Zoroastrianism
Explanation
The Zend Avesta is the primary collection of sacred texts of Zoroastrianism, an ancient monotheistic religion founded by the Prophet Zoroaster (Zarathustra) in ancient Iran.
- Zoroastrianism: The Zend Avesta contains the Gathas, which are seventeen hymns attributed to Zoroaster, along with various liturgical texts and prayers. Historically, the language of the Avesta shares a strong linguistic affinity with the Vedic Sanskrit found in the Rig Veda, suggesting a common cultural heritage between the ancient Iranians and the Vedic Aryans.
- Judaism: The central sacred text is the Torah (part of the Tanakh or Hebrew Bible).
- Buddhism: The canonical texts are collectively known as the Tripitakas (Vinaya, Sutta, and Abhidhamma Pitakas).
- Jainism: The sacred texts are known as the Agamas or Agam Sutras, compiled based on the teachings of Mahavira.
Key Takeaway: The Zend Avesta is the holy scripture of Zoroastrianism (Parsis) and is significant in historical studies for its linguistic closeness to the Vedas.