The Modern Magazine for Persian Celebrations, Cuisine, Culture & Community Page 1 of 6

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CELEBRATIONS

Introduction

Persian
Weddings
Sofreh Haft Sin - The Seven S's of the
Khaneh Tekani - Spring Cleaning
New Year Persian
Noruz
Chahar Shanbeh Suri - Red Wednesday
Deed-o Bazdeed - New Years Visits
Bonfire Festival Mehregan &
Other
Celebrations
Norooz History - New Years Roots Sizdah Bedar - The Day 13 Outing
Local Events
Resource Guide

Message Board
Sal Tahvil - New Year's Times Sofreh Haft Sin Photo Album

Haji Firuz & Amoo Norooz- The Persian

Norooz Celebration Photo Album
Troubadour & Santa Claus

Sofreh Preparation - Growing Sabzeh &

Egg Painting

KHANEH TEKANI - SPRING CLEANING

Noruz (new year, or more literally "new day") is the most important celebration for Iranians. Perhaps the
first step in preparing for Noruz or Now-Ruz, the Persian New Year, is Khaneh Tekani, the annual house
cleaning or the spring-cleaning. In ancient times, Iranians believed that spirits of their deceased families
and friends would come to visit their descendants and their homes. For this occasion, the hosts clean their
homes. The word Khaneh or the slang Khooneh means house or home. The word Tekani means shaking. So
the Iranians are literally shaking the house to clean it - much like you shake a rug to clean it. During the
Khaneh Tekani, every room in the house is thoroughly cleaned. Iranian families gather to wash the rugs,
carpets, and curtains. They polish silverware, pots and pans, and renew old items in the house. In addition,
for Norooz, every member of the family renews their look by purchasing Norooz clothes to be worn on the
day of Norooz. Families fill their homes with the sweet fragrance of flowers such as hyacinth and narcissus.
The burning of wild rue, which is called esfand, is practiced to keep evil spirits away and provide a nice
aroma in the house.

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CHAHAR SHANBEH SURI - RED WEDNESDAY BONFIRE FESTIVAL

On the eve of the Wednesday before Norooz, the Iranians celebrate Chahar Shanbeh Suri. This is
commonly known as the Wednesday Feast or the Festival of the last Wednesday as it is always celebrated
on the eve of the last Wednesday of the year. The word Chahar Shanbeh means Wednesday and Suri is
red.

The festivities start in the early evening. Children and fun seeking adults, wrap themselves in white sheets
or costumes reenacting visits by the departed spirits. They run through the streets banging on pots and
pans with spoons. This is called Gashog-Zani or spoon banging and ushers out the last unlucky Wednesday
of the year. They also go to their neighbors, knock on doors and ask for treats, a tradition very similar to
Halloween. The main event of Chahar-Shanbeh Suri is the setting of seven little fires consisting of dried
bushes and shrubs, which are placed on the ground. Adults and children alike gather to jump over the
flames to sing, and celebrate the renewal of life. While jumping the flames, the person chants “Sorkhi-e to
az man. Zardi-e man az to.” The literal translation is, “Your fiery red color is mine and my sickly yellow
paleness is yours.” Loosely translated, this means you want the fire to take your paleness, sickness and
problems and in turn give you redness, warmth and energy. There is no religious significance attached to
Chahar Shanbeh Suri and it serves as a cultural festival for all Iranian Jews, Moslems, Armenians, Turks
and Zoroastrians alike.

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Iranians believe that wishes will come true on this night. Wishes are made and in order to make them come
true, it is customary to prepare Noodles & Bean soup called Ash-e Chahar Shanbeh Suri and share with the
poor. Friends and strangers alike are also served with nuts and dried fruits, the Ajil-e Chahar Shanbeh Suri.
The Ajil has a mixture of seven dried nuts and fruits, pistachios, roasted chic peas, almond, hazelnuts, figs,
apricots, and raisins.

