Er. Zarrir Bhandara shares timeless nuggets of wisdom from our Zoroastrian religion, exploring its spiritual insights, ethical teachings and relevance in today’s world. Whether drawn from the Gathas, sacred traditions, or the lived experiences of the Zoroastrian community, each piece of wisdom serves as a guiding light in the journey of life, continuing to inspire and illuminate. In our exclusive column, ‘Pearls Of Wisdom’, Er. Zarrir Bhandara answers your queries, shedding light on the enduring relevance of Zoroastrian wisdom for us all.

Questions From Our Readers:

Q: Which prayers or rituals are most important for seniors to recite and practise in our later years? (Shirzaad Bhathena, USA) 

Er. Zarrir: Dear Shirzaad, in our Zarathushti tradition, aging is viewed as a time of immense spiritual dignity. Zoroastrianism is a highly compassionate and practical faith. Hence, we must do our best as per our condition and situation. The later years of life are considered a deeply sacred phase. As we age, our focus must naturally shift from the material world (Getig) to the spiritual realm (Minog). While our physical bodies may slow down, our spiritual discipline must be at its absolute strongest.

Our ancient prayers are not merely words of comfort, they are Spenta Manthras – divine, beneficial vibrational sound formulas that create a literal spiritual shield (Kash) around the soul. In your later years, making these traditional prayers your absolute priority ensures that your soul is nourished, protected, and perfectly prepared for its eternal journey.

Here are the most vital traditional prayers and rituals for seniors to practice:

The Foundation – The Kusti Ritual: The tying of the Kusti is the ultimate badge of a Zarathushti and our primary armour against negative forces (Druj). As a senior, if possible, performing your Farajyat (obligatory prayers) with the Kusti ritual during the changing of the Gahs (times of day) is paramount. It purifies your aura and actively renews your unwavering vow to Ahura Mazda.

The Shield of the Soul – The Sarosh Yasht: This is perhaps the most critical prayer for later years. Sarosh Yazad is the divine guardian of the soul. He protects us while we live, and he is the divinity who receives and guides the soul during its transition into the next world. By reciting the Sarosh Yasht daily, you actively build a profound, lifelong connection with your spiritual guardian, ensuring peace and divine protection for your soul’s ultimate journey.

Spiritual Cleansing – The Patet Pashemani: In Zoroastrianism, we are encouraged to cleanse our souls of any accumulated spiritual debt (Gunah) before we return to our Maker. Reciting the Patet Pashemani (the prayer of repentance) is a beautiful practice. It’s a conscious, spiritual washing of the soul, ensuring that you stand before Ahura Mazda with a pure, light, and unburdened spirit.

The Supreme Light – Atash Nyayish: Tending to a divo (oil lamp) and reciting the Atash Niyayesh keeps you intimately connected to Asha (Cosmic Truth) and/or participating in Jashans and Humbandagis (even online). Sitting before the consecrated flame or your household divo and reciting these ancient vibrations strengthens the divine spark within, keeping your mind sharp, wise and devoted.

The Role of the Elder – Doa Tandoorasti: We consider elders as spiritual anchors. When you recite the Doa Tandoorasti for the health and prosperity of your children, grandchildren, and the global community, you act as a conduit for divine blessings. An elder’s prayer holds immense spiritual weight.

The Ultimate Truth: Make your prayers and rituals the priority in this season of your life. Through the power of the Manthras, everything – your anxieties, physical ailments and worldly concerns – will naturally fall into its rightful place, leaving your soul enveloped in divine peace!

(Er. Zarrir Bhandara is the Head Priest of the Zoroastrian Association of California Atash Kadeh and is a beacon of compassion with encyclopaedic knowledge on our Zoroastrian religion and scriptures. Readers are encouraged to mail in their queries to Er. Zarrir Bhandara at: zbhandara@gmail.com )