








Mat 5:45 … for he makes his sun rise on the evil and on the good and send rain on the righteous and the unrighteous.






Ep 2:8 For by grace you have been saved through faith, and this is not your own doing; it is the gift of God





2Cor 8:7 Now as you excel in everything—in faith, in speech, in knowledge, in utmost eagerness, and in our love for you so we want you to excel also in this generous undertaking.

Mat 5: 16 let your light shine before men that they may see your good deeds and praise your Father in Heaven.

Mat 16:27 (God) will reward each person according to what he has done.

Luke 24:19 (Jesus) was a prophet, powerful in word and deed before God and all the people.









Mt 5:16 In the same way, let your light shine before others, so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father in heaven.
















False Teachers

51.14 False teachers never show regard to Divine Laws and are destroyers of world harmony. Their false teachings lead to the destruction of the world, but their evil deeds will ultimately catch up with them and they will end up in the House of the Lie.
32 11 False teachers regard the false ones as great persons, because of their dignity and worldly grandeur. They hold back respectable men and women from attaining their wishes and enjoying God's gifts. They distract the minds of righteous and truthful people and destroy their lives
32.12 Owing to their evil thoughts, they prefer ferocious wolves to righteous and pure persons and wish lordship for the followers of false.


The Good Shepherd and "wolves"

31.9 …You, God, have granted us the power to choose between the path of good or evil: the path followed by the Good Shepherd, the deliverer, or with him who never was one.

31.15 I ask you, Lord, what is the painful pang of the consequences felt by the astray soul as a result of its own actions, and those who advance the cause of The Liar? Also, what is the penalty for those who have no other fulfilment in life, except separating the faithful people from their True Shepherd.

29.6 Was it not for this that you were put in charge as Shepherd and preserve of the Creation of this World?

27:13 Mazda Ahura whom (people) assign as a Shepherd to the poor."




Listen and Hear

45.1 Listen and hear ( or "lend your ears" and hear)
47.6 Those who hear will heed.
51. 3 Listen and hear, people of good deeds, good thoughts and words










Mat 24:11 And many false prophets will arise and lead many astray.

Mat 7:15 Beware of false prophets, who come to you in sheep's clothing but inwardly are ravenous wolves.












The NT uses the Shepherd metaphor 17 times to mean Jesus, and ‘wolves’ 4 times. In the Avesta, God is the Good Shepherd, but also Zarathustra.

John 10:11-14 I am the good shepherd. The good shepherd lays down his life for the sheep. The hired hand is not the shepherd who owns the sheep. So when he sees the wolf coming, he abandons the sheep and runs away. Then the wolf attacks the flock and scatters it. The man runs away because he is a hired hand and cares nothing for the sheep. I am the good shepherd; I know my sheep and my sheep know me.

Mat 10:16 See, I am sending you out like sheep into the midst of wolves; so be wise as serpents and innocent as doves










Lk 8:8 Mk 4:22 Mk 4:9 "Let anyone with ears to hear listen!"











The Light and The Darkness

Zoroastrianism sees the world split into light and darkness, good and evil. Zarathustra and the NT use Light and Darkness metaphors.
43.9 When The Holy Spirit came to me, and the light of truth and knowledge entered my heart, I realised you as pure and holy, O Mazda Ahura (Lord of Wisdom and Life)
30.1 I will also explain the sacred lore of Universal Truth, the truth, so that you may reach perfection and thereby realize the light of truth and find true bliss.
31.7 That ever present light which is the light of faith do you, O God, brighten in our hearts.
43.12 I will seek to inspire the voice of Insightful Conscience within me and fill my heart with divine light
44.10 Awaken faith in our hearts so that through its light our actions may turn towards truth and righteousness.
48.5 We should toil for the progress of the world (be good shepherds) for the glory of the Light.
50.5 In accord with Universal Truth, pour your blessings down upon your Singer and Teacher. With help and love, guide us up to your Light and Eternal bliss
47.5 their evil actions proceed from their evil minds, which darken their soul.

31.20 Whoever follows the Truth will enjoy the eternal light of paradise. However, the liars and evil ones will remain an eon in darkness with woe and uneasiness.





















John 8:12 Again Jesus spoke to them, saying, "I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will never walk in darkness but will have the light of life.