To make wishes come true, people who have made wishes will stand at the corner of an intersection, or
hide behind walls to listen to conversation of those passing by. If the conversations overheard are positive
then the wish will come true. This tradition is called Fal Gush meaning 'listening for one's fortune'. Finally
the Chahar Shanbeh Suri evening ends with fire works and family gatherings for a festive meal.

This ancient festival has been celebrated for thousands of years ever since the birth of the Zoroastrian
religion in Persia. Persians celebrated the last 10 days of the year in the annual feast of souls,
Hamaspathmaedaya, Farvardigan or popularly Forodigan). They believed Foruhars, the guardian angels for
humans and the spirits of deceased would come back for a visit. These spirits were entertained as honored
guests, and were given a ritual farewell at the dawn of the New Year. The bon fires also served as a
welcome to these guests. Small clay figurines in shape of humans and animals symbolizing all departed
relatives and animals were also placed on the rooftops. Flames were burnt all night to ensure the returning
spirits were protected from the forces of Ahriman. This was called Suri festival. There were gatherings in
joyful assemblies, with prayers, feasts and communal consumption of ritually blessed food. Rich and poor
met together and the occasion was a time of general goodwill when quarrels were resolved and friendships
renewed.

On the Thursday after Chahar Shanbeh Suri, Shab-e Jome is celebrated which is a traditional big feast of
polo and chicken. Follow ling this ritual assures one that there will be a similar dinner at least once a week
during the coming year.

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NOROOZ HISTORY - NEW YEARS ROOTS

The word Norooz meaning New Day, is the most anticipated and favorite celebration for Iranians. It occurs
exactly on the Spring Equinox. This occasion has been renowned in one form or another by all the major
cultures of ancient Mesopotamia. Sumerians, 3000 BC, Babylonians, the ancient kingdom of Elam in
Southern Persia and Akaddians in the second millennium BC, all celebrated this festival. What we celebrate
today as Norooz (Also spelled Now Ruz, Norooz or Norouz) has been around for at least 3000 years and is
deeply rooted in the rituals and traditions of the Zoroastrians of the Sassanian period.

The concepts of Hell, Heaven, Resurrection, the coming of the Messiah, individual and last judgment are
the foundation for the Zoroastrian belief system and still exist in Judeo-Christian and Islamic traditions. In
their ancient text, ‘Bundahishn’ foundation of creation, it is said that The Lord of Wisdom (Ahura Mazda)
residing in the eternal light was not God. He created all that was good and became God. The Hostile Spirit,
Angra Mainyu (Ahriman), residing in the eternal darkness created all that was evil and became the Hostile
Spirit. Everything that produced life, protected and enriched it was regarded as good. This included all
forces of nature beneficial to humans. Earth, waters, sky, animals, plants, justice, honesty, peace, health,

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beauty, joy and happiness were regarded as belonging to the good forces. All that threatened life and
created disorder belonged to the hostile spirits.

The next creation was the material world, created at seven different stages. The first creation was the sky,
and the second was the first ocean. Earth, a big flat dish sitting on the ocean, was the third. The next three
creations were the first plant, the first animal a bull and the first human Gayo-maretan (Kiomarth, both
male and female). The seventh creation was fire together with the sun.

To protect his creations the Lord of Wisdom created six holy immortals known as ‘Amesha Spenta’. The first
three were male deities. Khashtra (Sharivar), the protector of sky; Asha-Vahishta (Ordibehesht) and Vahu
Manah (Bahman) protected fire and animals. The other three were female deities: Haurvatat (Khordad) to
protect water, Spenta Armaiti (Esfand) protector of mother earth and Ameratat (Amoordad) for plant life.
Ahura Mazda became the protector of humans and the holy fire. The six immortals are the names of six of
the months in the current Iranian calendar. To begin the cycle life, the plant produced seeds; the bull
produced all animals and from the human came the first male and female. The rest of the humanity was
created from their union. This was called the first No Ruz, meaning new day and the beginning of the cycle
of life. It starts at the beginning of spring and the seven creations are remembered and embraced through
the Iranian New Year spread called Sofreh Haft Sin. Norooz is celebrated for 13 days after the mark of
spring equinox.

