The Environment
Zoroastrians believe Ahura Mazda created the world so people, therefore, have a duty to care for it. This, they claim, makes them the first environmentalists. Although creation (Bundahishn) is assaulted by the forces of evil causing suffering, decay and death, it nevertheless remains ‘the Good Creation’ and people have a duty to enjoy it.
Traditionally Zoroastrians have eaten meat, although some Parsis have at least avoided beef and others become vegetarians as a mark of respect to the Hindu culture in which they lived. However, this is a recent development as it was believed that Ohrmazd created everything for a purpose, with the purpose of cattle being to feed humans.