History of the Parsis : including their manners, customs, religion and present position : with coloured and other illustrations : in two volumes

CHAP. IV.] A FOREIGNER’S OPINION. 205

ment; (5) truth; (6) obedience; (7) keeping water and fire free from impurities; (8) killing of noxious creatures ; (9) tending of sheep ; (10) making desolate places prosperous; (11) irrigation; (12) teaching; (13) intercession and mediation for friends.

We will finish this brief survey of the theology and speculative and moral philosophy taught by the Zend - Avesta of the Parsis by quoting the opinions of two unprejudiced European authors of known reputation in this branch of Oriental literature, as to what Parstism truly is. Anquetil du Perron, the celebrated Frenchman, who was the first European who examined the Zend-Avesta, is an able illustrator of the Parsi faith. His extensive acquaintance with the facts of the system which he has unfolded is a sufficient guarantee of the weight to be attached to his opinions.

In his Critical View of the Theological and Ceremonial System of Zarthosht he says: “The first point in the theological system of Zoroaster is to recognise and adore the Master of all that is good, the Principle of all righteousness, Hormazd, according to the form of worship prescribed by him, and with purity of thought, of word, and of action, a purity which is marked and preserved by purity of body, which must always accompany it, and which is found only in entire submission to the law of Zoroaster. Next, to

have a respect, accompanied with gratitude, for the