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SAL TAHVIL - NEW YEAR'S TIMES

The Sal Tahvil or the Sa'at-e Tahvil is New Year's Eve, which is the official time for the Spring Equinox.
Every year the equinox occurs at a different point in time, so the date, although accurately measured (to
the date and time) is different each year, but close to March 20th.

Sa'at- tahvil is an important moment, as it is a time for forgiving each other, putting away petty differences
and looking forward to building more constructive relationships. The countdown is often followed carefully
on the radio or television, as the family gathers around the haft sin, in their new clothes, carefully watching
the egg or preparing to take a picture of the Sal Tahvil. Legend says that there is a bullfish in the ocean of
time carrying the world on one of its horns. When the Sal-e Tahvil arrives, the bullfish tosses the world
over to the other horn, resulting in a tremor that will dislodge the egg and send it rolling to the side of the
mirror.

As the countdown ushers in the new year, everyone rejoices, kiss each other, exchanging Norooz greetings
such as “Eid-i shoma mobarak!”or “Sal-e No Mobarak!” which means Happy New Year. Gifts, usually money
called Eidi, placed inside the Koran are exchanged, given by older members to the younger members of the
family. Members of the family then celebrate by singing, eating, drinking and taking pictures.

It is also believed that the next visitor to the home will set the tone for luck in the new year, so generally
the family will send out the youngest or most innocent member of the family to go outside with some
sweets and knock on the door, come in and pretend to be a visitor. After the family has celebrated, the
next 13 days are spent visiting the families.

Families gather to take pictures and share sweets and celebrate.

Observance of NOROOZ Saal-Tahvil (turn of the year) - is on

FOR NEW TIMES FOR THIS NEW YEAR PLEASE VISIT THE NOROOZ

CALENDAR FOR SAL TAHVIL ON PERSIANMIRROR.COM

Saal Tahvil Link for Current Year

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HAJI FIRUZ & AMOO NOROOZ- THE PERSIAN TROUBADOUR & SANTA CLAUS

The old Haji, named Firuz or Firooz, is the troubadour who ushers in the new year with his song, dance and
merriment. Haji Firooz symbolizes the rebirth of the Sumerian god of sacrifice, Domuzi, who was killed at
the end of each year and reborn at the beginning of the New Year. Wearing an elaborate red costume
which is a cross between a court jester, santa claus and perhaps a venician at carnival, the herald uses his
tambourine and enlists a few fellow comedians to make the world laugh. Traditionally, Haji Firooz wears
black make up and this is thought to have come from ancient times when the entertainment was provided
by black slaves who, with their rather 'strange accents' for the Persians brought laughter to the people.
Today’s modern Haji Firooz sings and dances through the streets with tambourines and trumpets spreading
joy for Norooz. He often appears at gatherings and entertains by singing, dancing, telling stories and also a
few good jokes. Children and adults all love Haji Firooz who, if you are lucky, will tell a few good tales like
that of Amoo Norooz (Amoo Norouz) and other old Persian tales. Amoo Norooz, a distant relative of Haji
Firooz is responsible for giving gifts to the children much like Santa Claus. He makes their wishes come
true and ensures that they are happy and healthy for many years to come.

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SOFREH PREPARATION - GROWING SABZEH & EGG PAINTING

You can start growing your sabzeh which is the first S on the sofreh and consists of green sprouts, about 2
or 3 weeks before Norooz. This also depends on how tall you want your Sabzeh. You will need whole lentils
(adas) or whole-wheat seeds sold at Iranian stores. We recommend you use these as grocery store seeds
do not always yield the best results.

