Culture of Tajikistan - Religion

Religion

Zoroaster, the prophet of Zoroastrianism, was born in the Balkh area (northern Afghanistan and Transoxania), and was possibly Bactrian (the partial ancestors of the Tajiks). Zoroastrianism had been adopted by Persian emperors as a state religion, and was practiced during the Samanid era in Central Asia, until being overrun by the Arabs. The Shahs of Somoni made Bukhara their residence and a focal point for art and science, as well as an administrative center. The personal interest and support of the Shahs in the arts and sciences, along with international trade, and the relatively stable political situation in the Silk-Road region, all contributed to Tajik art and science at its zenith.

The largest celebration to come from the pre-Islamic period is Navruz, which means "New Day". It is held on March 21 or 22, when the cultivation of the land starts. During Navruz, many families visit relatives, throw out old belongings, clean the house, and play field games. Special dishes are also served. Other pre-Islamic Tajik traditions like fire jumping, dancing round the fire, and fighting 'devils' with fire, still occur in the more remote regions.

Tajikstan's government has shown intolerance of some religious faiths, such as Jehovah's Witnesses, and has demolished religious buildings.