It was declared that the altar and the throne were inseparable, and must always sustain each other.

The Magi were made to form the great council of the nation.

While they lent their support to the crown, the crown upheld them against all impugners, and enforced by pains and penalties their decisions.

Persecution was adopted and asserted as a principle of action without any disguise.

By an edict of Artaxerxes, all places of worship were closed except the temples of the fire-worshippers.