Why Muslims In Uzbekistan Follow Zoroastrian Traditions

Zoroastrianism — an ancient monotheistic religion that predates Christianity and Islam — found a home in Uzbekistan in the 6th century when Persians established a base in the region. The religion has roots in Persia, and followers are spread out in modern day Iran, India and Central Asia. It was widely practiced in Uzbekistan for years before Arabs-Muslims conquered the Silk Road in the 7th and 8th centuries. Today, over 90% of the country is Muslim, however Zoroastrianism still has a large influence in the region. Persian prophet Zarathustra founded Zoroastriansim in the early 6th century. He claimed that followers should only follow one god, Ahura Mazda the Lord of Wisdom. The struggle between “good and evil” is central to the religion, and concepts like heaven, hell and judgement day are emphasized. Elements also play a large role in Zoroastrianism. Many of the rituals involve fire, which represents purity and an illuminated mind, and water, which represents spiritual cleansing.