ZENDAVESTA Meaning and
Definition
-
Zendavesta is a sacred and ancient religious text of Zoroastrianism, the monotheistic Persian faith that emerged around the 6th century BCE. The word "Zendavesta" is derived from two Avestan terms: "zenda," meaning "knowledge" or "writing," and "vesta," signifying "law" or "religion." Thus, the term can be understood as "the book of knowledge and law."
Composed in the Avestan language, the Zendavesta is a compilation of various texts that encompass the fundamental teachings, rituals, prayers, and hymns of Zoroastrianism. It is attributed to the prophet Zoroaster (also known as Zarathustra), who is considered the founder of the religion.
The Zendavesta is divided into several sections or books, with the most notable being the Yasna, Visperad, Vendidad, and Yashts. The Yasna contains the core liturgical texts, including the Gathas, which are the hymns believed to be directly authored by Zoroaster. The Visperad consists of supplementary prayers and rituals, while the Vendidad provides guidance on societal laws, moral principles, and purification rituals. The Yashts are hymns dedicated to various deities and celestial beings.
Considered as the primary religious scripture of Zoroastrianism, the Zendavesta is held in high regard and is revered as a source of sacred knowledge. It serves as a spiritual guide and a repository of the faith's beliefs, rituals, and ethical principles. The Zendavesta has played a crucial role in shaping Zoroastrian theology and practices, reflecting the ancient worldview and moral teachings of this venerable religious tradition.
Common Misspellings for ZENDAVESTA
- zend-vesta
- zen-davesta
- xendavesta
- sendavesta
- aendavesta
- zwndavesta
- zsndavesta
- zdndavesta
- zrndavesta
- z4ndavesta
- z3ndavesta
- zebdavesta
- zemdavesta
- zejdavesta
- zehdavesta
- zensavesta
- zenxavesta
- zencavesta
- zenfavesta
- zenravesta
Etymology of ZENDAVESTA
The word "Zendavesta" is derived from the Avestan language, an ancient Iranian language in which the sacred texts of Zoroastrianism were written. "Zend" means "interpretation" or "commentary", and "avesta" means "text" or "knowledge". Therefore, "Zendavesta" can be translated as "interpretation of knowledge" or "commentary on the texts". The Zendavesta, also known as the Avesta, is the primary source of religious texts and rituals in Zoroastrianism, the ancient Persian religion established by the prophet Zoroaster.
Infographic
Add the infographic to your website:
