GOOD THOUGHTS, GOOD WORDS, GOOD DEEDS

A psychotherapist introduces readers to the fundamentals of Zoroastrianism in this nonfiction work.

The difference between humans and other living creatures, says Moterassed, is that humanity has “the choice to decide for themselves what to do and where to go.” Fundamentally, in other words, humans have the unique ability to choose to do either good or bad. In this introductory primer on the ancient teachings of Zoroastrianism, the author emphasizes the religion’s underlying philosophy: “good thoughts, good works, and good deeds.” It first begins with a chapter-long exploration of the definition of goodness and notes that ethics sometimes differ across religions (particularly on sexuality) and that modern notions often conflate good living with materialism and social hierarchies. Ancient Persian prophet Zarathustra, however, equated goodness with wisdom and “consciousness (pure mind) in a person’s life.” While careful not to denounce other faith traditions—extoling, for instance, the values and morals of Jews, Christians, and Muslims—Moterassed stresses that Zoroastrianism is “not about following a rigid set of rules.” Zarathustra’s emphasis, alternately, lies on “awareness, authenticity, and spontaneity,” giving his followers a formula that empowers them to make good choices in various situations. The book also highlights the universalism of Zoroastrianism, claiming that Jesus, Buddha, and Lao Tzu didn’t need religious codes; they too had awakened to their innate consciousness guided by love. A psychotherapist who has taught meditation courses for more than 30 years, Moterassed is particularly adept at making one of the world’s oldest monotheistic religions applicable to a modern audience. Comprising three short chapters, and coming in at just under 70 pages, this is an accessible book that doesn’t overwhelm readers with complex theological analysis. Instead, it carefully balances its survey of Zoroastrianism with an engaging writing style and pragmatic advice. Accompanying the text is a glossary of Avestan phrases still used by Zoroastrians, as well as ample full-color, high-resolution illustrations, charts, and images.

An enlightening, gorgeous guidebook to an ancient faith.