Zoroastrianism for Kids
This month for the Global Learning for Kids series from Multicultural Kid Blogs we are focusing on Iran, a country very dear to my heart! Last year for the World Cup for Kids project, we were on Team Iran, publishing several posts on this beautiful country, including children’s books about Iran, Persian-inspired summer treats, and a lesson in Iranian geology using play dough!
So this year I thought we’d take a different perspective by focusing on Iran’s contribution to the world’s spiritual heritage; specifically I was curious to learn more about Zoroastrianism, one of the world’s oldest monotheistic religions.
Zarathustra, known to the Greeks as Zoroaster. Source: http://omnionica.wikispaces.com/Zoroaster
The principal religion on ancient Persia (modern-day Iran), it was founded in more than 3000 years ago by the Prophet Zarathustra, known to the Greeks as Zoroaster. (Estimates of the dates vary greatly). Zoroastrianism emphasizes the battle between good and evil in the world. Each individual is believed to have the free will to choose between these two forces. Contrary to popular belief, Zoroastrians do not worship fire; rather, it is a sacred symbol of purification.
Central fire at Zoroastrian shrine near Baku
Source: https://www.flickr.com/photos/apothecary/5921216114/
Though their numbers are relatively small today, Zoroastrian communities are thriving, and their influence on world history is significant. Several of the great empire builders of Persia were Zoroastrians, and it is believed that the Magi from the Christian nativity were Zoroastrians as well. Many scholars argue that Zoroastrianism had a substantial influence on the development of later monotheistic religions, namely Judaism and Christianity.
Faravahar, symbol of Zoroastrianism. Source: Walter S. Arnold, http://stonecarver.com/
Below are some of my favorite resources on Zoroastrianism for kids, including a video, websites, books, and even a comic!
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Zoroastrianism for Kids
This video is one of the only ones on Zoroastrianism I found aimed at young kids. It is a cute, animated, and short, covering all the basics of the religion.
For a great, hands-on activity, try this simple sacred fire jar craft from Highhill Education (a really great homeschool blog with very creative activities for kids!)
The Stone: A Persian Legend of the Magi
Zoroastrian Kids Korner is a fun site aimed at kids. It includes stories, crafts, and games, though the latter require previous knowledge of the religion in order to play. The author of the site has also published a book of prayers for children, My Little Book of Zoroastrian Prayers: With Some Fun Activities
Another site for kids is Zoroastrian Kids Place. It includes facts, stories, prayers, and a look at the animals of the Avesta!
A good reference book for older children is Zoroastrianism (World Religions (Facts on File))
And finally, I was so happy to discover a comic about the life of Zoroaster! Zarathushtra
Giveaway
Our giveaway runs through the month of August, so enter below for a chance to win! Some prizes have shipping restrictions. If the winner is outside of the shipping area of one of the prizes, that prize will then be included in the next prize package. (See our full giveaway rules).
Grand Prize
From Tuttle Publishing, The Complete Middle East Cookbook: Traditional recipes with clear instructions for the modern cook
From Medina Publishing, Discovering Islamic Art: A generously illustrated child’s guide to Islamic art, complete with activity sheets
From A Crafty Arab, Arabic Animal Alphabet Poster: Beautiful artwork with unique designs to teach Arabic letters
From Wisdom Tales Press, The Olive Tree (US shipping only): A beautiful tale of friendship set in Lebanon
1st Prize
From Tuttle Publishing, An Edible Mosaic: A cookbook of favorite Middle Eastern recipes
From Wisdom Tales Press, The Compassionate Warrior: Abd el-Kader of Algeria (US shipping only): Fascinating biography of Emir Abdel Kader, heroic 19th century leader and a pioneer in interfaith dialogue
From Wisdom Tales Press, The Green Musician (US shipping only): A magical story of patience and determination, adapted from the original Persian tale
From GeoToys, Geo Puzzle Africa and the Middle East (US contiguous states shipping only): Jumbo sized puzzle for ages 4 and up
2nd Prize
From Chicago Review Press, Kid’s Guide to Arab American History (US shipping only): Award-winning guide to the diversity of Arab American experience, with fun extension activities and biographies of famous Arab Americans
From Wisdom Tales Press, The Knight, the Princess & the Magic Rock (US shipping only): A retelling of a legendary Persian tale of heroism and love.
From Salaam Designs, 4 piece Holiday Cookie Cutter set (US shipping only): boxed set: Boxed set perfect for Ramadan and Eid includes Crescent, Star, Ramadan lantern (Fanoos), & Mosque.
-3 Comments-
Interesting Article! Will bookmark it for later use!
Thank you so much! Hope it is useful!
[…] The Stone: A Persian Legend of the Magi is a great book to teach children about the connections between religions, in this case Zoroastrianism and Christianity. The Stone is the Persian legend – as told to Marco Polo – of the three Magi who brought gifts to Jesus and the mysterious gift they received in return. (Find more resources to teach kids about Zoroastrianism). […]