The Parsis are a jolly people who enjoy the good things in life. We believe in feasting, not fasting. We observe no days of eating ghas phus (purely plant based food), for even on the hamkaras (days of special significance, when meat is not eaten) the consumption of fish and even two-legged birds is not forbidden. Let us take a toast to the happy-go-lucky Parsi Zoroastrian community!
Unlike other prophets, Zarathushtra lived a family life spreading the message of Ahura Mazda and awakening the hearts of his devotees. No wonder the Zoroastrian religion is so unique, and yet so practical.
Sharing the same God, the same religion and the same holy books, we lived like an extended family, loving and caring for one another. Our affluent ancestors shared their fortune with their less fortunate brethren making life comfortable for all. It saddens our hearts witnessing a strong divide today between the fanatic orthodox and the impatient reformists.
Every religion has its base in spiritual philosophy along with some customs and traditions. A decline comes when customs and traditions predominate over spiritual philosophy, leading religion to fanaticism. Customs and rituals dissolve, disappear and change with time, but the religious philosophy of ashoi (righteousness), the trilogy of humata, hukhta and hvrashta (good thoughts, good words and good deeds), the pillars of our religion, will survive for eternity.
Whether we call ourselves orthodox or reformists, we all are proud Parsi Zoroastrians. On the auspicious occasion of the New Year let us free ourselves from past hurts, outdated beliefs and unpleasant experiences and move to a bright and radiant future full of hope and harmony.
Let the New Year bring a message of love, peace and understanding. We must understand the basic rules for bringing peace and happiness in our community:
Treat others as you wish yourself to be treated. We can then sense and feel universal and unconditional love for all.
Work for the happiness of others. Happiness comes to those who bring happiness to others.
Whether we share our religious beliefs or not, we depend upon each member of the community, not just for survival, but to thrive and prosper. Unity is the need of the hour.
Those in possession of power should not impose their judgment on others as it leads to anger, hurt and resentment, causing strife and conflicts.
It is always the right time to forgive. This will not only benefit and empower us but guide us to new levels of building relationships and experiencing peace.
Disagree, but do not disrespect. Lack of respect for others causes bitterness and diminishes our own status as human beings.
Keep an open mind. Always be ready to understand another’s point of view. Perhaps we may find new levels of understanding, new concepts and philosophy from others.
A sure and simple way to bring peace and harmony would be to develop a culture that allows everyone to follow their chosen spiritual and religious path without hindrance, harassment and oppression. We can then create a better world for ourselves and for our children.
May we use religious principles to become more peaceful and more compassionate. The essential thing in religion is making the heart pure. May the New Year bring fresh joys and peace for our beloved community! May we experience the warmth of togetherness and prosperity too! PIROJA HOMI JOKHI
piroja.jokhi@yahoo.com