– Er. Zarrir Bhandara –

Throughout history, humanity has sought guidance to navigate life’s trials, moving from darkness to light, in search of wisdom and clarity. The teachings of Zarthost Saheb offer a timeless beacon, illuminating the path with principles of Good Thoughts, Good Words, and Good Deeds. Rooted in truth, righteousness, and the battle against darkness or ignorance, our Zarthosti wisdom inspires us to dispel negativity and embrace a life of purpose and harmony. This journey from darkness to brightness is not just spiritual but practical, empowering us to cultivate kindness, resilience, and a deeper understanding of the world and our place within it.

Life is a continuous journey of growth, a constant evolution, a movement from darkness to brightness, from ignorance to enlightenment. This transformative process is deeply rooted in the teachings of Zoroastrianism, as under:

The Ahunavar and Spiritual Integrity

The Ahunavar, or our ‘Yatha Ahu Vairyo’ prayer emphasizes the interconnectedness of worldly actions and spiritual integrity. Performing good deeds and helping the virtuous is seen as honoring Ahura Mazda. “Ahu” represents Ahura Mazda, the spiritual lord, while Zarathustra is our spiritual guide in the physical world.

The Meaning of ‘Guru’

‘Guru’ is derived from Sanskrit words ‘Gu’ (darkness/ignorance) and ‘Ru’ (illumination/wisdom). Thus, a guru guides us from darkness to brightness through wisdom and intelligence. Chanting the Yatha Ahu Vairyo prayer facilitates and empowers this transition.

Compassion as Illumination

Compassion is not merely about charity or philanthropy. It is about recognizing our shared humanity. It’s the light within us reaching out to illuminate the darkness in others. Offering assistance enriches both, the giver and the receiver, creating a ripple effect of goodness.

Responsibility for Actions

We must take responsibility for both – our positive and our negative outcomes. The ‘Diva no Namaskar’ prayer ritual involves taking an inventory of thoughts, words and deeds. Holding the ‘Gireban’ of the sudreh during this prayer symbolizes storing and reflecting upon our actions. This practice is a like spiritual check and balance system.

The Significance of Hand Gestures in Prayer

The debate about uplifted versus joined hands in prayer is addressed. In the Yasna ceremony, priests join their hands, signifying surrender to Ahura Mazda. The joining of hands is also explained by the polarity of the body. Our bodies have right and left sides and accordingly, Ida and Pingala nerve channels. These create an electromagnetic field. Joining hands neutralizes this polarity, creating a balanced space.

Touching the ‘Gireban’ at the sternum stimulates the Vagus nerve, triggering the release of all positive hormones – namely dopamine, serotonin, endorphins and oxytocin. Brainwaves thus shift to an alpha rhythm, which is conducive to meditation, thus creating a focused state, enabling heartfelt prayer. Uplifting hands is used in prayers such as Tandarosti, symbolising that we are in a receptive state.

Inner Wisdom and the ‘Third Eye’

The Gathas speak of seeing Ahura Mazda within, the ‘third eye’ (Spentomad Gatha), representing inner wisdom and spiritual insight. It is accessible to those who work on cultivating compassion and clarity. Connecting with our deepest selves allows us to glimpse the divine within.

Sarosh Yazad and Continuity

Sarosh Yazad is ‘Salare Damane Ahura Mazda’, or the Commander-in-Chief. Prayers and rituals begin with Sarosh Yazad, symbolizing continuity in life and beyond. Invoking Sarosh Yazad involves reciting daily prayers and chanting the powerful Gathas.

The Airyamana Prayer as a Gathic Summary

The Airyamana prayer is presented as a summary of the five Gathas. It is described as powerful, victorious and capable of removing all afflictions. Quoting Kavasji Edulji Kanga, the prayer is highlighted as, “the best amongst the Holy Spell of the five Gathas.” Yasna 53 is the last Gatha, and Yasna 54 is the Airyema-Ishyo prayer.

The Path to Enlightenment

The journey from darkness to brightness is a continuous process. By practicing compassion, taking responsibility, and connecting with inner wisdom, we illuminate our path.