Speaking of ancient Iranian folkways, and how they could accept a foreign religion:
http://www.iranian.ws/cgi-bin/iran_news/exec/view.cgi/2/5190
I have read much about Zoroaster, and I believe he heavily influenced the early Christians and Jews. Many here know how totally unorthodox I am, so it won't shock you that I am beginning to think Zoroaster was indeed one of the early prophets. His ancient religion foretold of saviors, and many Zoroastrians believe one of those saviors is Christ. It is fascinating reading about the early west Asian and Egyptian religions, and how they are so closely connected with Judaism, Christianity and Islam. It looks to me like Zoroaster was the one to pave the way for monotheism, and peaceful living. Also instructive would be how the Jewish and Arabic Pagan religions gave way to what we have today. The Gnostics are an interesting case study, as well as another sect of Christianity (can't think of the name right now) in Egypt.
"The Gnostics are an interesting case study, as well as another sect of Christianity (can't think of the name right now) in Egypt."
Copts, I think you might mean.
And allow me to say that what you wrote about Zoraoster's influence on later religions is the most enlightened comment I have ever had the pleasure of reading.
Unfortunately IMO the arabic pagan religion plagiarized the Original Testament through the evil designs of mohammad and islam, the cult of death was the result.
I have saved the link you provided. Thanks.