Mat 5:14 You are the light of the world. A city built on a hill cannot be hid.

John 1:7 He came as a witness to testify to the light, so that all might believe through him.

John 3:19 And this is the judgment, that the light has come into the world, and people loved darkness rather than light because their deeds were evil.

Eph 5:9 for the fruit of the light is found in all that is good and right and true.

John 3:20 For all who do evil hate the light and do not come to the light, so that their deeds may not be exposed.

1John 1:7 but if we walk in the light as he himself is in the light, we have fellowship with one another

Mat 4:16 the people who sat in darkness have seen a great light, and for those who sat in the region and shadow of death light has dawned."

Lu 1:79 … to give light to those who sit in darkness and in the shadow of death, to guide our feet into the way of peace."

John 3:19 And this is the judgment, that the light has come into the world, and people loved darkness rather than light because their deeds were evil.

John 8:12 Again Jesus spoke to them, saying, "I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will never walk in darkness but will have the light of life














Do not judge others

29:4 Undoubtedly, Ahura Mazda is most aware of the daeva worshippers and their hosts’ actions in the past, and of the functions which will be performed by them in future. Since the judgment of such actions will be made by Ahura Mazda alone, we are, therefore, satisfied with His Wishes whatever they may be.

The Word
Word of God brings blessings
31.6 The wise man who propagates the true religion and makes the people aware of my holy word, which leads them to perfection and immortality, will enjoy the highest bliss.
31.7 The universal mind who first spoke the Word, shining in truth, is our basics of all our duties.
51.16 … has found Wisdom through The Word, inspired by Insightful Conscience
51.8 I will reveal your holy word to the wise, so they may know both the ill fate of the liars and blessings for those who seek the Truth. He who reveals your holy words to the wise will be blessed.
32.13 But he will yearn for the message of your holy word reciter, who will strive to lead him to the vision of Universal Truth

Word as Spiritual Weapon:
27.14 The sacred mortar, the sacred cups, the Haoma, the Word taught by Mazda, these are my weapons, my best weapons! By this Word will I strike, by this Word will I repel, by this weapon will the good creatures (strike and repel thee), Evil One"

Cleansed/Healed by the Word
44.14 How should I deliver the Lie into the hands of the truthful person for cleansing through your holy words?

















1Cor 4:5 Therefore do not pronounce judgment before the time, before the Lord comes, who will bring to light the things now hidden in darkness and will disclose the purposes of the heart

Ro 12:19 Beloved, never avenge yourselves, but leave room for the wrath of God




Word of God brings blessings

Lu 11:28 Blessed rather are those who hear the word of God and obey it

Col 3:16 Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly; teach and admonish one another in all wisdom; and with gratitude in your hearts sing psalms, hymns, and spiritual songs to God.
John 14:24 the word that you hear is not mine, but is from the Father who sent me.

1The 3:1 that the word of the Lord may spread rapidly and be glorified everywhere, just as it is among you

Eph 1:13 In him you also, when you had heard the word of truth, the gospel of your salvation

Word as Spiritual Weapon:

Eph 6:17 the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God
1Jo 2:14 and the word of God abides in you, and you have overcome the evil one.


Cleansed/Healed by the Word
John 15:3 You have already been cleansed by the word that I have spoken to you.
Eph 5:26 in order to make her holy by cleansing her with the washing of water by the word
Lu 7:7 But only speak the word, and let my servant be healed.

Jesus incarnated as The Word

John 1:1 In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. And the Word became flesh







Haoma (Soma) Ritual
It is believed that the spirit of God is in Haoma or “Soma” (Vedic) juice and a ritual is carried out with cups and sacred words. By taking part in the ritual and drinking the juice the devotee attains eternal life through the spirit of Zarathustra.

"Euchrist, the Christian Greek for the holy sacrament is derived from Eu-kharistos, or Vedic Su-haritas (Avesta Kh = vedic Sa). Thus when Christ says at the last communion that "this is my body", the actual Greek term for body is "Soma", the vedic God of Immortal wine & nectar. Frawley therefore considers the last communion to be the Christian soma sacrifice, & the medieval search for the holy grail, reflecting the search for the ancient soma challis, the vessel in which the immortal soma was held & from which it could be drunk to achieve immortality." Gods, Sages & Kings, Vedic Secrets of ancient Civilization David Frawley

*10.17 From the silver cup I pour (Haoma drink) to the golden chalice over. Let me not the (sacred) liquor spill to earth, of precious cost.

