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A brief look at the ritual and symbolic differences between the zoroastrian Nowruz table and the common “Haft-Seen” among Iranians and others celebrating this ancient festival:
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The Nowruz table—often referred to as Haft-Seen—varies in form and essence across different regions, ethnic groups, and communities that celebrate this ancient festival. Some of its elements shared among all are rooted in Zoroastrian traditions, while others have evolved over time, shaped by geography and local customs. Behdins and Parsis in India are no exception to this diversity, as their Nowruz table differs significantly from the common Haft-Seen spread among non-Zoroastrian Iranians.
Unlike the Haft-Seen, which is widely recognized today in Iran and beyond, the Zoroastrian Nowruz table does not follow the custom of selecting items based on a specific letter (such as “S” in the Persian alphabet). Instead, each offering placed upon this sacred table represents the best bounties of Ahura Mazda, and every item embodies a spiritual connection to the Yazatas who manifest divine virtues in the material world.
Some also believe that the items on the Nowruz table should symbolically represent the Amesha Spentas—the Seven Highest entities that govern creation: Vohu Manah (Good Mind), Asha Vahishta (Best Righteousness), Khshathra Vairya (Desirable Dominion), Spenta Armaiti (Holy Devotion), Haurvatat (Wholeness), Ameretat (Immortality). The 7th Ameshaspand is Ahura Mazda himself. Hence the significance of the number 7-Haft for the Nowruz table.
While this perspective is also valid, the composition of the Nowruz table among Zoroastrians varies by region, village, and family tradition. From Yazd and Kerman to Tehran, Shiraz, and other Zoroastrian communities, diverse interpretations and customs shape the arrangement of the table. Below is a list of the key foods and symbolic items traditionally placed on the Zoroastrian Nowruz table. This guide may inspire those who wish to set a unique and spiritually meaningful table this year.
The Essential Elements of the Zoroastrian Nowruz Table:
A Mirror with the Image of Asho Zarathushtra – A symbol of truth and divine illumination.
A copy of the Khordeh Avesta – The sacred book containing prayers and hymns.
Candles/Diva and a Light Source – A symbol of Ahura Mazda’s eternal light (oil lamps or lanterns are often used).
Green Sugar Cones (Ghand-e Sabz) – Two or three sugar loaves wrapped in green cloth, decorated with Zoroastrian symbols.
Sabzeh (Sprouts) – Preferably wheatgrass, symbolizing renewal and eternal life.
Samanu, Senjed, Somagh, Seer, Serkeh – Some shared elements with the Haft-Seen tradition.
A Red Apple in a Bowl of Water – Representing vitality and fertility.
A Pomegranate with Coins Embedded in It – A sign of abundance and prosperity.
A Floating Orange or Bitter Orange (Narenj) in a Bowl of Water – Often accompanied by thyme, rose petals, frankincense, and rosewater.
Decorated Eggs – Symbolizing creation and rebirth.
Milk – A symbol of purity and righteousness.
Wine – A representation of joy and spiritual upliftment.
Faludeh Yazdi or Kermani – A traditional Persian dessert symbolizing sweetness and refreshment.
Bread, Cheese, Herbs, and Salt – A combination representing abundance, health, and protection.
Rice and Wheat – Denoting nourishment and sustenance.
Sirog (Surok) Bread – A sacred offering in Zoroastrian rituals.
Chimal – Small dough balls mixed with butter and dates, a traditional delicacy from Kerman.
Shirmal, Komach-e Sen, and Kalamp – Various Zoroastrian ceremonial breads.
Different Types of Halva – Including sesame and saffron-based varieties.
Thread and Needle – Representing unity and strength.
Cotton – A sign of purity and lightness.
Matches and a Broom (Specific to Kerman) – Symbolizing cleansing and renewal.
Two Traditional Persian Soups (Ash) – Dishes often prepared for festive and sacred occasions.
A Sack of Nogh’l and Nuts (Dolugh) – A selection of sweets and nuts for Nowruz.
BY Zoroastrian wisdom
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