Nowruz: The Spring Equinox

For three long months, the days are shorter, the weather is colder, and animals sleep in hibernation. However, as March arrives, and the days get longer, the weather becomes warmer, the flowers start to bloom, and hints of spring’s arrival are revealed, so comes Nowruz festivities and traditions. 

The Persian new year, known as Nowruz, celebrates the spring equinox, (the official start of spring), on March 20th, every year! 

Dating back 3000 years, Nowruz is one of the oldest celebrations to date, with over 300 million people celebrating from various ethnic backgrounds and cultures around the middle-east and central asia. It is deeply rooted in the traditions within Iran, Afghanistan, Azerbaijan, Uzbekistan, Turkmenistan, Tajikistan, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan and other nations once a part of Persia. 

Traditions and festivities! 

Rooted in the ancient Persian religion, Zoroastrianism, Nowruz festivities feature many traditions varying from family to family; however the three most cherished traditions are charshanbe soori; the vibrant fire jumping celebration, the haft seen; the decorative display of seven symbolic elements and sezdebadare; the joyful outdoor gathering to bid farewell to the holiday.

Charshanbe souri; celebration of fire 

“Charshanbe soori”, a festival celebrated on the eve of the last Tuesday before Nowruz Day (March 20th), is marked by jumping over small bonfires, symbolizing purification and renewal before the new year. Customarily, while leaping over the flames, the phrase "Zardi-ye man az to, sorkhi-ye to az man" is recited, translating to "My sickness/paleness to you, your warmth/redness to me". This signifies the rejuvenation of oneself before heading into the new year by “burning” one’s illness, negativity and bad luck among the flames in exchange for the light, health and positive energy of the fire’s spirit. 

Haft seen; the table of 7 S’s 

The display of the haft seen is the decorated arrangement of 7 symbolic elements starting with the Persian  letter "س" (Sin), along with other elements, each representing a different virtue to bring into the coming spring. The elements include Sabzeh, Samanu, Senjed, Seer, Seeb, Somāq, and Serkeh, translating to; samanu (Persian pudding), dried oleaster fruit, garlic, apple, somaq (persian spice), and vinegar, alongside additional optional elements that do not begin with “S”, such as goldfish, painted eggs, candles, flowers and a mirror. 

Goldfish symbolize the cycle of life. The clock symbolizes a passage of time. Painted eggs symbolize fertility and new life. The miroir symbolizes self reflection, and purity. Flowers symbolize beauty and the arrival of spring. Finally, coins symbolize prosperity and wealth. 

Below are each of the elements, along with what they represent:

Sabzeh (سبزه), sprouted wheat, symbolizes rebirth and growth. 

Samanu (سمنو), Persian pudding, symbolizes strength. 

Senjed (سنجد), dried oleaster fruit, symbolizes love and wisdom. 

Seer (سیر), garlic, symbolizes health and protection from evil. 

Seeb (سیب), apple, symbolizes beauty and good health 

Somāq (سماق), sumac, symbolizes the triumph of good over evil.

Serkeh (سرکه), vinegar, symbolizes patience and aging with grace. 

Sizdah Be-Dar: the thirteenth day of spring

Throughout many unique cultures and religions, the number thirteen is viewed to inflict bad energy. Among Zoroastrianism, this superstition is no different, which is why, exactly thirteen days after Nowruz, on April 2nd, it is tradition to leave your home for the day to stay clear of any bad luck headed for you. Families usually head outside for a picnic, replacing any bad energy with refreshing spring air, laughter and dance. 

Happy Nowruz! 

Nowruz has long been a cherished and honored tradition, celebrated by millions. It is a day filled with joy, laughter, and the promise of new beginnings after the harsh winter.

From all of us at The Sentinel Sun, we wish our readers and everyone celebrating a very happy (belated) Nowruz!   نوروز مبارک!