Two significant philosophical perspectives on the afterlife are explored through the works of Zoroaster and Jean-Paul Sartre. This examination draws on Zoroastrianism’s ancient teachings and Sartre’s existential drama, “No Exit,” highlighting their insights into morality, judgment, and self-awareness.
Zoroastrianism: A Revolutionary Perspective on Morality
Having taught world religions for over 60 years, I find that each new discovery fuels my desire to learn more. Zoroaster, often considered the first monotheist, presents a unique view on the afterlife and morality that resonates through centuries. His teachings suggest that God embodies perfect goodness, which cannot inflict evil or punishment. This contrasts sharply with the more vengeful depictions of divinity found in other texts, such as Isaiah 45:7.
Zoroastrianism, which shares roots with Hinduism in what is now Afghanistan, emphasizes personal responsibility in moral conduct. The only direct mention of Zoroastrians in the Bible refers to the Wise Men, or Magi, who sought their own savior, Saoshyant. Instead, they found the infant Jesus. This connection highlights the intertwining of diverse religious traditions.
Scholars increasingly agree that Zoroaster lived around the 11th century BCE. His teachings on judgment emphasize that the consequences of one’s actions are self-inflicted. As stated in the Yasna, “Long-lasting darkness, ill food, and wailing — to such an existence shall your conscience lead you by your own deeds, O wicked ones” (Yasna 31:20). This concept of self-judgment permeates Zoroaster’s writings, illustrating that virtue is its own reward, while vice brings its own punishment.
Sartre’s Existential Hell: A Reflection on Human Nature
In stark contrast, Jean-Paul Sartre, a Nobel laureate in literature, explores the idea of afterlife and personal judgment through his play “No Exit.” In this work, three characters find themselves trapped in a room with no exit, illustrating their eternal punishment through the torment they inflict on one another. The absence of physical torture emphasizes the psychological suffering of their situation.
As the characters grapple with their past actions, Garcin asserts, “There’s no need of red-hot pokers. Hell is — other people.” This statement encapsulates Sartre’s view that the true horror of existence lies in the judgment of others and the inability to escape one’s own reality. The interplay of self-awareness and interpersonal dynamics reveals the complex nature of human morality.
In Sartre’s hell, Inez, Estelle, and Garcin are stripped of their secrets and exposed to their own shortcomings. Their discussions about appearance, self-worth, and morality expose the frailty of human nature. In this literary universe, the characters are not only judged by their deeds but also by their ability to confront their inner selves.
Similar themes appear in the Buddhist Tibetan Book of the Dead, which presents a more compassionate view of self-acceptance in the afterlife. While Zoroastrianism, Christianity, and Buddhism celebrate virtuous actions, Sartre’s portrayal remains stark, suggesting that individuals often become their own worst critics.
Sartre’s “No Exit” will be performed at the University of Idaho from December 4-14, 2023, offering a chance for audiences to engage with these profound themes of morality and existence. This performance promises to be a compelling exploration of the human condition and the philosophical questions that have persisted throughout history.
In examining the teachings of Zoroaster alongside Sartre’s existential reflections, we gain a deeper understanding of the complexities of morality, judgment, and the ways individuals confront their own actions. These insights continue to resonate, inviting reflection on our own lives and choices.
