The Equality of Men and Women
Extremely unique in the history of religion (and the world in general) men and women are seen as spiritual equal in Zoroastrianism. This idea goes back to the Gathas where Zarathushtra frequently directs his teachings to all listening, both men and women, and even wishes for help from a ruler, be they a man or woman. The advice he gives to his youngest daughter on her wedding day remarkable highlights her wisdom, intelligence, and ability to chose, as well as her responsibility to chose a partner who will help her grow.
In later Zoroastrian tradition, women were still seen as equal to men and could hold positions of power. In ancient Iran as a whole, women could serve as warriors, own businesses, go on hunts, and move freely. After Alexander’s conquest and the period of Greek rule, a much stronger and oppressive form of Patriarchy took root in Iran, forcing women to need guardians, although they still had more rights than women in most places before the suffrage movement. After the Islamic conquest, the situation of women in Iran became much more dire. Full article coming soon.