Written by In discussions of world history, philosophy, and religious thought, the omission of key influences is not just an oversight—it is a form of deception. Lying by omission occurs when vital truths are deliberately left out, shaping a false perception of reality. One of the most glaring examples of this is the systematic neglect of Zoroastrianism in mainstream narratives.
Despite being one of the oldest known monotheistic religions, foundational to concepts of good and evil, divine justice, and free will, Zoroastrianism is often ignored, downplayed, or entirely erased from historical discourse. This omission distorts our understanding of religious evolution, philosophical development, and even the roots of modern ethical systems.
Why Does This Omission Matter?
Neglecting to acknowledge Zoroastrianism’s role in shaping civilization is not a passive mistake—it is an active suppression of truth that:
- Falsifies Historical Context – By failing to mention Zoroastrianism’s contributions, mainstream narratives make it seem as though later religions and philosophies emerged in isolation.
- Denies Intellectual Lineage – Key ideas in Abrahamic religions, Greek philosophy, and even Enlightenment thought can be traced to Zoroastrian principles, yet this connection is rarely acknowledged.
- Erases Cultural Identity – For centuries, Zoroastrians have faced persecution and marginalization. Omitting their contributions contributes to their continued erasure from global consciousness.
- Serves a Larger Control Mechanism – When history is selectively edited, it allows certain powers to shape public perception and maintain ideological dominance.
How Zoroastrianism Shaped the World
1. The Origins of Monotheism
Long before Judaism, Christianity, and Islam, Zoroastrianism introduced the concept of a singular, supreme God: Ahura Mazda. This idea directly influenced later monotheistic traditions, yet its role is rarely credited.
2. The Battle Between Good and Evil
The classic struggle of light versus darkness, good versus evil, truth versus falsehood was deeply ingrained in Zoroastrian thought centuries before it appeared in other major religions. The dualistic framework of Asha (truth) vs. Druj (deception) became a foundational element in Judeo-Christian and Islamic theology.
3. The Concept of the Messiah and Judgment Day
Ideas of a savior (Saoshyant), resurrection, and a final judgment originated in Zoroastrian eschatology, pre-dating their later appearances in Christianity and Islam. Yet, mainstream religious discussions present these as entirely independent revelations.
4. Influence on Greek Philosophy
Philosophers like Plato and Pythagoras were influenced by Persian Magi, yet history textbooks and academic discussions often fail to mention these exchanges. The ethical dualism of Zoroastrianism shaped Western thought, but its presence is erased.
5. The Suppression of Zoroastrianism in Historical Records
- The Hellenization of Knowledge: After Alexander’s conquest of Persia, Greek historians often appropriated Persian ideas without proper attribution.
- Religious Suppression: With the rise of Islam and later colonial narratives, Zoroastrianism was intentionally sidelined to fit the new ideological structures.
- Modern-Day Silence: Today, Zoroastrianism is often reduced to a footnote rather than acknowledged as a central pillar of civilization’s intellectual and spiritual heritage.
Lying by Omission: The Deliberate Silencing of Truth
Omission is a powerful form of deception. When history is selectively told, the absence of certain truths becomes just as manipulative as outright lies. The systematic neglect of Zoroastrianism in mainstream discussions is not accidental—it is part of a pattern of historical control that ensures the dominant narratives remain unchallenged.
By erasing Zoroastrianism’s contributions, the world is deprived of a full understanding of its own origins, its moral frameworks, and the deep interconnectedness of civilizations.
Restoring the Fire of Truth
Zoroastrianism’s legacy cannot be erased—it continues to burn like an eternal flame in the fabric of human history. The first step to undoing the deception of omission is to bring these truths back into the light and challenge the narratives that have been artificially constructed.
If knowledge is power, then hiding knowledge is a form of control. The suppression of Zoroastrianism’s impact is not just an academic issue—it is a philosophical and existential one. To reclaim history is to reclaim truth itself.
Call to Action
- Educate yourself and others about Zoroastrian history and its influence.
- Challenge narratives that ignore or erase its contributions.
- Spread awareness and keep the flame of truth alive.
History should be about revealing truth, not concealing it. And in the battle between Asha (Truth) and Druj (Deception), the fire of knowledge must never be extinguished.