Place a good amount of seed on a nice plate or dish, about 1 cm thick, Soak the seeds in water for two
days and then put them on a shallow plate and cover it with a cotton cloth or thin towel. With the cloth
over the seeds, place plate in a sunny location or under a light if you do not have access to the sun. Squirt
water over the shoots several times a day, and keep them covered with the cloth. Ensure that the seeds do
not get too dry or over-soaked. In about 2 or 3 days, small sprouts appear. Remove the cloth and let the
sabzeh grow (increased exposure to the sun will increase the speed of its growth). You can grow several
dishes in case they rot or go moldy which they often do. Some ladies have a reputation for having green
hands and growing great Sabzeh. They might be asked to grow some for friends and relatives. If your
hands are far from "green" on your first attempts, do not worry, most Iranian stores sell pre-grown Sabzeh
and many people simply buy them.

Another fun tradition for the children is the painting of the eggs for Norooz. This is much like the Easter
tradition of painting eggs and can be a great way to teach children about the significance of Haft Sin. The
best time to do this is the day before Norooz. That way your eggs will be ready for the sofreh and they will
last for the next 13 days of the New Year.

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SOFREH HAFT SIN - THE SEVEN S'S OF THE NEW YEAR

The Sofreh Haft Sin (Haft Seen) is the spread, which the family gathers around to celebrate the New Year.
It is the focal point of the celebration and ensuing visits and as such Iranians take great care and pride in
putting together a lavish and elaborate spread to signify all that they want in the new year. The word Haft
means seven and Sin stands for the “S” in the alphabet. Sofreh means spread, the floor of which is usually

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a nice rich material or embroidered fabric. The spread contains the seven specific things that start with “s”.
The sofreh is prepared a day or two before Norooz and placed either on the floor or on the table for about
two weeks after Norooz. In addition to the seven items, you may place additional items on the sofreh that
will signify renewal, happiness, wealth, good health or any thing that you desire for the New Year. You will
find additional items that start with S and other items that represent life in our list. Remember that this
celebration is one of hope, promise and good fortune, so have fun with it and share the joy with all your
friends and family.

Here is a list of suggested items for your sofreh:

Persian
Definition Description & Symbolism Position
Name

Made from wheat or lentil this S signifies

The First S on the
Sabzeh Spring Sprouts rebirth and renewal. Read about how you
Sofreh.
grow these sprouts at home.

The fragrant and blooming lotus tree

A sweet, dry fruit of a makes people fall in love so it is natural The Second S on the
Senjed
lotus tree that its fruit would signify love and Sofreh
affection

A big red apple represents health and

Sib Apple Third S on the Sofreh
beauty.

Wheat and wheat products signify

Samanu Wheat Pudding Fourth S on the Sofreh
sweetness and fertility.

Serkeh Vinegar White Vinegar signifies age and patience. Fifth S on the Sofreh

This S symbolizes the spice of life. Some

say Somagh represents the color of the
Somagh Crushed Sumac berries Sixth S on the Sofreh
sunrise and with the sun all evil is
conquered.

Seer Garlic This medicinal S is a sign of good health. Seventh S on the Sofreh

Sekeh Gold Coins Wealth and Prosperity Optional S.

Purple or pink hyacinth are common on

Sonbol Hyacinth Flower the Sofreh and also represent life and Optional S.
beauty.

Noon-e Sangak represents prosperity for

the feasts. It can be accompanied by
Sangak Flatbread Optional S.
Naan-o Panir, which is Iranian feta cheese
and fresh herbs to be eaten at the feast.

A sweet honey candy made with

Sohan Asali Honey Almonds Optional S.
pistachios.

Gold Fish in a clear white bowl represents

Gold Fish Mahi life and the end of the astral year On the Sofreh
associated with the constellation Pisces.

To bring light & brightness into the New

Ayne A Mirror Head of the Sofreh
Year

Candles large or small can be used and On either side of the

Sha’am Two Candelabras
symbolize fire & energy. mirror.

Symbolizes fertility. Eggs are painted by

Tokhm-e On the Sofreh. Can be as
Decorated Eggs children much like Easter eggs are
Morgh elaborate as desired.
painted.

