Persia, also known as Iran, was a great Empire beginning in 652 BC. the country has been invaded on multiple occasions by the Greeks, Mongols, Arabs, and Turks throughout their history. Iran has shrunk to todays country which is located between the Caspian Sea and the Persian Gulf
FARSI
The language of Persia, known as farsi, is an Indo-Iranian branch of the Indo-European languages. Its earliest recordings date from 522BC and has three established changes. The language of Rumi's time was after the Islamic conquest of Persia known as Classic Persian.
Zoroastrianism vs. Islam
ZOROASTRIANISM The original religion of Persia, know as Zoroastrianism, is one of the worlds oldest monotheist religions. The one god, know as Ahura Mazda (Wise Lord), created the world who's light or wisdom was represented in the form of fire. The followers prayed several times a day and worshiped in the fire temple or Agiary. The Avesta is the holy book of the religion. This religion remained in effect until several rulers after the Islamic overtake of Persia. Today there are very few who still follow and practice this religion.
Islam Also a monotheistic religion, Islam started to take control of Persia around 651 after Arab invasion. The religion was slowly accepted by the people until the 11th century when most of Persia became Islamic.