*(Ref?) The sacred mortar, the sacred cups, the Haoma, the Word taught by Mazda, these are my weapons, my best weapons!

*9.16 most nutritious for the soul

*7.3. And I offer the Haoma with a complete and sacred offering for propitiation for the good waters Mazda-made. And I offer this Haoma-water with scrupulous exactness and with sanctity, and this fresh milk, and the plant Hadhanaepata uplifted with a complete and sacred offering for the propitiation of the waters which are Mazda-made.

Despite Haoma’s promises, it does not replace good deeds:

32.14 (The evil priests) wish death and destruction for the world of creation, yet are deceived to hope the invincible (Haoma) will help them.









Eucharist
Although “blood” represented by red wine is used in the Christian Eucharist, the NT suggests that “blood” is a metaphor for Spirit; ie the Spirit of Christ, since ‘spirit’ and ‘blood’ can be interchangeable, and it was often thought that blood contained one’s spirit

Mat 26:26 While they were eating, Jesus took a loaf of bread, and after blessing it he broke it, gave it to the disciples, and said, "Take, eat; this is my body."(my Soma) Then he took a cup, and after giving thanks he gave it to them, saying, "Drink from it, all of you; for this is my blood of the covenant, which is poured out for many for the forgiveness of sins.

John 6:53 Very truly, I tell you, unless you eat the flesh of the Son of Man and drink his blood, you have no life in you.

John 6:54 Those who eat my flesh and drink my blood have eternal life, and I will raise them up on the last day; for my flesh is true food and my blood is true drink. Those who eat my flesh and drink my blood abide in me, and I in them.

Blood as Spirit:

John 19:34 Instead, one of the soldiers pierced his side with a spear, and at once blood and water came out.

1John 5:8 This is the one who came by water and blood, Jesus Christ, not with the water only but with the water and the blood. And the Spirit is the one that testifies, for the Spirit is the truth. the Spirit and the water and the blood, and these three agree.




















Good Waters
Zaothrâbyô is the Avetan word for “Living Waters” or divine water that heals and spiritually nourishes.

68: This I invoke for the victorious soul who follows the glorious path of our Creator; that greatest mountain sized treasure chest of knowledge. (metaphor for God) That most inspired snow capped Mountain of Knowledge Whose divine melting waters drench our lands with Light & lustre. Onto us, your Light of Wisdom & the radiance of Purity Mental & Physical, well being physical Endurance to face life's storms, desired guidance to intellect stimulation, Victory over physical imperfections, progeny endowed with insight, victory against deceivers & evil forces Unshakeable Aligment with TRUTH, through knowledge & intellect.










Khordad Nayish prayer: (?1000BC)

"Glory be to Ahura Mazda (in your Kingdom). In the name of the Creator I praise and invoke Ahura Mazda: the Keeper of Treasures, Glorious, Omniscient, the Perfector of all deeds, the Lord of Lords, King of Kings, Protector, Creator, Giver of daily bread, Natural and Powerful, without beginning or end, Bestower of good things, the Forgiver of sins, Loving, Omnipotent, the Wise and the Nourisher. May the Glory of the Lord Ahura Mazda, who is the Creator of the whole world, be on the increas















Living Waters
The NT Greek word for “Living” is “Zao” - the same as the Avestan “Zaothrabyo”

Spiritually nourishing:

Joh 4:10 Jesus answered her, "If you knew the gift of God, and who it is that is saying to you, "Give me a drink,' you would have asked him, and he would have given you living water." The woman said to him, "Sir, you have no bucket, and the well is deep. Where do you get that living water? …. "Everyone who drinks of this water will be thirsty again,

Joh 7:38 and let the one who believes in me drink. As the scripture has said, "Out of the believer's heart shall flow rivers of living water. (“heart” in Greek Koilia, also means “innermost being”)

Healing:

John 9:7 (to the blind man) "Go, wash in the pool of Siloam" (which means Sent). Then he went and washed and came back able to see.





