Avestan refers to the ancient Indo-Iranian language in which the Avesta, or Zoroastrian scriptures, were written. The language is not currently in use anywhere because it was a proto-Iranian language that over time developed into modern Persian, or Farsi. The alphabet and corresponding script are still available for those who wish to pursue writing in Avestan script, also called din dabireh or din dabiri ("religious script" in the dialect of a later form of Persian).
The Avestan alphabet consists of 15 distinct vowel sounds and 37 consonants. Unlike most other Indo-Iranian languages, Avestan script is read from left to right. While Avestan is not a language currently in use, some calligraphers, including Perin Pudumjee Coyaji, have learned to write in the language to appreciate the art of the script.
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