In common usage, this term refers to a future savior or Messiah-figure, who will spread divine truth and lead humanity in the final battle against the forces of evil. It is speculated that this Zoroastrian belief in a Saoshyant influenced the Jewish — and later Christian — belief in a Messiah.

In Zoroaster's own writings, the Gathas, the term is used to refer to his own prophetic mission and to the community of his followers, who "bring benefit" to humanity. In later Zoroastrian doctrine it is envisaged that there will be three future Saoshyants, who will restore order when the world has fallen into chaos. These will be born of virgins from the miraculously preserved seed of the prophet Zoroaster himself. The last Saoshyant will bring about the final judgement of humanity and will secure the harmony of the world.

"Since He is (the One) to be chosen by the world therefore the judgment emanating from truth itself (to be passed) on the deeds of good thought of the world, as well as the power, is committed to Mazda Ahura whom (people) assign as a shepherd to the poor." --Yasna 27:13, the Ahuna Vairya prayer

In some cases, this term is used as a plural, saoshyans, to refer to religious leaders. In Iran and India Zoroastrians (and others), still use this name for males.