Lords Prayer 30AD
Mat 6:9 Pray then in this way: "Our Father in heaven, hallowed be your name, your kingdom come, your will be done on earth as it is in heaven. Give us today our daily bread. Forgive us our debts, as we also have forgiven our debtors. And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from the evil one. For thine is the glory forever and ever"

1Ti 6:15 (Christ) who is the blessed and only Sovereign, the King of kings and Lord of lords.
Rev 17:14 for he is Lord of lords and King of kings
Rev 19:16 On his robe and on his thigh he has a name inscribed, "King of kings and Lord of lords.











Baptism and Ministry at 30 Years
Zarathustra goes into the holy River Daitya then when he comes out, the heavens open and first an angel then Mazda speaks and asks Zarathustra to be Teacher to the people. While it is impossible to say if this legend is pre or post Christian, it is likely to be 600BC or earlier. Zarathustra, Ezekiel and Jesus are all 30 years of age, all go into a river, God appears in the heavens and all 3 begin their ministry.

21 About his coming to thirty years of …, on the day Anagran of the month Spandarmad, he had proceeded in that direction in which there occurred the so-called festival of spring (jashno-i vahar), forty-five days beyond new-year's day.... (he) went forth to the bank of the water of the Daitya River, because it is the river of the conference for the supremacy of Zarathustra, and is the water of Aban (Mithra) which has consisted of four channels ....When he came up from the water, and put on his clothes, he then saw the archangel ...He also inquired of Zarathustra thus: "Who are you? And where are you from? What do you most wish for and what is the meaning of life?" 10. And he replied thus: 'I am Zarathustra, among the existences righteousness is more my desire, and my wish to become aware of the will of the sacred beings…..' (Mazda appears in the sky as a light and proceeds to teach him the basics for his ministry)


Temptation in the Wilderness
Another legend that is impossible to verify date. It is believed that the "word" has power and can ward off evil.

In the Vendidad (XIX), Zarathustra is tempted in the wilderness by the Evil One, who offers him wealth and fame if he would renounce the ‘good religion’, but Zarathustra drives him away by reciting the "Ahuna Vairya" (holy words) "The sacred mortar, the sacred cups, the Haoma, the Word taught by Mazda, these are my weapons, my best weapons! By this Word will I strike, by this Word will I repel, by this weapon will the good creatures (strike and repel thee), Evil One!"





















Ezekiel 1 In the thirtieth year, in the fourth month, on the fifth day of the month, as I was among the exiles by the river Chebar, the heavens were opened, and I saw visions of God. ….2.1 He said to me: O mortal, stand up on your feet, and I will speak with you.

Luke 3:21 when Jesus also had been baptised and was praying, the heaven was opened, and the Holy Spirit descended upon him in bodily form like a dove. And a voice came from heaven, "You are my Son, the Beloved; with you I am well pleased." Jesus was about thirty years old when he began his work.














Lk 4:1-11 Jesus is tempted in the wilderness by the Evil One who offers him wealth and fame if he would worship him instead of God, but Jesus wards him off using verses from the OT (‘holy words’). "Man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word that proceedeth out of the mouth of God."

My spiritual journey to the Zarathushti faith, By Georgios Papadopoulos

Embracing a faith is never easy. It's a slow process that takes place within one's self.
At times it can be even painful, as one is confronted with his own past or the society.
It's not always easy to trace logical reasons for choosing a faith, as it's a matter of
conscience after all. In my case this process had several steps: becoming aware of the
faith, studying, realizing and finally accepting.
Living in Greece does not give anyone the chance even to hear about the existence of a small community, like the Zoroastrian one. Everybody has heard the name of the prophet Zoroaster, but nobody knows anything about his religion.

A few years ago, I came across a web site that mentioned about the religion of Zoroaster. I immediately realized I knew absolutely nothing about it, so I decided to get a book and learn more. My first book on the subject was Mary Boyce's “Zoroastrians: Their Religious Beliefs and Practices”. This comprehensive and
informative book was like a revelation to me. I realized how important this faith was and how much influence it has on the world's dominant religions.

My feelings at this point were surprise, amazement and urgent need to learn more. I ordered a few more books, some of them pretty “conservative”, like “Zoroastrianism, An ethnic perspective” by Khojeste P. Mistree and “A guide to the Zoroastrian religion” by Firoze M. Kotwal & James W. Boyd. Besides the books, I started reading
online material on the subject.

