Zarathushtra the First Environmentalist

"May good rulers, and not evil rulers, rule over us with actions of good understanding and serenity. Giving health and happiness in life is the best for a man who works for the living world in order to increase its splendor." Spenta Mainyu Gatha, song 13.5

Prophet Zarathushtra was the first environmentalist. He was the first to encourage people to protect all God's creations. More than 3500 years ago, Zarathushtra taught people to respect and preserve the living world for everyone to enjoy.

Because of Zarathushtra's teachings, the ancient Persians had much respect for the environment. They did not pollute earth, fire, wind, and water. The ancient Greeks noticed that Persians would not bathe, spit, or urinate in rivers or lakes for fear of polluting them.

In ancient Persia, cutting trees was a sin. The ancient Persians were among the first people who built gardens and parks. These gardens were known as paradiezos or "fenced parks." King Xerxes (486 BC-465 BC) loved a tree so much, he adorned it with jewelry and put a guard in charge of protecting it!

We should continue our ancient tradition of helping the environment. Thousands of years ago Zarathushtra promoted a peaceful, nurturing world for all animals, plants, and people. Let us listen to his Message and make the Earth a better place to live for everyone.