On the concept of leadership and the office of Leader of the Zoroastrians (<i>hu-dēnān pēšōbāy</i>) in Abbasid Zoroastrianism

Abstract Like many other religions, Zoroastrianism frequently restructured its priestly organization during long history, largely because of the environmental changes to which it was exposed. A major shift in status – from being state religion Sasanian Empire holding only a minor position early Islamic period challenged Zoroastrian hierarchy authority. The Abbasid provided with an opportunity initiate new office, called hu-dēnān pēšōbāy “Leader Zoroastrians”. This article is first deal this office detail and scrutinizes concept leadership ( pēšōbāyīh ) Zoroastrianism. It sheds some light on structure investigates within overall religious organization. re-examines, moreover, evidence for officiating theologians at court Baghdad. Finally, searches parallels between that East-Syrian catholicos Jewish exilarch.