It was at this stage, when it occurred to me for the first time the possibility of accepting the faith. The more I studied the more I realized that it makes sense to me and I started finding inner peace.
At this turning point, as Ahura Mazda was shedding his divine light on my heart, at the same time I experienced such a strong Ahrimanic attack, for the first time in my life. The very foundations of my existence and balanced life were at stake. On one hand I was so peaceful in me and on the other I was threatened with the loss of my dearest person.

This extremely stressful period, which was a personal trial by fire, made it easier for me to realize that I could never worship a God that causes pain and death. This was the final blow on my old self (beliefs).
From now on I would worship only a God of Goodness, the Creator of Asha Vahishta: Ahura Mazda.

This positive & constructive nature is the major difference between Zoroastrianism and the other faiths. Many religions and stories of conversions are based on “miracles”. My story is based on both mental and sentimental reasons. Zoroastrianism appeals to my mind, as well as to my heart.
Then, there was a stage of realization for me.
Approaching my 40ies, slowly but steadily overcoming the Ahrimanic obstacles and more studying of the Gathas, the Avesta, the prayers, books and articles, made me realize that I was fully ready to take the big step and officially embrace Zoroastrianism as my faith and religion.

The primary meaning of the verb “to convert” is “cause to change in form, character, or function”. Since this is not my case, I reject the term. I cannot call my process a conversion. Zoroastrianism did not cause me to change in form, character, or function. The message of our prophet in his Gathas is so simple and yet so profound. Thinking good, talking good and doing good, was already how my character was. I did not need to change anything. Bringing good to the people and the society, fighting evil, were already there.

The next stage for me was to seriously consider my initiation. I pondered a lot over this, as there are many objections and rejections by a certain part of the Parsi community. I carefully read the arguments of both sides and came to my own conclusions, based on the holy scriptures.

In Yasna 43.1 we read that Ahura Mazda will grant the good intentioned wishes of anyone who asks for them.
Similarly in Yasna 28.10 Zarathushtra assures that Good intentioned pleas will never go unanswered by Ahura Mazda.
In Y 44.16 we see that Ahura Mazda grants divine inspiration (Sr-osh) to every man who so wishes it.

In Y46.10 we read that any man or woman that is best in life will cross the Chinvad bridge.


There is thus much evidence in the Gathas that the divine message is meant for ALL mankind, or at least the ones who wish to lead a life based on Reason.
Zoroastrianism discriminates only against Bad Intentions, not any specific group of people.

Each person is responsible for his own decisions (Y 30.2) and will have to face the consequences of his own actions. What a powerful message, one that is so allied to Science, that it transcends all time, coming to us from distant prehistory.
Man is not a puppet in the hands of the Gods, but rather a fully responsible being, capable of taking his own decisions. Our destiny and future is shaped by us, as we must see with our own eyes, hear with our own ears and decide using our own mind. There is no compulsion, just a warning from our own conscience about the Laws of Consequence. Nobody can stop a person trying to get to the path of righteousness, the path of Asha.
The Yasnas inform us that there is but one Path, the Path of Asha, all other paths are non-paths.
In the Farvardin Yasht we read that “all the Fravashis of all nations” are worshipped and that “the good Law of the worshippers of Mazda is like the atmosphere of our Earth. It will come and spread through all the seven Karshvars of the earth”.

I strongly believe that the religion should remain a non-proselytizing one, without of course rejecting sincere people entering to the religion. Therefore I reject all the people or organizations that actively support proselytizing. I believe that tradition should be respected, preserved and adapted to respond to today's needs.
When I realized that for me there was absolutely no objection on theological grounds for being invested in sudreh & kushti, I started my search to find an ordained priest willing to initiate me. With the help of Ahura Mazda this happened.
My feelings during my initiation were so varied! Anxiety just before my ritual bath gave it's place to comfort just after it. Happiness during the prayers was replaced by rejoicement when my sudreh & kushti were put on me, and finally during the Tandorosti prayer I was filled with Ushta & experienced a state of Rafedra.
My initiation was not the end of my spiritual journey towards Ahura Mazda, but the beginning. Without it, I would never find the spiritual energy passed on to me by my priest. There is still a lot to learn about my ancient faith but this does not discourage me. I will live my life as close as I can to my religion, the Mazda worshipping religion of our prophet Zarathushtra.

