Archaic features in Zoroastrian priesthood

This article studies a shamanistic traces within zoroastric mythological and ritualistic tradition. Mystical features in the image of Zoroaster are analyzed with the specifics of their functioning revealed. Zoroaster's specialty was to get in touch with God, act as a psychopompe, possess the technique of ecstasy, compose and understand esoteric hymns. On basis of Avesta hymns content and it's comparison to Rig-Veda hymns the author reveals such features of zoroastrian priesthood that enable us to presume his acquaintance with shamanistic complex, and explains the reasons behind the preservation of certain shamanistic traditions in zoroastric practice.