Your Guide to my Chaharshanbe Suri 🔥The Ancient Iranian Tradition of Jumping Over Fire
Chaharshanbe Suri is the vibrant Iranian festival of fire, a captivating tradition that celebrates the triumph of light over darkness.
What is Chaharshanbe Suri?
Chaharshanbe Suri, also known as “Scarlet Wednesday,” is an ancient Zoroastrian festival observed on the eve of the last Wednesday of the year. It marks the beginning of Nowruz, the Iranian New Year. The festival’s fiery dance symbolizes purification and renewal, as we leap over bonfires, casting away misfortunes from the past year.
Nowruz celebrates rebirth, renewal, and the awakening of nature. It’s a time to bid farewell to winter and welcome spring with open arms. Families come together, share festive meals, and prepare for the grand Nowruz celebrations, which falls on the vernal equinox (around March 20 or 21).
The Fire Dance and Its Meaning
As the sun sets, people gather outdoors, collecting brushwood for bonfires for Chaharshanbe Suri. They leap over the flames, singing the phrase: “zardi-ye man az toh, sorkhi-ye toh az man.” In English, it translates to “my yellow is yours, your red is mine.” This beautiful poetic exchange embodies unity, sharing, and the promise of a brighter future.
Jumping Ritual
Jumping over the fire is considered a purification practice. Some leap three times, while others go as high as nine jumps. Imagine the flames carrying away worries and leaving room for hope and joy.
The Countdown to Spring
Chaharshanbe Suri takes place on the eve of the last Wednesday before Nowruz, heralding the arrival of spring and the new year. It’s a time to embrace the warmth, connect with loved ones, and dance into the future with renewed spirit.
In summary, Chaharshanbe Suri is more than a mere tradition; it’s a powerful reminder of resilience, hope, and the eternal dance between light and darkness. As the flames flicker, hearts are kindled with optimism, and the promise of a brighter future illuminates the night sky.
