Unlock the Secrets of Nowruz: A Celebration of Renewal and Ancient Wisdom
What a magnificent way to welcome the Spring Equinox—with a heartfelt Nowruz celebration. This moment symbolizes renewal, balance, and a deep connection to nature’s rhythms. I’ve always cherished the traditional and cultural practices passed down through generations, especially those that illuminate nature and our path toward harmony and enlightenment.
What is Nowruz?
Nowruz, the Persian New Year, is a celebration of spring that dates back over 3,000 years, rooted in the ancient religion of Zoroastrianism. It begins on the first day of the Iranian calendar—usually on or around March 20th, aligning with the Spring Equinox—and lasts for 13 days.
The United Nations recognizes March 21st as International Nowruz Day, honoring a holiday observed by millions around the world. Festivities include eating, dancing, and a deep spring-cleaning ritual to rejuvenate the home and spirit.
Nowruz means “new day” in Persian (with “now” translating to new and “ruz” to day), and celebrates the end of darkness and the rebirth of nature by around 300 million people across Iran, Azerbaijan, Afghanistan and Central Asia, as well as in Kurdish, Turkic Uyghur and Parsi communities worldwide.
It’s remarkable to reflect on this tradition’s long history—older than the Chinese calendar, Diwali, and many other global holidays. Its enduring legacy is a testament to the resilience of cultural heritage, offering a beautiful opportunity to connect with nature, renew the spirit, and honor the cycles of the Earth.
How is Nowruz celebrated?
The Haft-Sin is a stunning and symbolic table, serving as the centerpiece of Nowruz celebrations. Typically prepared a few days before the Persian New Year, it remains on display throughout the 13-day festivities, representing renewal, prosperity, and hope for the year ahead.
Adorned with seven carefully chosen items that begin with the Persian letter “S” (Sin), the Haft-Sin embodies values and aspirations for the new year. Each item holds deep meaning and reflects the spirit of Nowruz. Here’s a look at the traditional items placed on the Haft-Sin and their symbolic significance:
- Sabzeh (سبزه): Sprouted wheat, barley, or lentil greens symbolizing rebirth, growth, and renewal.
- Samanu (سمنو): A sweet pudding made from wheat germ, representing power, strength, and fertility.
- Senjed (سنجد): Dried oleaster fruit, symbolizing love and affection.
- Seer (سیر): Garlic, representing medicine, health, and protection.
- Seeb (سیب): Apples, symbolizing beauty and good health.
- Somagh (سماق): Sumac, representing the sunrise and the triumph of light over darkness.
- Serkeh (سرکه): Vinegar, symbolizing patience, wisdom, and the acceptance of life’s challenges.
In addition to these seven items, families often include other meaningful objects, such as:
- Sonbol (سنبل): Hyacinth flowers, symbolizing the arrival of spring and renewal.
- Sekkeh (سکه): Coins, representing wealth and prosperity.
- Decorated eggs: Symbolizing fertility and new beginnings.
- Goldfish: Representing life and the passage of time.
- Mirror: Symbolizing self-reflection and clarity.
- Candles: Representing light and happiness.
- A holy book or poetry: Reflecting spirituality and wisdom.
The Haft-Sin is not just a table—it’s a celebration of life, hope, and the values that guide us into the new year.
As families prepare for Nowruz, they also partake in Chaharshanbe Suri, a lively and symbolic festival that takes place on the eve of the last Wednesday of the Persian solar year. The term “Chaharshanbe” means “Wednesday,” while “Suri” translates to “red” or “fire,” also known as the “Festival of Fire,” it marks the official start of the celebrations. Bonfires are lit across neighborhoods, and participants jump over the flames 3 times chanting:
“Zardiyeh Man Az To, Sorkhiyeh To Az Man.”
(“Take my yellow [weakness], give me your red [strength].”)
This chant reflects the desire to shed toxins, illness, and negativity (represented by yellow) into the fire, while drawing strength, health, and positive energy (symbolized by red) from it. Jumping over the flames is not only a physical act but also a spiritual one, representing stepping into the New Year with light, warmth, and hope.
This leads into the 13 days of Nowruz which are filled with meaningful traditions and celebrations that emphasize renewal, connection, and joy. Here’s an overview of what typically happens during this period:
- Visiting Loved Ones The first few days are dedicated to visiting family and friends, exchanging gifts, and sharing meals. This practice, known as did-o-bazdid, strengthens bonds and fosters goodwill.
- Wearing New Clothes People wear new clothes to symbolize a fresh start and embrace the spirit of renewal.
- Feasting and Celebrations Special dishes like sabzi polo mahi (herbed rice with fish) and ash-e reshteh (noodle soup) are prepared and enjoyed with loved ones.
- Cultural Activities Poetry readings, music, and traditional dances are common, reflecting the rich artistic heritage of Nowruz.
- Outdoor Activities Families often spend time outdoors, enjoying the beauty of spring and connecting with nature.
- Sizdah Bedar (Day 13) The celebrations culminate on the 13th day with Sizdah Bedar, when families head outdoors for picnics. This day is about leaving behind bad luck and embracing the promise of the new year. People often throw sprouted greens (sabzeh) into running water, symbolizing the release of negativity.
Each day of Nowruz is an opportunity to reflect, connect, and celebrate life, making it a truly special time for millions around the world.
Embracing Celestial Harmony for Nowruz:
To add a fresh perspective to my celebration, I’ve incorporated four key principles inspired by Keiko, a Japanese astrologer who weaves the Moon’s cycles and celestial wisdom into everyday life. These practices beautifully align with the essence of the spring equinox, enriching its meaning and enhancing its connection to the universe.
- Cleaning and tidying up my entranceways: Creating a welcoming and harmonious energy by ensuring the pathways into my home both indoors and outdoors are clear and inviting. This should be done a day before, March 19th.
- Fresh flowers in red and orange: Bringing in vibrant blooms to symbolize passion, vitality, and the warmth of renewal.
- Changing lightbulbs: Illuminating spaces with fresh light, symbolizing clarity, brightness, and new beginnings.
- Sleeping with my head towards the East: Aligning my crown chakra with the direction of the rising sun to invite positive energy, renewal, and growth during rest.
Incorporating Keiko’s celestial-inspired principles into my traditions has added a fresh layer of meaning to the celebration. By blending these modern, universal practices with the ancient customs of Nowruz, I’ve found a deeper connection to the rhythms of nature and the cosmos. This fusion of traditions allows me to honor the past while embracing new perspectives, making the celebration not just a nod to history but also a personal journey of renewal and growth.
Nowruz, to me, is a beautiful reminder of how cultural heritage, Mother Nature, and contemporary practices can harmoniously coexist, enriching the way we celebrate and connect with the world around us.
