First Page
47
Last Page
60
Abstract
This study seeks to examine the concept of purity as it relates to food in Zoroastrianism. In the past and until today, the essence of Zoroastrian religion rests on belief in an ongoing struggle between light and dark forces within each human being. Focused on “good thoughts, good words, good deeds,” Zoroastrianism has emphasized pure living, both in ancient times and today, in ways that bear upon what people eat. In terms of food, there are many examples of purity and ritual in Zoroastrianism. As one example, religious participation has required eating food cooked only by Zoroastrians. Another example is that there seems to be a demonic association with honey. On the other hand, there does not seem to be any evidence of a ban on meat or wine in religious texts. Of course, animals are of high importance to Zoroastrians, which is why some texts advise feeding animals, especially dogs, before feeding humans. Even menstruating women possess their own restrictions when it comes to food.
