Precepts vs. practices

Books abound on Asho Zarathushtra and his teachings. Zarathushtra the Ancient Iranian Mystic is yet another, but one with a difference. Mostly, we come across treatises written by scholars for scholars. A lay person finds it virtually impossible to plod through abstruse concepts and ponderous dissertations. Dotiwala’s work is smooth and crisp using simple language making it ideal for school and college students who are often in the dark about the spiritual precepts of the Prophet Zarathushtra, as are many grown-ups. Most of the time, our youngsters are fed on a feeble diet of myths and miracles, and rarely learn about the man and his mind. Most of the spiritual concepts are lucidly explained in this book and can be easily understood. This is the hallmark of a good writer.

Dinyar Dotiwala: refreshing approach

The author studied Avesta and Pahlavi under the guidance of the unpretentious and yet the learned Zoroastrian scholars Ervads (Dr) Ramiyar Karanjia and Parvez Bajan. Dotiwala is an initiate of the mystical path of his guru, Master Hazur Charan Singh Maharaj. The inspiration of this master has enabled corroboration between the philosophy of the perfect Masters and the divine message of Asho Zarathushtra. He has been inspired by great scholars like Kavasji Edalji Kanga, Kavi Ardesher F. Khabardar and Dr Irach J. S. Taraporewala, of whom he says that although not an initiate of a perfect Master of his time, his understanding of the Gathas is unique and befitting that of a highly evolved soul. Of the Gathas Taraporewala writes, "Here it is that we find Asha (the divine plan or law) as the very keystone of this structure.”
Dotiwala introduces the concepts of Mazdayasna, the cosmic plan, the law of karma, dualism, Asha, Srosh, the living Master and the aim of life. He boldly goes on to say, "There appears to be a lot of divergence between Asho Zarathushtra’s teachings and the religious practices carried out in the name of Zoroastrianism today. The divine precepts have been completely forgotten and replaced by rituals and propitiations of various Yazds — the adorable angels.” In the present time and age when ethics, morals, values and honor are at a premium, the chapter on "The Righteous Ones and The False Ones” is very enlightening. Dotiwala’s approach to the subject is interesting and refreshing. Zarathushtra The Ancient Mystic will be a good addition to one’s personal library.