Nowruz (Persian New Year)
The Persian New Year — the most ancient celebration of spring's renewal.
✦ Why It Matters
Nowruz ("New Day") is the Zoroastrian and Persian New Year, observed on the spring equinox. With origins over 3,000 years old, it celebrates the defeat of winter (symbolic of darkness and evil) and the renewal of life. It is observed by over 300 million people worldwide including Iranians, Afghans, Kurds, and others.
✦ How It Is Observed
Haft-sin table (seven symbolic items), spring cleaning (khane-tekani), jumping over fire (Chaharshanbe Suri), visiting family and elders, gift-giving, planting seeds, charitable acts.
✦ Sacred Text
“This I ask Thee, O Ahura, tell me aright: Who was the first father of Righteousness at the birth? Who appointed their path to sun and stars? Who is it through whom the moon waxes and wanes?”
— Gathas of Zarathustra, Yasna 44 ↗