Examining history, it is quite clear that the ancient Zoroastrians did not follow the dakhmenashini system nor did Prophet Zoroaster prescribe it. There is no mention of dakhma in the Gathas or in any other ancient scriptures, except in the Vendidad which elaborates on hygiene and maintenance of dakhmas.
In the prehistoric period, corpses were carried to nearby hills and placed on a southern slope. Clothes, armor, ornaments, etc were removed from the corpse to facilitate its fast decomposition. The bones were collected, placed in a box or vessel known as an astodan or ossuary.
In case of disasters like wars,......