Zoroastrianism and Judaism

This set of flashcards covers key concepts, terms, and definitions from the lecture notes on Zoroastrianism and Judaism.

Monotheism

Belief in a single, usually omnipotent and/or omnipresent deity.

Zoroastrianism

An ancient pre-Islamic religion of Iran that emphasizes a dualistic view of the universe, centered on the struggle between Ahura Mazda and Angra Mainyu.

Ahura Mazda

The wise lord in Zoroastrianism who represents good and is the creator of all that is good.

Asha

A concept in Zoroastrianism meaning order, truth, and righteousness that humans are called to pursue.

Torah

The central reference of the religious Judaic tradition, consisting of five books revealed to Moses.

Covenant

A religious and moral agreement establishing a relationship between God and the Jewish people centered around adherence to the Torah.

Diaspora

The dispersion of Jews beyond Israel, particularly after conquests, leading to the integration of Jewish communities into other cultures.

Halakha

Jewish law that dictates daily living and religious practices, which underwent changes during the Hellenization period.

Yahweh

The personal name of God in Judaism, representing the singular God of Israel.

Yasna

The primary liturgical collection of texts in Zoroastrianism, involving prayers and invocations.