PARSIS
- The 10,000 Avestagenome Project is a research project that aims to sequence and analyze the genomes of 10,000 Zoroastrian-Parsi individuals.
- The project is being led by the Avesta Genome Project Consortium, which is a collaboration between scientists from India, the United States, and the United Kingdom
- The project is motivated by the fact that the Zoroastrian-Parsi population is a unique and isolated population with a rich genetic history. The project aims to use genomic data to learn more about the genetic basis of disease in the Zoroastrian-Parsi population, as well as to better understand the population's genetic history
- The 10,000 Avestagenome Project is a significant undertaking, but it has the potential to make important contributions to our understanding of human genetics and disease.
- The project's findings could help to improve the diagnosis and treatment of diseases that are common in the Zoroastrian-Parsi population, and they could also provide insights into the genetic basis of disease in other populations.
- The Parsis originally came from Persia to India in the 7th century CE, fleeing religious persecution in their homeland after the Muslim conquest of Persia.
- They settled primarily in the western Indian state of Gujarat and, later, in other parts of India, such as Mumbai (formerly Bombay)
- Parsis follow the Zoroastrian faith, which emphasizes the worship of one God (Ahura Mazda) and the practice of good thoughts, good words, and good deeds.
- They maintain Zoroastrian religious practices, including fire worship in temples known as "fire temples."
- Parsis traditionally spoke Gujarati, but over time, they adopted other languages such as English and Hindi. However, they continue to use a special form of Gujarati known as "Parsi Gujarati" in religious and community contexts
- Parsis have made significant contributions to Indian society in various fields, including business, industry, science, and the arts. Prominent Parsi figures include industrialist Jamsetji Tata, nuclear physicist Homi Bhabha, and musician Zubin Mehta
- Parsis have unique cultural practices and traditions, including the celebration of Navroze (New Year), the practice of rituals involving the sacred fire, and ceremonies related to life events such as birth, marriage, and death
- The Parsi community is relatively small, with a declining population due to low birth rates and emigration. Efforts are being made to encourage Parsis to marry within the community and adopt measures to stabilize and grow their population.
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Monotheism: Zoroastrianism is a monotheistic religion, emphasizing the worship of one supreme god known as Ahura Mazda, which translates to "Wise Lord" or "Lord of Wisdom." Ahura Mazda is believed to be the creator of the universe, the source of all goodness, and the embodiment of truth and righteousness.
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Dualism: Zoroastrianism introduces the concept of dualism, which posits the existence of two opposing forces in the universe—good and evil. Ahura Mazda represents the force of good, while Angra Mainyu (or Ahriman) represents the force of evil. The struggle between these two forces is a central theme in Zoroastrian thought.
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Fire Worship: Fire is considered a sacred symbol in Zoroastrianism, representing purity and divine light. Zoroastrian worship often involves fire rituals in special temples known as "fire temples," where a consecrated fire is kept burning continuously.
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Ethical Principles: Zoroastrianism places a strong emphasis on ethical conduct. Followers are encouraged to live by the three core principles of "Good Thoughts, Good Words, and Good Deeds." These principles guide moral behavior and emphasize the importance of ethical choices.
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Sacred Texts: The primary religious texts of Zoroastrianism are the "Avesta" and the "Zend-Avesta." The Avesta contains the hymns, prayers, and teachings attributed to Zoroaster, while the Zend-Avesta consists of commentaries and interpretations of the Avesta's teachings.
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Life After Death: Zoroastrianism teaches the belief in an afterlife. It is believed that individuals will be judged by their deeds upon death, and their souls will undergo a journey, which may lead to either heaven (paradise) or hell (the House of Lies) based on their moral choices.
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Community and Rituals: Zoroastrians gather in places of worship called "fire temples" and engage in rituals, prayers, and ceremonies. Some of the important ceremonies include Navroze (New Year), weddings, and funeral rites.
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Historical Significance: Zoroastrianism had a significant influence on the development of other major religions, including Judaism, Christianity, and Islam. Elements of Zoroastrian dualism and eschatology (end-time beliefs) can be found in these later faiths.
- The scheme seeks to encourage Parsi youth to get married and raise families. It provides financial incentives and support to young Parsi couples who wish to marry and start families
- "Jiyo Parsi" offers counseling and medical assistance to couples facing fertility issues. It also supports family planning services to help couples with family planning decisions.
- The scheme conducts awareness campaigns and outreach programs to educate Parsi community members about the importance of family life, fertility, and raising children
- "Jiyo Parsi" collaborates with research institutions to gather data and conduct research on demographic trends and issues affecting the Parsi community.
