Parsee in Iran

Zoroaster was a Parsee, said to be born between 1,200 and 1,500 BC in northeast Iran. He rejected the polytheistic worship of his culture and believed in worshipping only the creator God (Ahura Mazda), and he believed that Angra Mainyu (the devil) caused people to commit evil deeds. He believed that when people died, they would go to heaven or hell. They keep a fire burning in their temples as a symbol of Ahura Mazda's wisdom, brightness and power. Their scriptures are the Avesta, which contains doctrines, hymns and prayers. The magi and Persian kings like Cyrus and Darius were probably believers in Ahura Mazda. Today Parsees who live in Iran, primarily in Tehran, experience persecution that has forced many to worship in secret.

Ministry Obstacles

It is hard to reach someone who is hiding. Zoroastrian followers are often isolated and do not identify themselves for fear of persecution from the Shia Muslim majority.

Outreach Ideas

Strong friendship between Iranian Parsees and followers of Christ can potentially develop trust and allow believers to share what faith in the resurrected Christ can do for all of us.

Scripture Focus

"Before I formed you in the womb I knew you, and before you were born I consecrated you; I appointed you a prophet to the nations."  Jeremiah 1:5

Scripture Prayer

Pray for the Lord to thrust out many prophets from every nation to every nation in the 2020s.

Prayer Focus

Pray for a powerful movement to Christ among Iran's Parsees. Pray for Iranian believers to reach out to their Parsee neighbors.