Selections from Zoroastrianism’s Sacred Book “Sad Dar”: Chapters 25-62, Part 1 of 2

Zoroaster, also known as Zarathustra, was a holy prophet who lived in ancient Iran. Within the Zoroastrian teachings, humans have free will, which can be used to choose the way of good or evil. To achieve true inner fulfillment, one must choose to formulate good thoughts, speak good words and do good deeds. Zoroaster was a pure vegetarian and in respect for all life, He forbade animal sacrifice. He also prophesied an ultimate Savior of the world who would come at a future time to restore a Heavenly existence on Earth. “Sad Dar,” which means “Hundred Doors,” is a Persian book that offers 100 chapters of guidelines within Zoroastrian teachings.

“Because, in our religion, they call this a breach of promise, and in revelation it decrees, as to anyone who commits a breach of promise, that the way to Heaven becomes closed for him, and that person himself goes discomforted out of this world, so that a warning becomes quite manifest unto him.”

“The twenty-seventh subject is this, that is, if any affair comes forward, that they should thoroughly understand whether it be a good work, or a sin. In that manner it becomes better that they make an evasion on the spot, until a time when they make it known with accuracy that that affair is a sin or a reward. If they perform any affair without knowing this, although it be a good work, it becomes a sin for them. For it is declared in revelation, that, except that which they inquire of the high-priests, no affair whatever is proper to perform.”

“The twenty-ninth subject is this, that, when they provide any munificence or liberality, it is necessary that they provide it for the worthy; and one is to consider thus: ‘Is this person, to whom I am giving this thing, worthy or not?’ Therefore it is necessary to make an effort, so that they may not give to the unworthy. For in revelation, as regards that person who provides any munificence for the unworthy, they call it a vain work and a gift without advantage; and day by day it is the punishment and torment of that person.”

“The thirty-first subject is this, that, every time they eat bread, it is necessary to withhold three morsels from their own bodies, and to give them to a dog. And it is not desirable to beat a dog. For, of the poor no one whatever is poorer than a dog, and it is necessary to give a tethered animal bread, because the good work is great.”