Concept: Zoroastrianism places a strong emphasis on the triad of good thoughts (Humata), good words (Hukhta), and good deeds (Hvarshta) as the foundation of ethical living.
Example:
Avestan Prayer: “Ashem Vohu” – “Holiness is the best of all good. It is also happiness. Happy is the man who is holy with perfect holiness!”
Internal Purity and Righteousness (Asha)
Concept: Asha represents truth, order, and righteousness. It is a central concept in Zoroastrianism, guiding individuals to live in harmony with divine order.
Example:
Yasna 60.11: “May we be those who renew the world! May we purify the world, and may we be blessed with joy. May Ahura Mazda grant us this!”
Teachings of Jesus
Sermon on the Mount
Concept: In this key sermon, Jesus emphasizes internal purity, ethical behavior, and the spirit of the law rather than mere external observance.
Examples:
Matthew 5:8: “Blessed are the pure in heart, for they will see God.”
Matthew 5:21-22: “You have heard that it was said to the people long ago, ‘You shall not murder, and anyone who murders will be subject to judgment.’ But I tell you that anyone who is angry with a brother or sister will be subject to judgment.”
Teachings on Love and Forgiveness
Concept: Jesus teaches the importance of love, forgiveness, and reconciliation, reflecting the Zoroastrian emphasis on good deeds and ethical living.
Examples:
Matthew 5:44: “But I tell you, love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you.”
Matthew 6:14-15: “For if you forgive other people when they sin against you, your heavenly Father will also forgive you. But if you do not forgive others their sins, your Father will not forgive your sins.”
Comparative Analysis
Focus on Internal Purity
Zoroastrianism: Internal purity is emphasized through the practice of maintaining good thoughts, words, and deeds. The Ashem Vohu prayer underscores the importance of holiness and righteousness.
Teachings of Jesus: Jesus stresses internal purity by focusing on the intentions and attitudes of the heart. The Beatitudes, especially “Blessed are the pure in heart,” highlight this focus.
Ethical Conduct and Righteousness
Zoroastrianism: Asha (righteousness) is a guiding principle that dictates ethical behavior and living in accordance with divine truth.
Teachings of Jesus: Jesus teaches that righteousness goes beyond external adherence to the law and encompasses internal attitudes and ethical conduct, as seen in his reinterpretation of the commandments in the Sermon on the Mount.
Love and Forgiveness
Zoroastrianism: The emphasis on good deeds includes actions that promote harmony and reconciliation.
Teachings of Jesus: Jesus’ teachings on love and forgiveness reflect the Zoroastrian ideal of good deeds, promoting peace and reconciliation among individuals.
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