Monday Mosaic: Nowrooz Celebration

curated by Susanne Guirakhoo of enchantedhue

A few soft green new things to adorn your home, your person, and your pet in the New Year:

Tapas Dish by jilljburns

Green Mariposite Earrings by Beryllina

Handwoven Table Runner by weavelea

Dog Collar with Adjustable Buckle by codyscreations

The first day of spring marks the first day of the Persian New Year, Nowrooz. It is one of my favorite celebrations. Lots of symbolism and ceremonies that represent the End and Rebirth, Good and Evil. Traditions include germinating of seeds as sign of renewal, cleaning the house, making or buying new clothes, lighting and jumping over bonfires in hope of enlightenment and happiness for the new year, and setting up a ceremonial table with 7 dishes that start with the Persian letter sinn (the number 7 is sacred in Iran, and the seven dishes stand for the seven angelic heralds of life: rebirth, health, happiness, prosperity, joy, patience, and beauty).

The celebration lasts 13 days. On the 13th day, Sizdeh Bedahr, every family goes outside for a picnic, games, and to celebrate the end of the holiday season. The germinated seeds are thrown into a body of moving water. They are said to have absorbed all the ill fate and pain that might be destined for the family, and the water carries them away.