Iran, a Land of Culture and Diversity
Historically and under Cyrus the Great, the king of the Achemenid empire and ruler of the largest empire at that point in history, the Persian empire was known to be a land of tolerance. Written after conquering Babylon in 539 B.C, the Cyrus Cylinder, also called the first charter of human right, gave the people of the region the right to choose their own religion. He allowed the Jews to return to their homelands and was a ruler known to avoid unnecassary bloodshed when possible during his conquest making him a popular ruler.
Iran today is home to multiple religions, Islam, christianity, zoroastriastrianism and judaïsm being some of them. Despite some challenges regarding the dress code, the population overall enjoy freedom of religion. Zoroastrism is considered to be the oldest religion in Iran and the first widespread monotehistic religion. The recognized minorities are also represented politically in Iran with 5 seats reservered in the parliement. Three seats for the Christians, one for the Zoroastrians and one for the Jews.
Iran, located in the heart of West Asia is a country with almost 10 neighbors and is home to multiple ethnic groups including Persians, Azerbaijanis, Kurds, Lurs, Baluchis but also Arabs, Turkmens and many others. This diversity and the tolerance shown by the early ruler Cyrus the Great, inspired political leaders like the founding father, Thomas Jefferson to govern a diverse country like United States as an ideal, wise and just ruler.
Author: Ali Dindar
Image source: Shoesyourpath.com - Iran Tehran Historical Capital