History

The Zarathushti religion originated in Iran and was established 
by the prophet Zarathustra who was born about three thousand years 
ago.  For over a thousand years, the Zarathushti religion flourished 
as the "Imperial Religion" of the mighty Iraninan empire.
Zarathushtis believe that there is only one God. This God is 
called by the Avestan name Ahura Mazda. Ahura Mazda, as believed by 
Zarathushtis, is the Creator of all existence and is the source of power in this universe as is 
known today.

SUMMARY
The religion is founded on three fundamental principles: Good 
thoughts (Humata), Good words (Hukhta), and Good deeds (Hvareshta). 
Every Zarathushti tries to abide by these principles, which are also 
known as the three Divine Principles. The path of Truth (Asha) is the one 
which leads a Zartoshti to God. Asha incorporates many philosophies in its 
meaning.  Among them are good conscience, faith and righteousness. Also 
emphasized are Truth, Purity, and Social Justice.

FRAVAHAR
The fravahar is a Zarathustri religious symbol that looks like 
a bearded man with its lower part of the body in the form of a bird with 
spread out wings. It contains many different parts, each with its own 
significance. The face and the torso represent the consciousness of man. The 
right hand pointing upwards represents the only path, which is the path of 
truth. The two tassles represent the art of balance in life. The three 
parts of the wing represent the three Divine Principles. This symbol is 
used to remind Zarathushtis to become better human beings.

CALIFORNIA
It is estimated that the total number of Zoroastrians in the 
world today is between 140,000 and 200,000. The majority are in Iran, India, 
Europe, and North America. There are many different Dar-e-Mehrs situated 
across the world, and a large number of them in North America. In 
southern California, the California Zoroastrian Center is located in Orange County. 
Many religious celebrations are held there, a convenient location 
between Los Angeles and San Diego. During different ceremonies, 
Zarathushtis from all over the area, and sometimes from distant locations as well, 
gather to celebrate and be aware of the religion.

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