ABSTRACT
This chapter gives an overview of a central component of most Zoroastrian communal rituals in Iran: singing, dancing, and reciting poetry. It presents evidence for the crucial role played by poetry and music in all Zoroastrian communal gatherings, with many examples, some of which are here presented for a non-Persian speaking audience for the first time. The poetry is recited both in Persian and in the Behdini dialect. Modern Zoroastrian poets likewise have published their work in both languages. The poems are presented and discussed in the context of their primary ritual settings: pilgrimage, sofreh , solemn days, and community feasts.
