Yasna
The Yasna (meaning “worship” or “sacrifice”) is the primary liturgical text of Zoroastrianism, consisting of 72 chapters (Hâiti). It is recited during the Yasna ceremony, the chief act of Zoroastrian worship.
The Gathas (Yasna 28-53)
The Gathas are 17 hymns composed by Zoroaster (Zarathushtra) himself — the oldest surviving Indo-Iranian religious texts:
| Gatha | Chapters | Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| Ahunavaiti | 28-34 | ”Of Good Choice” — cosmic dualism, two primal spirits |
| Yasna Haptanhaiti | 35-42 | ”Seven-Chapter Yasna” — ancient prose liturgy |
| Ushtavaiti | 43-46 | ”Possessing Happiness” — Zoroaster’s vision of Ahura Mazda |
| Spentamainyu | 47-50 | ”Of the Holy Spirit” — the Holy Spirit’s role in creation |
| Vohu-Khshathra | 51 | ”Of Good Dominion” — the coming good kingdom |
| Vahishtoishti | 53 | ”Of Best Righteousness” — wedding hymn |
Saoshyant — The World Saviour
The concept of the Saoshyant (Saviours/Benefactors) runs through the Gathas:
- Yasna 29.6: Ahura Mazda appoints the Saoshyant
- Yasna 33.6: The Saoshyant will perfect the world
- Yasna 43.3: The world renovation (Frashokereti) is promised
- Yasna 48.9: When will the Saoshyant’s wisdom prevail?