The Zoroastrian sacred fire that has been burning for 1500 years
Yazd, the headquarters of Ming Cult in Jin Yong's novels, is also the center of the Zoroastrianism, the state religion of the Persian Empire. Known as the city of windcatchers, it is home to the World Heritage-listed qanat system, ancient Silk Road stations, and a millennium of cultural heritage deeply integrated into this old city...
There are currently three sacred fires remaining in Iran, the most famous of which is located in the Zoroastrian temple in Yazd. No matter how time passes, the sacred fire never extinguishes, and the faithful have been worshipping it continuously.
For this reason, Zoroastrianism is not only the sacred fire order of Ming Cult in 'The Heaven Sword and Dragon Saber' but also one of the world's earliest monotheistic religions.
The beast god of Zoroastrianism is its founder, Zoroaster. This symbol, resembling an eagle, can be seen everywhere in Iran, from museums to coffee shops. Its wings, one in front and one behind, represent the past and the future, good and bad, virtue and evil; the three layers of wings symbolize good thoughts, good words, and good deeds, all of which are indispensable; the circular covenant in the middle represents the eternal cycle of life; the forward-striding posture admonishes people to always look ahead.
This is the embodiment of goodness, symbolizing the rejection of all evil thoughts, words, and deeds, and the move towards the light. I really like this meaning. Later, when I was shopping, I saw a pendant and decisively bought it as a reminder to myself to maintain my original intention and to think, speak, and act kindly.
The culture of Yazd is ancient and splendid. Perhaps it is its mysterious veil that makes it all the more unforgettable, truly a place that haunts one's dreams.