Ans. Yes, their priests mingled the fables of astrology with their astronomical learning; hence, from the word magi, is derived our word magician.
Ques. Where did the Persians offer their sacrifices?
Ans. Generally on the tops of lofty mountains.
Ques. When was the religion of Zoroaster suppressed in Persia?
Ans. After the conquest of Persia, by the Arabs, which took place in the seventh century, those who refused to embrace the Koran fled to Hindostan, where they still exist under the name of Parsees. At Bombay they are an active, intelligent and wealthy class.
CHAPTER IV.
Hindoo Mythology.
BRAHMA—THE VEDAS.
Ques. What are the Vedas?
Ans. The Vedas are the Sacred Books of the Hindoos, and are much reverenced by them. They maintain that they were composed by Brahma, the Supreme Deity, at the creation.