As many of you may be aware, Haft-sin, is a traditional table setting that is part of the Persian New Year celebration known as Noruz.
Noruz marks the arrival of spring and the beginning of the Persian calendar year that is widely celebrated in Iran.
Luckily everything on the Haft-sin table is vegan which is fantastic. However some people unfortunately still buy gold fish and include it in their haft-sin. That will obviously never happen if you have a vegan mindset, because every life will be precious to you.
I would like to share with you some of the beautiful symbolism that is behind the philosophy of Haft-sin. On the table we typically includes seven symbolic, each starting with the Persian letter “seen” (س) or “s” in English.
What are these Haft-sin seven items?
1. Sabzeh (سبزه): Sprouted wheat (can also be barley, or lentil sprouts) which symbolizes rebirth and renewal. It is our reconnection and becoming one with the nature.
2. Samanu (سمنو): A sweet pudding made from wheat, which represents affluence and fertility since samanu is very nutrient-dense and is considered super food.
3. Senjed (سنجد): is Oleaster fruit that, symbolizing wisdom and insight and the smell of the oleaster tree awakens love in humans.
4. Sir (سیر): Garlic, in believed to be the symbol of Ahura Mazda, (the god of Zoroastrianism) and it brings good health and well being into our lives.
5. Sib (سیب): Apples, symbolizing beauty and health and we include apples in the Haft-sin for the health of our loved ones.
6. Sumac (سماق): , representing the color of sunrise and the victory of light over darkness. This in my opinion is one of the most beautiful symbols ever.
7. Serkeh (سرکه): Vinegar, symbolizing age and patience and harmony.
Is there more?
In addition to all of the above, Persians usually add few more decorative item like beautiful mirrors. They are the symbol of self reflection which is believed that it should be done on every year.
Candles are also on the list and as you can guess they represent enlightenment and they are there to help us light the spiritual path.
Since Noruz traces back to Zoroastrianism, most people also add the Divan of Hafez. The Divan of Hafez is a collection of poems written by the Iranian poet Hafez and Most of these poems are in Farsi.
In the Persian tradition, if you face a difficulty or can not make a decision or have a question, you would hold that question in mind, and then ask the Oracle of Hafez for guidance and help.
May the spirit of noruz bring you hope love and prosperity.
Noruz mobarak