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A Parsi woman at a fire altar
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A Parsi woman at a fire altar
A Parsi (Zoroastrian) Indian woman at a fire altar, worshipping Zoroaster Date: 1906
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Media ID 7230347
© Mary Evans Picture Library 2015 - https://copyrighthub.org/s0/hub1/creation/maryevans/MaryEvansPictureID/10430802
Altar Beliefs Ceremony Passages Sari Shawl Worship Wrap Zoroaster Zoroastrian Zoroastrianism
EDITORS COMMENTS
In this evocative black-and-white photograph, an elegant Parsi woman is seen deeply engrossed in worship at a traditional fire altar, or Atar, in India, circa 1906. Dressed in a beautiful white sari with intricate gold border and a red pallu (end piece) wrapped around her shoulders, she wears a shawl adorned with intricate embroidery, adding to her regal appearance. The woman's intense focus is on the flames before her, which represent the sacred fire of Zoroaster, the prophet and founder of the ancient Persian religion of Zoroastrianism. The ceremony taking place is likely the Yasna, a daily ritual where the sacred texts, or passages, are recited, and incantations are spoken over the fire. The woman's hands are placed in the traditional prayer position, with her thumbs touching the tips of her index fingers, symbolizing the connection between the worshipper and the divine. Zoroastrianism, one of the world's oldest monotheistic religions, emphasizes the importance of good thoughts, words, and deeds. The fire altar is a central element in Parsi worship, representing purity, truth, and the divine presence. The fire is kept burning constantly, and offerings of sandalwood, frankincense, and ghee (clarified butter) are added to it daily. This image offers a glimpse into the rich cultural heritage and spiritual practices of the Parsi community in India, preserving the essence of their ancient beliefs and traditions for future generations.
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