In my story there are no “miracles” to impress anybody, except the true miracle of feeling Ahura Mazda closer to me since my initiation. It's the miracle of true happiness when I tie my kushti on me, a miracle that cannot be seen from the outside, but that can be experienced from within. I was not expecting these before my initiation!

I hope that all my Parsi brothers and sisters will realize the necessity for recognition of genuine self-desired initiations. The theory that man is born into a certain religion, means acceptance of fate, & loss of free reasoned choice; something the Zarathushti faith does not suggest. I hope therefore that you recognize this fact & also recognize that conversions did take place in Zoroastrianism in the past (Kirdir, Mihr Nasre), that they were enjoyed by the Persian Rivayats and accepted by the Irani community as a whole. May we all be united in our struggle to bring goodness to our world.

Fusion of the best elements of Christianity & Zoroastrianism, By Zaneta Garrett.

My spiritual Journey: Zaneta Garratt.

Life

Life is like a Pilgrim's Journey.
Sometime you walk on a path through dense forests
And other times you climb up a high mountain
And the scenery from the top is breath-taking
Green valleys and blue lakes far below
And birds flying peacefully in the air.

Other times you stand on a sandy beach
Watching the deep blue sea.
Sometimes the sun is shining
And not a cloud is seen on the blue heavens.
At other times the sky is full of white puffy clouds,
Sometimes tinged with shades of pink.

At night the moon comes out
And twinking stars fill the dark sky
But most beautiful of all are the red shades
At dawn and dusk as the sun rises and sets.
And when the Autumn forests are red and yellow
Before the coming of the cold winter.
And the arrival of the white snow
Covering all that was once green.

And we can say that there is charm
In variety and prosperity
In Nature's beauty that is waiting there
To heal our restless hearts
To refresh our longing souls
And help us on our way.


Many teachings have helped me-the wisdom of the Incas of Peru and the Toltics of Mexico,the fascinating teachings of the Kabbalah,the Sufis, the Hindus and the Buddhists, to name just a few-but central for me has been my belief in both Christianity and the Zarathusthi Way (Zoroastrianism)-both religions help me greatly in different ways and give me encouragement and hope.
As I have become older I have seen the necessity of eating healthier and exercizing more than I did in the past-Also my family is very very importent to me, my husband and my five children, my husband's relatives, my relatives and my sister and her family.
I like to read books, watch nice movies,walk in the countryside and listen to good music.I like to eat good food with some wine, I make my own wine from plums mostly and I eat fish and dairy products but I never eat animals nor birds, this is called Marine Vegetarianism. I also like animals, especially dogs.I feel that we are always learning and progressing and we are here to help others and ourselves as well. I believe that the Creator God /The Lord of Wisdom watches over us. I also believe that we are spiritual beings and that our life continues after death as our souls are immortal. And I also believe that we each have a Guardian Angel, in the Zarathushtri Religion this is called a Fravashi.

Both Christianity and the Zarathusthri Way are religions that advocate high ethics, but , as the latter is older, I believe that it has had an influence on Judaism, and from that, on Christianity as well. Both religions believe in a life after this one, the continuation of the soul after death.I find it very interesting to read the scriptures of both religions, they are helpful and inspiring. And the theologies of both religions are fascinating also. The founders, Zarathustra and Jesus, both have a living message that speaks very much to me. Both Jesus and Zarathustra wanted a society that was just and fair-where the people would be treated as equals and the rulers were of good character.

