Haft-Sin

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Iranian (Persian) Haft sin table in Tehran.

Outdoor Haft-Sin table in Tehran

Haft Sîn (Persian: هفت سین) or the seven 'S's is a major tradition of Nowruz(Nowruz marks the first day of spring and the beginning of the year in Iranian calendar), the traditional Iranian new year. Today the haft sin table includes seven specific items, all starting with the letter S or Sîn (س in the Persian alphabet). The items symbolically correspond to seven creations and holy immortals protecting them. Originally called Haft Chin (هفت چین), the Haft Sin has evolved over time, but has kept its symbolism. Traditionally, families attempt to set as beautiful a Haft Sîn table as they can, as it is not only of traditional and spiritual value, but also noticed by visitors during Nowruzi visitations and is a reflection of their good taste. The Haft Sin items are:

sabzeh(سبزه) - wheat, barley or lentil sprouts growing in a dish - symbolizing rebirth
samanu (سمنو)- a sweet pudding made from wheat germ - symbolizing affluence
senjed (سنجد)- the dried fruit of the oleaster tree - symbolizing love
sîr (سیر)- garlic - symbolizing medicine
sîb (سیب)- apples - symbolizing beauty and health
somaq (سماق)- sumac berries - symbolizing (the color of) sunrise
serkeh (سرکه)- vinegar - symbolizing age and patience

While traditionally incorrect, sometimes a missing Sin is exchanged with another item starting with an S. For example:

sonbol (سنبل)- the fragrant hyacinth flower (the coming of spring)
sekkeh (سکه)- coins (prosperity and wealth)

Other items on the table may include:

traditional Iranian pastries such as baghlava (باقلوا),
toot (توت), naan-nokhodchi (نان نخودچی)
dried nuts, berries and raisins that is called "Aajeel" (آجیل)
lit candles (enlightenment and happiness)
a mirror
decorated eggs, sometimes one for each member of the family (fertility)
a bowl with goldfish (life, and the sign of Pisces which the sun is leaving)
a bowl of water with an orange in it (the earth floating in space)
rose water for its magical cleansing powers
the national colours, for a patriotic touch
A Poetry book, such as the Shahnama or the Divan of Hafez, and/or a holy book such as the Quran