Are There Zoroastrians Still Living in Iran?

Yes, there are still Zoroastrians living in Iran. Despite significant declines in their population over the years due to emigration and religious persecution, this ancient community remains one of the oldest religious groups in the country.

Current Population and Distribution

According to estimates as of August 2023, there are around 25,000 to 30,000 Zoroastrians living in Iran. They are primarily concentrated in cities like Yazd and Kerman. Each of these cities has a vibrant Zoroastrian community that continues to practice their faith and celebrate traditional festivals. However, like many minority groups, they face various challenges regarding religious freedom and social acceptance.

The Iranian Religious Landscape

After the Islamic Revolution, most Iranians officially identify as Muslims. However, the religious makeup of Iran is more diverse. Surveys vary in their findings. The official 2011 Iranian government census showed almost all Iranians believing in Islam (99.98%). A 2020 survey by the World Values Survey found 96.6% identifying as Muslim. Another survey by GAMAAN in 2020 found that only about 40% of Iranians identify as Muslim. This discrepancy highlights the sensitivity and complexity surrounding religious identity in the country.

Challenges and Persecution

Zoroastrians in Iran face various challenges, including severe restrictions on the practice and teaching of their religion. There is often discrimination and sometimes persecution. For example, the Yezidis, who are often mistaken for Zoroastrians, are sometimes referred to as "devil worshippers" by some Iranians. During Saddam Hussein's rule in Iraq, Yezidis were subjected to unspeakable cruelty.

While Zoroastrianism is officially recognized in Iran, they have a seat in Parliament, there are severe restrictions on religious practice. This sometimes leads to emigration, and losses due to deaths and intermarriage contribute to a declining active religious community.

Community and Culture

Despite these challenges, the Zoroastrian community in Iran has managed to maintain its cultural heritage. Many continue to practice their faith and celebrate traditional festivals, such as the New Year festival Nowruz. The city of Yazd, known as the "City of Shadows," has a significant Zoroastrian population and is a hub for Zoroastrian activities.

Conversion and Decline

The process of conversion to other religions, particularly Islam, has been ongoing since the early centuries of the Islamic conquest in 650 CE. Historical and economic factors, such as discrimination, economic advantages, and intermarriage, have led to large-scale conversion. From 1880 to 1925, a portion of the Zoroastrian community also converted to the Baha'i Faith.

Within Iran, most Zoroastrians continue to be reluctant to intermarry outside their community, leading to a gradual decline in adherents. This is a similar trend observed in the Zoroastrian diaspora in India, where the Parsis population has also seen a decline due to intermarriage and secularization.

Conclusion

In conclusion, while the Zoroastrian community in Iran is small and faces various challenges, it remains an integral part of the country's rich cultural tapestry. Despite significant declines and the ongoing tension with religious and cultural practices, the Zoroastrian community continues to maintain its heritage and traditions.