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Can the principles of Good Thoughts, Good Words, Good Deeds transform our modern lives?
In our tumultuous world, filled with division and misinformation, the ancient Zoroastrian principle of Humata, Hukhta, Huvarshta (Good Thoughts, Good Words, Good Deeds) stands out as a moral compass. Originating from Prophet Zarathushtra’s teachings, this trio promotes righteousness, harmony, and compassion. Dr Ramiyar Karanjia explained this concept beautifully: “According to the Zoroastrian religion, when they say “good thoughts,” it goes one step deeper and suggests that a good thought is the very thought that God had at the time of creating the universe.” He also defined “good deeds” in the Zoroastrian context as “All deeds that ultimately lead humanity to final liberation are good deeds.”
In our tumultuous world, filled with division and misinformation, the ancient Zoroastrian principle of Humata, Hukhta, Huvarshta (Good Thoughts, Good Words, Good Deeds) stands out as a moral compass. Originating from Prophet Zarathushtra’s teachings, this trio promotes righteousness, harmony, and compassion. Dr Ramiyar Karanjia explained this concept beautifully: “According to the Zoroastrian religion, when they say “good thoughts,” it goes one step deeper and suggests that a good thought is the very thought that God had at the time of creating the universe.” He also defined “good deeds” in the Zoroastrian context as “All deeds that ultimately lead humanity to final liberation are good deeds.”
Humata aligns with Ahura Mazda’s vision for an evil-free cosmos, serving as a psychological boon. Positive thinking can improve mental health, reduce stress, and extend life expectancy. By fostering benevolent thoughts, we nurture peace within ourselves. Diya Shroff, a devout Zoroastrian, incorporates these principles daily. “Humata influences my moral decisions and my interactions with the world,” Shroff explains. “Yasna 19 describes Humata as the divine thought aiming for a cosmos free from evil.”
Good Words (Hukhta) emphasizes speech’s power to heal or harm. In various settings, speech that uplifts and respects others enhances social bonds and well-being. Good Deeds (Huvarshta) urges actions that restore balance to creation. Acts of kindness and ethical behavior benefit both the giver and the receiver, exemplified by Zoroastrian philanthropy.
Social media’s rise has exacerbated misinformation and divisiveness. The Zoroastrian principle of Asha—divine law of truth—becomes crucial. Karanjia adds, “Asha is the divine order, but it also means truth. It also means righteousness. It also means piety. Now, in different places in the Avesta, the word is used in different contexts. The challenge in translation is deciding which meaning to use.” Shroff combats digital toxicity by fostering integrity online. “Yasna 31.11 states, ‘Let those who would spread falsehood be opposed by those who walk in the path of Asha,’ reinforcing our responsibility to counter lies with truth.”
From the philanthropic legacy of Zoroastrian business leaders to everyday acts of kindness, the principle of Huvarshta has a profound effect. Each small act of goodness can inspire others, creating a ripple effect that amplifies the impact of positive deeds. Reflecting on the broader implications of Asha, Shroff notes, “Asha extends beyond personal conduct to global ethics, leadership, and governance. Ahura Mazda is described in Yasna 44.10 as the embodiment of truth and justice, which suggests that leadership should be rooted in righteousness.”
The ancient Zoroastrian teachings of Humata, Hukhta, Huvarshta (Good Thoughts, Good Words, Good Deeds) can be seamlessly integrated into various aspects of daily life, influencing our personal, professional, and community interactions positively. Here’s how these principles can be applied across different scenarios:
Following the practical application of Zoroastrian principles, Karanjia offers a profound conclusion, “All religions teach goodness. Goodness, in that sense, is not a monopoly of the Zoroastrian religion. But what they have done is emphasise that goodness is necessary and important—perhaps the most important thing—to be good in our own hearts and for others.” This encapsulates the essence of the Zoroastrian ethical code of Humata, Hukhta, Huvarshta as not just a philosophical ideal, but a practical guide for a meaningful life. By embracing this triad, individuals and societies are steered towards a more harmonious existence. Each of us holds the power to shape a better future, one act of goodness at a time.