The doctrine of the Amesha Spentas/Bountiful immortals in the Zarathushtri Religion, is a very beautiful one-quoting from my blog-

There are six further attributes/emanations of Ahura Mazda called the Amesha Spentas-the Beneficial Immortals-these are called
Vohu Mano - Beneficent-Loving Mind.
Asha Vahishta -The Highest Truth/Reality.
Khshathra Vairya - Benevolent Power
Spenta Armaiti -Energetic Devotion-to purpose
Haurvatat- Self Realisation
Ameretat -Immortality or Non-Deathness
Haurvatat and Ameretat are desired states of being; While Vohu Mano, Asha Vahishta, Spenta Armaiti and Khshatra are virtues to be developed.In keeping with gender equality, the first three -Vohu Mano, Asha Vahishta and Khshathra Vairya are male and Spenta Armaiti, Haurvatat and Ameretat are female.
We embrace Vohu Mano when we think good thoughts, we embrace Asha Vahishta when we do good deeds and we embrace Spenta Armaiti when we show love and devotion to our fellow human beings and animals . We embrace Khshathra Vairya /Benevolent Power when we act in a spirit of love and eventually we will become Haurvatat-Perfect and Whole and we will reach Ameretat -Immortality or Non-Deathness after we have died when we will become one with Ahura Mazda forever.
http://farovar.blogspot.com/

My favorite stories from Christianity are the stories of the Good Samaritan and the Prodigal Son in Saint Luke's gospel-I quote from the Roman Catholic Bible-

Luke:ch:10:30 And Jesus answering, said: A certain man went down from Jerusalem to Jericho and fell among robbers, who also stripped him and having wounded him went away, leaving him half dead. 31 And it chanced, that a certain priest went down the same way: and seeing him, passed by. 32 In like manner also a Levite, when he was near the place and saw him, passed by. 33 But a certain Samaritan, being on his journey, came near him: and seeing him, was moved with compassion: 34 And going up to him, bound up his wounds, pouring in oil and wine: and setting him upon his own beast, brought him to an inn and took care of him. 35 And the next day he took out two pence and gave to the host and said: Take care of him; and whatsoever you shall spend over and above, I, at my return, will repay you. 36 Which of these three, in your opinion, was neighbour to him that fell among the robbers? 37 But he said: He that showed mercy to him. And Jesus said to him: Go, and do in like manner.

http://www.newadvent.org/bible/luk010.htm

Luke:ch.15:11 And he said: A certain man had two sons. 12 And the younger of them said to his father: Father, give me the portion of substance that falls to me. And he divided unto them his substance. 13 And not many days after, the younger son, gathering all together, went abroad into a far country: and there wasted his substance, living riotously. 14 And after he had spent all, there came a mighty famine in that country: and he began to be in want. 15 And he went and cleaved to one of the citizens of that country. And he sent him into his farm to feed swine. 16 And he would fain have filled his belly with the husks the swine ate: and no man gave unto him. 17 And returning to himself, he said: How many hired servants in my father's house abound with bread, and I here perish with hunger! 18 I will arise and will go to my father and say to him: Father, I have sinned against heaven and before you. 19 I am not worthy to be called your son: make me as one of your hired servants. 20 And rising up, he came to his father. And when he was yet a great way off, his father saw him and was moved with compassion and running to him fell upon his neck and kissed him. 21 And the son said to him: Father: I have sinned against heaven and before you I am not now worthy to be called your son. 22 And the father said to his servants: Bring forth quickly the first robe and put it on him: and put a ring on his hand and shoes on his feet. 23 And bring hither the fatted calf, and kill it: and let us eat and make merry: 24 Because this my son was dead and has come to life again, was lost and is found. And they began to be merry. 25 Now his elder son was in the field and when he came and drew near to the house, he heard music and dancing. 26 And he called one of the servants, and asked what these things meant. 27 And he said to him: Your brother has come and your father has killed the fatted calf, because he has received him safe. 28 And he was angry and would not go in. His father therefore coming out began to entreat him. 29 And he answering, said to his father: Behold, for so many years do I serve you and I have never transgressed your commandment: and yet you have never given me a kid to make merry with my friends. 30 But as soon as this your son has come, who has devoured his substance with harlots, you have killed for him the fatted calf. 31 But he said to him: Son, you are always with me; and all I have is yours. 32 But it was fit that we should make merry and be glad: for this your brother was dead and has come to life again; he was lost, and is found.
http://www.newadvent.org/bible/luk015.htm

These two stories show the importance of kindness,helping and forgiving.And these are important qualities in the Zarathushtri Religion as well.

I say that I believe in both these religions, so I would call myself Christrian but believing in Zarathustra as well.I believe that both these religions can help the believer to be a better person and I like both equally, they both are Divinely-inspired and good for my soul.