Behdinan - Philosophical Concept | Alexandria
Behdinan: More than mere followers, the Behdinan of Zoroastrianism, often translated as "Those of the Best Religion," are a community shrouded in both steadfast faith and historical ambiguity. The term, while seemingly straightforward, invites a deeper inquiry: What constitutes the "best" religion, and who determines its authenticity? Misconceptions often paint them simply as Zoroastrian adherents, yet their identity holds nuances forged through centuries of religious evolution and resilience.
The earliest discernible usage of "Behdinan" emerges within Zoroastrian texts of the Sasanian period (224-651 CE), a tumultuous era marked by religious revival and standardization. Within the Denkard, a voluminous encyclopedia of Zoroastrian beliefs compiled during the 9th century based on earlier Sasanian sources, the concept of adhering to the "Den," or religion, is central. The historical context, rife with theological debates and political maneuverings, prompts the question: To what extent did the Sasanian dynasty shape the very definition of "Behdinan" to solidify its own Zoroastrian orthodoxy?
Over centuries, the interpretation of Behdinan has evolved, shaped by influential figures like the high priests of the Sasanian era who codified Zoroastrian law and doctrine. Later, as Zoroastrians faced persecution and conversion under Islamic rule, embracing the Behdinan identity became not just a matter of faith but an act of cultural and religious survival. The Bundahishn, or "Primal Creation," a Zoroastrian cosmogony written after the Islamic conquest of Persia, speaks eloquently of the Behdinan clinging to the faith of their ancestors. However, questions persist: How did Zoroastrian practices change in diaspora, and how did these changes impact the understanding of what it meant to be Behdinan?
The legacy of the Behdinan endures in Zoroastrian communities worldwide, from India to North America, where adherence to the faith is often entwined with a desire to preserve cultural identity. Contemporary reinterpretations often emphasize ethical living, social justice, and environmental stewardship as expressions of the "Best Religion." Yet, the fundamental questions remain: Can a label forged amidst ancient empires and religious strife adequately capture the diverse experiences of modern Zoroastrians, and what does it truly mean to be "of the Best Religion" in the 21st century?