Problematické uzly diskuze o osové době: příklad zoroastrismu
The Problematic Aspects of Discussion about Axial Age: The Case of Zoroastrianism

Summary/Abstract: The article is discussing problematic aspects of Axial Age. To start with, there is a general description of Axial Age, followed by the illustration of its most important aspects, especially many cultural and spiritual changes which occurred in this period. In particular, one of the most problematic aspects is discussed – the case of zoroastrianism. The question whether zoroastrianism could be considered in the context of Axial Age is discussed. It is not clear at all whether it is new or transformed religion if what we know about Zarathustra’s teaching is really what he said. There is a strong uncertainty about this problematic aspect because of a lack of sources. Nevertheless, we can find significant links to zoroastrianism considered as part of Axial Age and Persia as axial civilization despite the absence of sources. The ethical and moral aspects of zoroastrianic idea are also emphasized because of the rise of new cultural ontology, new spiritual ways, new vision of world; thus, new ways of understanding world which lead to new rules of human behaviour and of social life not only in zoroastrianism but in Axial Age generally. These are the most important aspects of Zarathustra’s doctrine because as a prophet he established morality, decency, and ethic as a core parts of his main ideas which have to be expressed in good thoughts, good words and good deeds.

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