Vedic and Zoroastrian Religions: A Role Reversal

The term 'role reversal' highlights the shift between the Vedic religion and Zoroastrianism. These two traditions, despite sharing roots, diverge sharply.This change is linked to Zoroaster, the founder of Zoroastrianism. He rebelled against the Vedic religion and created a new religious order.

1. Zoroaster’s Rebellion: A New Order

Zoroaster rejected the dominance of Indra. He promoted Varuna, who he saw as Ahura Mazda, as the supreme god. In the Vedic texts, Varuna is often called Asura. This title originally meant 'mighty one' but later took on negative meanings. Zoroaster’s defiance inverted the roles, making Ahura Mazda the highest god and Indra a lesser spirit.

2. Indra: From God to Demon

In the Vedic religion, Indra is the king of gods. He is a warrior and brings rain. The Rigveda praises Indra for slaying Vritra and releasing the waters.

In Zoroastrianism, Indra’s role is reversed. He becomes a demon, a Daeva, opposing Ahura Mazda. This shift shows Zoroaster’s rejection of Indra’s power. He transformed a central Vedic god into an evil force.

3. Devas and Ahuras: Swapped Roles

In the Vedic religion, the Devas are good gods. They control natural forces like fire and water.

In Zoroastrianism, Daevas are demons. Ahuras, who were once lesser beings, are now seen as good. Ahura Mazda is their leader. This change marks a clear shift in values, where good and evil roles are swapped.

4. Yama and Yima: Different Paths

Yama, in the Vedic tradition, is the god of death. He rules the afterlife and is the first mortal to die.

In Zoroastrianism, Yima plays a different role. He presides over a golden age. Yima is not connected to death but to life. This change shows a shift in how life and death are viewed.

Conclusion

Zoroaster’s rebellion led to a major shift. He redefined the gods and their roles. This inversion of values created a new religious framework. It marked the separation of Vedic and Zoroastrian beliefs. The changes reflect Zoroaster’s challenge to the old order, creating a new path for his followers.

Knowledge Bank

How are the Vedas studied today?

Vedas are still studied following the system of oral transmission. The teacher chants a mantra and the students repeat after him till it is memorized and its pronunciation perfected.

Earth is hot inside - says Veda

Veda calls the earth Agnivasah (अग्निवासाः). It means that the earth has fire inside and is surrounded by fire from outside which is the heat from the Sun.