Zoroastrianism

Zoroastrianism is a monotheistic non-Christian religion originating from Persia. Despite once being a major world religion, it is now almost extinct and most remaining sects do not accept converts. It is speculated that it was the majority religion in Persia during the Jewish exile and may have borrowed ideas from Judaism.

Zoroastrians believe that their religion originated with the Prophet Zarathustra (also known as Zoroaster), and they affirm a scripture reportedly written by him called the Avesta. Though Zoroastrian tradition, and legends about Zarathustra, originate much earlier, the Avesta is thought to have been finalised in the 3rd century CE, and we have no manuscripts of it until the 13th century CE.

Zoroastrianism teaches that the world is a cosmic battle between good and evil, a view that influenced many other religions, including Gnosticism and Manicheaism. It also influenced Augustine of Hippo, who was once a Manichean before becoming a Christian.