What does Zoroastrianism combine?
It combines a cosmogonic dualism and eschatological monotheism in a manner unique [...] among the major religions of the world"
What are the most important texts of the religion called?
Avesta
who's writings does it include?
the writings of Zoroaster known as the Gathas
When do it's roots possibly date to?
the second millennium BCE
to which Iranian prophet does it's teachings ascribe to?
Zoroaster (or Zarathustra)
When did it serve as the state religion of the pre-Islamic Iranian empires?
from around 600 BCE to 650 CE
When was it suppressed?
the 7th century onwards
What diety does it exalt?
Ahura Mazda ("Wise Lord")
What is the current number of Zoroastrians estamated?
around 190000
How many gods does Zoroastrianism beleive in?
one
What is the contesting force to Ahura Mazda called?
Angra Mainyu
Are there any major features of Zoroastrianism?
yes
Like what?
messianism, heaven and hell, and free will have
What are some religion sytems beleived to be influenced by these?
Second Temple Judaism, Gnosticism, Christianity, and Islam.