dastur

Zoroastrian bishop

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June 25, 2026

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A dastur is a Parsi high priest in Zoroastrianism. The term originates from Persian. In Zoroastrianism, religious organization and practice saw significant developments during the Sasanian period, with a structured ecclesiastical system headed by a mobedan mobed (priest of priests). This period emphasized the fire cult and the worship of Ahura Mazda, with strong ties between religion and the state. Priests, or mobeds, were proficient in reading and interpreting sacred scriptures, performing duties similar to scribes and registrars. The religion's core dogma remained the opposition between good and evil spirits, with Ahura Mazda as the supreme deity.12

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Zoroastrianism
Priesthood
…of these functionaries is the dastūr, a kind of bishop, who directs and administers one or more important temples. Priesthood is hereditary, but all priests have to go through one or more ceremonies of investiture over and above those practiced by all the faithful.
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…of these functionaries is the dastūr, a kind of bishop, who directs and administers one or more important temples. Priesthood is hereditary, but all priests have to go through one or more ceremonies of investiture over and above those practiced by all the faithful.
Read More