Eschatology and eschatologic myths in Zoroastrianism

Zoroastrianism is a religion and philosophical system that emerged in the ancient Persian Empire, founded by Zoroaster. The eschatological beliefs of this religion play a critical role in understanding human existence, moral responsibility, and one's place in the universe. In Zoroastrianism, eschatology encompasses beliefs related to the end of the world, the apocalypse, and the ultimate fate of humanity. These beliefs are deeply rooted in the teachings of Zoroaster and significantly influence the formation of moral and ethical values at both individual and societal levels. The struggle between good and evil occupies a central position in Zoroastrian eschatological beliefs and is a fundamental theme that determines the ontological structure of the universe. This struggle is shaped around the opposition between Ahûra Mazda (the God of goodness and order) and Ehrimen (the spirit of evil and chaos). Zoroastrianism posits that this duality, defined as a cosmic conflict, has existed since the creation of the universe and has influenced the moral choices of individuals throughout human history. From an eschatological perspective, this struggle will reach a definitive conclusion during the Frashoakereti period, culminating in the belief that good will ultimately prevail. In this process, the actions individuals perform throughout their lives will play a decisive role on the day of judgment; good deeds will lead to the acceptance of souls into paradise, while bad deeds will result in their descent into hell. Therefore, the struggle between good and evil in Zoroastrianism is regarded not only as an individual moral responsibility but also as a necessary cosmic conflict for the establishment of universal order. At the center of Zoroastrian eschatological beliefs lies the concept of "Frashakereti." This term refers to the process of renewal at the end of the world. Frashakereti symbolizes a period in which the universe will achieve a final order, all souls will be judged, and the wicked will be punished. The belief that individuals will be evaluated based on their good and bad deeds throughout their lives forms the moral framework of Zoroastrianism. An important element of Zoroastrian eschatological beliefs is the figure of the "Saoshyant." The Saoshyant is considered a savior who will redeem the world in the post-apocalyptic era. The belief that the Saoshyant will come to the world three times enhances the significance of this figure. The arrival of the Saoshyant will end the chaos in the universe and save humanity. This salvation symbolizes a rebirth at both individual and societal levels. In Zoroastrianism, the actions of each individual throughout their life are judged after death. This judgment process occurs through the passage over the "Chinvat Bridge." Good souls cross this bridge to reach paradise, while bad souls fail to cross and fall into hell. This judgment process highlights the individual's moral responsibility and the consequences of free will. Zoroastrian eschatological beliefs also encompass the ongoing conflict between good and evil. Ahûra Mazda is associated with the concept of "Asha" (truth and order) as the representative of goodness and order, while Ehrimen (the spirit of evil) is represented by "Druj" (lie). The struggle between these two forces determines the fate of the universe and humanity, with Zoroastrian eschatology asserting that good will ultimately triumph in this conflict. The end times in Zoroastrianism symbolize the rebirth of the universe and a period in which all people will be accepted into the presence of Ahûra Mazda. During this time, all souls will be judged based on their past actions, and a final order will be established. This process signifies a transformation and renewal at both individual and societal levels. The eschatological beliefs in Zoroastrianism play a critical role in understanding human existence and one's place in the universe. The struggle between good and evil, the themes of individual free will, and ultimate salvation constitute the foundational elements of Zoroastrianism. These beliefs reinforce the moral and ethical values of Zoroastrianism while also adding meaning to individuals' lives. Zoroastrian eschatology has a profound impact in historical and cultural contexts. Keywords: Zoroastrianism, Eschatology, Frashakereti, Savior, Saoshyant.