The Avesta is the sacred scripture of Zoroastrianism, one of the world's oldest monotheistic religions. It consists of a collection of texts written in the ancient Avestan language, which includes hymns, prayers, and religious laws. The Avesta serves as a guide for followers, outlining the teachings of the prophet Zoroaster and the principles of good thoughts, good words, and good deeds. The Avesta is divided into several sections, with the most important being the Gathas, which are hymns attributed to Zoroaster himself. Other parts include the Yasna, Yashts, and the Vendidad, each addressing different aspects of worship and ethics. The texts are central to the rituals and beliefs of Zoroastrian communities around the world.