The future savior

"Ecological devastation is taking place all over the world… A Zoroastrian who is a co-worker with Ahura Mazda has to bear a very heavy responsibility in nurturing and healing the planet in various ways, and thus preparing the world for the future savior,” Dr Homi Dhalla stated at an international interfaith seminar organized by the Consulate General of the Islamic Republic of Iran in cooperation with the All India Religious Leaders Association at Hyderabad on June 15, 2014. The Parsi Zoroastrian Anjuman of Secunderabad and Hyderabad (PZASH) invited Dhalla to express the Zoroastrian view, mentions J. D. Batliwalla, honorary secretary of PZASH in a write-up sent to Parsiana.

Dhalla focused on "The role of man and the coming of the future savior” under the overall theme of the seminar: "Awaited savior in various religions and their outlook about the future of the world.” In the Zoroastrian tradition, man is expected to uphold the law of Asha (righteousness), which is the cornerstone of the Prophet’s message. One should "tread the path of truth and be a spiritual soldier to fight against all forms of evil… A Zoroastrian is also endowed with a free will which expects him either to lead a righteous life and serve humanity or follow the evil path. Salvation of the soul does not take place after death but the process continues throughout life,” Dhalla explained, adding "at death the soul is judged by its deeds. No soul is eternally punished for the sins it has committed because Ahura Mazda is kind, forgiving and merciful.”
Accounts of the final renovation of creation differ in different Zoroastrian texts, Dhalla revealed. It is called Patvandishn i o Frashkart (continuous evolution towards the renovation) which will lead to the total destruction of evil. "Every person has a part to play in this eschatological drama by being a helper to the creator, Ahura Mazda. In the millennium of saoshyans (future savior)… matter and spirit are finally made one and… the essence of resurrected life is harmony and concord… suffused with light and a mutual love centered in God,” Dhalla explained.
The world today is beset with manmade problems and there is a need for dialog between religions to create peace and understanding.