CENTRAL ASIAN EXPRESSIONS OF ZOROASTRIANISM

This chapter examines the religious beliefs and cultic practices of pre-Islamic Sogdiana, Bactria, and Chorasmia, considering the extent to which they may be regarded as expressions of Zoroastrianism. Rather than offering a definitive classification, it identifies specific features that indicate affinities with Zoroastrian tradition. Although the Old Avestan texts originated in Central Asia, Zoroastrianism, as a structured religious system, was introduced under Achaemenid rule and left a lasting imprint. In contrast to developments in Persia, later religious practices in these regions included the veneration of anthropomorphic deities of both Iranian and non-Iranian origin, with the goddess Nana particularly prominent. The fire cult, likely accompanied by Avestan liturgy, persisted until the Arab conquest.