Portal:History/Featured article/February, 2009

Zoroastrianism is the religion and philosophy based on the teachings ascribed to the prophet Zarathustra (Zarathushtra, Zartosht, Zoroaster in Greek). This term is essentially synonymous with Mazdaism, which acknowledges the divine authority of Ahura Mazda, proclaimed by Zarathustra, as demonstrated by Zoroastrianistic creed and articles of faith. In a declaration of the creed — the Fravarānē — the adherent states: "…I profess myself a devotee of Mazda, a follower of Zarathustra." (Yasna 12.2, 12.8)

Zoroastrianism was once the dominant religion of much of Greater Iran, practiced by the Iranian tribes, including but not limited to the Persians, the Pashtoons, the Balochis, the Ossetics, the Yaghnobi, and the Kurds. However, following the arrival of Islam, the number of adherents has dwindled to not more than 250,000 Zoroastrians worldwide, with concentrations in India, Iran and Pakistan (see demographics below). However, according to some other sources, the population is roughly ten times that.