Ahura Mazda as the Father of Creation: John 14:12 (Part 2)

1. Creator of the Universe:
   • Ahura Mazda is acknowledged as the creator of the universe, encompassing both the spiritual and material worlds. He is credited with creating the sky, earth, water, plants, animals, and humans.
   • In the Avesta, the holy scriptures of Zoroastrianism, Ahura Mazda is frequently praised as the creator. For example, in the Yasna 31.7, it states: “He who has created this world of existence, who has created the good waters, who has created the holy plants, who has created the light and the earth and all good things, who has created the cow and the good Religion of Mazda-worship.”
2. Source of Life and Wisdom:
   • Ahura Mazda is seen as the source of all life and wisdom, providing guidance and enlightenment to his followers. This aspect reinforces his paternal role in nurturing and sustaining creation.
   • In the Yashts, particularly the Hormazd Yasht, Ahura Mazda is invoked for his wisdom and guidance, demonstrating his role as a fatherly figure providing for and protecting his creation.
3. Cosmic Order and Asha:
   • Ahura Mazda is associated with Asha, the divine order, truth, and righteousness that governs the universe. As the upholder of Asha, Ahura Mazda ensures the harmony and balance of creation, similar to a father maintaining order within a family.
   • The concept of Asha is central to Zoroastrianism, and Ahura Mazda’s role in establishing and preserving Asha is akin to a paternal responsibility for the well-being of his creation.
4. Paternal Imagery and Titles:
   • Ahura Mazda is often described using paternal imagery, emphasizing his role as a protector, provider, and guide. These descriptions reinforce the perception of Ahura Mazda as the Father of creation.
   • Titles such as “Creator of the World,” “Father of Truth,” and “Source of Light” highlight his fatherly attributes and his role in bringing forth and sustaining life.

Scriptural References

1. Yasna 31.7:
   • “He who has created this world of existence, who has created the good waters, who has created the holy plants, who has created the light and the earth and all good things, who has created the cow and the good Religion of Mazda-worship.”
2. Yasna 44.7:
   • “This I ask thee, tell me truly, Ahura, who fashioned the beginning of the world of good things? Who established the course of the sun and the stars? Who causes the moon to wax and wane? Who, if not thou, the great Wise Lord?”
3. Hormazd Yasht:
   • “We sacrifice unto Ahura Mazda, the Creator of all good things, the luminous, the resplendent, the glorious, the wonderful, the wise, the bounteous, the glorious.”

Conclusion

Ahura Mazda is often referred to as the Father of creation in Zoroastrianism, reflecting his role as the creator, sustainer, and protector of the universe. This paternal imagery underscores his responsibility for the well-being and order of all creation, similar to a father’s role within a family. By examining scriptural references and the associated themes, it becomes clear that Ahura Mazda’s fatherly attributes are central to Zoroastrian belief and worship.

Connecting this understanding to John 14:12, we can see how Jesus’ reference to “the Father” can resonate with Zoroastrian themes, suggesting a deep, divine empowerment and continuity of good works rooted in a shared recognition of a supreme, paternal creator.