Concept of Divinity in Jainism

Author(s): P Ajay Kothari
Publisher: Prakrit Bharti Academy

Page 23

Zoroastrianism (Parsi-ism)
Zoroaster, the prophet of Ahura Mazda, preached monotheistic religion. According to him, Ahura Mazda is the only god whom people should adore and worship 36 Ahura means 'Lord' and Mazda means 'All wise'. Ahura Mazda, by etymology, means All-wise. Fire (atas) is the purest symbol of the faith in Zoroastrianism. The sacred fire, the visible sign of his presence is a symbol of His true order.37 Every Zoroastrian professes his faith as follows:
"Mazddyarno ahmi (I am a worshiper of Mazda), Mazdayasno Zarathustrais (I am worshipper of Mazda as announced by Zarthustra) Fravarane tkaesho, Mazdayasna Zorathustris vidoero, Ahura (I confess myself to be a worshipper of Mazda, a follower of Zoroaster, an opponent of Devas (false god) and subject to the laws of Ahura)". 38
Zoroastrian worships-with the expression: "O, Mazda, grant me goodness as a reward for prayer, through righteousness the full vigour of soul and all embracing love through good thoughts".39 In this context, it is worth while to note the view of Prof. K.N. Mitra: "The religion of Zoroaster may be said to be, as Jackson points out, dualistic and monotheistic." It is the belief of Zoroastrianism that "At the beginning of the things, there existed two spirits Ahura Mazda and Angara Mainyus." They represent good and evil. The evil one, was created for wicked, and for the pure and pious was created Ahura Mazda.40
To sum up, the Holy Ahura Mazda is the Creator,41 and Supporter12. He is the greatest Consoler.43 He is omniscient44 (Vispo-akas or Harvispa akas). He rewards the righteous and punishes the wrong doers but he is compassionate and forgives the sinner on repentance by his mercy.45 Ahura Mazda gives perfection and immortality unto the pious who live righteous and devoted life of the best thought (Humata), words, (Hukta) and
THE CONCEPT OF DIVINITY IN JAINISM