I wonder what Achmadinejad and the Ayatollahs in Iran think about Zoroastrianism. On the one hand it’s an infidel religion, but on the other it’s part of what separated Persia from the rest of the Arab world and made it distinctive. I could imagine them taking some kind of pride in that. Or maybe not: I know they’ve driven Farsi underground, and if they are that contemptuous of the classical language of Persia, they probably feel the same about its religion.
I think I’manutjob and the Ayatollies are in two minds, like the rest of Iran. But they should rightly fear Zoroastrianism capturing the hearts and minds of patriotic Iranis
Persians are not arabs, and neither are Turks or Aghanis.
>>>”I wonder what Achmadinejad and the Ayatollahs in Iran think about Zoroastrianism.”<<<
They use Zoroastrianism & Zoroastrian cultural heritage of Iran in any way that suits them, both inside Iran as well as outside to foreigners & Iranian expats. They often try to mix Islam w/ Zoroastrian cultural celebrations, traditions & customs. Or, try to show how tolerant they (Islam) is by pointing out that Shia Imams accepted Norooz - kinda put a Shi’ite spin on it.
Tho, letting a moslem born Iranian convert to Zoroastrianism is a definite no no & will get you hanged or in prison, tortured until you denounce & renounce it. Also, “religious minorities” are not allowed to have or broadcast their own public radio or tv programs, where they can openly discuss their religious beliefs & teachings w/ wider moslem Iranians.