Iranians love nuts. They can be roasted

Ajil Assorted Nuts pistachios, walnuts, almonds, and On the Sofreh
hazelnuts

Koran, Bible, Torah, Placed in the middle. Put

Symbolizes blessings and faith in the New
Avesta or other money in the pages of
Scriptures Year. You can also place a Divan-e Hafez
Scriptures, or Poetry the book and give out
or other book of faith and knowledge.
depending on beliefs Eidi after sal tahvil.

Noghl, Baaghlavaa, Toot, Noon-e Berenji,

Shirini Sweets & Pastries Noon-e Nokhodchi and any other sweets On the Sofreh
you prefer

A brazier "Manghal" holding burning coals

Esfand or sprinkled with "Esphand" a popular
Wild Rue Nearby
Esphand incense. It keeps the evil eye away and
brings on health.

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Other optional items: rose water (gol ab), various spices, tray of dry beans, wheat and grain products, various fruit
baskets, flowers, vegetables, sweets, nuts and snacks are all welcome. Some families also add a Jaa Namaaz (prayer
mat). You can also include a termeh, which is a traditional Persian silk or gold embroidered cloth, handed down from
generations to symbolize family and tradition. Visit our real sofreh pictures.

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DEED-O BAZDEED - NEW YEARS VISITS

The Sal Tahvil, and the eve of the New Year are spent at home with immediate family. After that the
tradition of Deed-o Bazdeed starts. This expression means to visit (see) and to visit back or again signifying
the next 13 days of the New Year, which bring visits to and from family, friends and neighbors. On the first
day of these visits, the families gather at the house of the head of the family, usually the oldest person
such as a grandfather or grandmother of the family. This order is kept then from oldest to youngest and
serves as a way of paying respect to the family. During these visits, aunts, uncles, cousins, friends,
neighbors and distant relatives gather to celebrate and enjoy the reunion, which may not otherwise occur
during the busy year. Iranian sweets, shirini, ajil, tea and various fruits, or entire meals are served at these
functions. Children get presents called Eidi from the older relatives, which range from toys to cash. The
visits continue going from grandparents to the aunts, uncles, family friends and so on. At the end of
thirteen days, the families go on the wonderful and fun family outing called Seezah Bedar.

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SIZDAH BEDAR - THE DAY 13 OUTING

Seezdah Bedar is the last holiday of the long Norooz break and is a day filled with relaxation and fun
outdoors. Seezdah means 13 and Bedar means away or out. Iranians consider 13 to be an unlucky number
and so for this reason, they spend the 13th day of the New Year outside the home. Seezdah-Bedar is in
essence a national picnic that is celebrated with everyone going to parks, hills and mountainsides to spend
the day with nature, wishing the evil spirits away. This way one hopes to avoid any bad incidents that may
occur.

Family members rise early in the morning and prepare for the day long picnic. Iranians take their picnics
very seriously and pack all the necessary items, leaving maybe the refrigerators behind. Supplies may
include sandwiches, traditional polos, drinks, sweets, snacks such as ajil, carpets or rugs, the samavar, a
ghalyan (water-pipe), backgammon, chess, cards, balls and other games for the children. Usually areas
filled with nature, greenery and streams are chosen to commemorate this cultural holiday. More
importantly, the sabzeh (sprouted wheat or lentils) is brought from the sofreh Haft-Sin to be thrown in a
flowing stream or creek. It is believed that the sabzeh, which has by this time turned a little yellow,
symbolizes sickness and problems. Therefore, it is thrown and carried away by the stream. The day is
spent playing games, going for long walks in the fields, eating, drinking and enjoying each other’s
company. In addition, Seezdah Bedar is a big day of hope, and people who wish for things follow the
tradition of tying grass together. For example if a young girl wishes to find a husband in the coming year
she will tie grass and chant “Seezdah Bedar Sale degar, khune-ye shuhar”. This rhyme literally means,
“Next seezdah bedar, I will be at my husband’s home”. There are various chants for people who wish to get
a job or be healthy or wealthy and so on. At the end of this day, the haft sin may be cleared away and
families return to work.

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