"born". During the time of Zoroaster, Mithra was one prominent religion practiced by the Iranians. Those who were followers of Mithra (as well as other religions) would sacrifice animals to pay homage to their gods. It wasn't uncommon for worshippers to consume narcotics and intoxicating beverages called Haoma (Zaehner 38). Zoroaster's revolt against such ritualistic practices in Mithra and other Iranian religions is noted when he cried out to Ahura Mazda for help. " 'When wilt thou strike down this filthy drunkness,' the prophet exclaims, 'with which the priests (karapans) evilly delude (the people) as do the wicked rulers of the providences in (full) consciousness (of what they do).' " (Zaehner 38) In response, Zoroaster had received a vision from Ahura Mazda, the Wise Lord, who appointed him to teach the truth. Initially, Zoroaster did not try to overthrow current religions. But instead he placed Ahura Mazda as the "Head God". Through his attempts to slowly reform the Iranian religions, Zoroaster was opposed in his monotheistic teachings and principles by religious authorities in the area that he preached. His enemies were the established civil and religious heads who wanted no part in undoing the ancient national religions, which had strong ties in existing social and economic structures. Zoroaster testifies: "Where and which part of land shall I go succeed? They keep me away from the family and the tribe. The community that I wish to join does not gratify me, nor do the deceitful tyrants of the land. How shall I gratify you, O Ahura Mazda?" (Clark 3) It can be deduced that he was persecuted by religious and civil leaders and in turn escaped from his homeland. Researchers indicate that Zoroaster appealed to one of the great leaders of his time called King Vishtaspa (the great grandson of Xerxes of Greece) (Finegan 83). The king along with a few others, (who included some family), became followers and began spreadin...
