one as well. The monotheistic basis of Zoroaster's teaching appears to be dualistic. Ahura Mazda appears to have an opposing (evil) force. Zoroaster taught that in the beginning there was a meeting of two spirits, who were free to choose "life or not life." This original choice gave birth good spirit (Spenta Mainyu) and evil spirit(Angra Mainyu). (Clark 7) Monotheism, however, prevails over ethical and religious dualism because Ahura Mazda is actually comprised of both spirits, who were divided into the two opposed principles through their own choice and decision pitted in an eternal struggle. (Clark 6-10) At the beginning of time, the world was divided into the dominion of the good and of the evil. Between these, each man is bound to decide. From man's freedom of decision, he alone is responsible for his fate. Through his good deeds, the righteous person earns an everlasting reward. He who opts for evil is condemned by Ahura Mazda and must expect to descend to the Christian concept of hell. Ahura Mazda is said to eventually vanquish the spirit of evil. This is done in similar fashion as the Christian religion, where there is a final internal confrontation where the good spirit, Spenta Mainyu, destroys the evil spirit. Zoroaster's monotheistic solution had replaced the idea of dualism. (Zaehner 54-57)Not many stories have been recorded about teachings that Zoroaster supplied to his followers. Zoroastrianism had eventually grown popular among the Iranian people but had still received opposition from other religious heads. Several attempts were made by opposing religions to uproot the new theology. Some religious leaders tried to discredit the Zoroastrians by accusing them of being "fire worshippers". Zoroaster didn't believe in anthropomorphism, so he chose to symbolize his god with fire. Zoroaster considered "light" and "fire" to be the cleanest phenomena in the earth therefore he chose them to be the symbol of Ahura Mazda. ...
