This article scientifically analyzes the historical-geographical localization of the 16 sacred lands mentioned in the first chapter of the Avesta’s Videvdat (Vendidad). Contrary to traditional Pahlavi sources associating the Zoroastrian homeland primarily with the Iranian plateau, this study introduces a novel approach using detailed textual, geographical, and recent archaeological evidence. The research effectively demonstrates these specific countries form four logical geographic chains starting directly from the Pamir region: extending along the Amu Darya, the Hindu Kush foothills, and the eastern borders. Ultimately, the study confidently concludes the Videvdat list completely excludes the Iranian plateau, suggesting the original text was likely composed in Southern Afghanistan around the mid-6th century BC.

Avesta, Videvdat, Zoroastrianism, historical geography, Airyanem Vaejah, Hindu Kush, archaeological evidence, regional localization.

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