Mazdakism
Definition
Mazdakism was a dualist religion traced back to Zaradust-e Khuragan and promoted by Mazdak of Fasa in Iran during the late fifth and early sixth centuries. Though details of its doctrines are sparse, Mazdakism is often regarded as a reformative movement within Manichaean or Zoroastrian traditions.
Core Teachings
The religion advocated for a number of radical social reforms including:
- Vegetarianism: Emphasizing a diet devoid of meat.
- Pacifism: Promoting non-violence and peace.
- Anticlericalism: Opposing the established religious clerical authorities.
- Abolition of Private Property: Supporting communal ownership over individual property.
Historical Context
Mazdakism was perceived as a significant threat to the socio-religious order of its time. The movement faced stiff opposition from entrenched Zoroastrian authorities and by the eighth century, it was largely eradicated as an organized movement.
Etymology and Translations
- Etymology: The term “Mazdakism” originates from Mazdak, the most prominent leader and propagator of this doctrine. “Mazdak” possibly means “big, strong, or great” in Middle Persian.
- Arabic Translation: مزدكية (Mazdakia)
- Turkish Translation: Mazdakizm
Suppression
Due to its radical social and religious implications, Mazdakism faced severe suppression:
- By Zoroastrian Authorities: Both religious and political Zoroastrian institutions saw Mazdakism as a challenge to the existing order.
- Eventual Elimination: Systematic efforts to extinguish the movement ultimately led to its disappearance by the eighth century.
Suggested Books for Further Study
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Mazdak, the Manichaean Law and Other Studies by Mary Boyce
- An influential work that deals in detail with the doctrinal aspects and historical impact of Mazdakism.
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The World of Late Antiquity by Peter Brown
- This book situates Mazdakism within the broader religious and socio-political context of Late Antiquity.
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The Spirit of Zoroastrianism by Prods Oktor Skjærvø
- Provides insights into Zoroastrian doctrines and the challenges posed by movements like Mazdakism.
Takeaways
- Historical Significance: Mazdakism underscores early reformative tendencies within established religious traditions.
- Radical Social Reforms: Ideas about communal property and anticlericalism have appeared periodically in world history.
- Persecution and Extinction: The suppression of Mazdakism highlights the clash between orthodoxy and reformist ideologies.
Conclusion
Mazdakism reflects an important, albeit brief, chapter in Iran’s religious history. Its progressive social reforms and the reaction it provoked offer key lessons about the dynamics of religious and socio-political change.
inker with the original beliefs in meaningful ways. Despite its ultimate suppression, the radical ideas of Mazdakism provide a fascinating glimpse into attempts at socio-religious reform long predating modern examples.
