THE POSITION OF THE ZOROASTRIAN RELIGION IN THE HISTORY OF AZERBAIJAN

Different religions and belief systems existed in Azerbaijan during different periods of history. Zoroastrianism (Magianism) occupied an important place among the religions spread on the territory of the ancient Azerbaijani states of Atropatena and Albania. This religion is associated with the name of its founder Zoroaster. Zoroastrianism has become one of the main religions not only in Azerbaijan, but also in Iran, Central Asia, India, and other areas. Zoroastrianism and related religious and philosophical systems undoubtedly had some influence on Judaism and Christianity. The teaching of Zoroastrianism is reflected in the Avesta. Avesta is one of the literary monuments and books considered sacred by the ancient peoples of Central Asia, including the ancestors of the Azerbaijani people. This book artistically reflects a number of aspects of the religious, moral, social, political, and philosophical views of the ancient population of our country. This religion, which retained its significance until the spread of Islam in Azerbaijan, can be called a manifestation of the centuries-old worldview of our people. These components are reflected in our traditions and national holidays. In modern times, the number of representatives of Zoroastrianism is very small. There are about 130,000 of them in the world.