In this thought-provoking talk, Dr. Rastin Mehri explores how Pahlavi literature reflects the universality and historical growth of Zoroastrianism, including the acceptance of the Good Religion, religious instruction, initiation practices, ethical commitment, and individual choice.
Abstract:
This presentation will highlight the ways in which Pahlavi literature emphasizes formal acceptance of the “Good Religion” (Dēn ī Wehīg). This is done through accepting Zoroastrianism (Dēn ī Māzdēsn) and by ritual initiation, instruction in core doctrines (Ohrmazd, Ahlāīh [Aša] vs. Druj, free will, and eschatology to name but a few), and ethical commitment.
The presentation will show how texts such as the Dēnkard and priestly Rivāyats describe the process as involving hearing the teachings, public declaration of faith, investiture with the sedrag and kustīg, and participation in rites. State-supported orthodoxy under the Sasanians promoted initiation ceremonies as both religious and political loyalty to Ērānšahr, often portraying it as restoration to the ancestral faith.
The Zand commentaries reinforced this by clarifying Avestan injunctions, framing initiation to Zoroastrianism as an act in alignment with cosmic order and moral responsibility rather than mere ritual.
About the Speaker:
Rastin Mehri obtained his Ph.D. from the School of Oriental and African Studies, University of London, UK, under the supervision of Professor Almut Hintze and the late Professor John Hinnells. He also holds an MA in Biblical Studies, a BA in Religions Studies, and a BFA (Fine Arts), from the University of British Columbia. His research interests include Persian and Arabic literature, Zoroastrianism, and he also studies Middle Eastern diasporas in Canada. He lives and works in Vancouver, British Columbia.