Haft sin table

Haft Sîn (PerB|هفت سین) or the seven 'S's is a major tradition of Nowruz, the traditional Iranian new year. The haft sin table includes seven items specifically 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
* the Quran [ [http://www.iranica.com/articles/v11f5/v11f5016.html Iranica.com - HAFT SIN ] ]
* the Shahnama or the Divan of Hafez [ [http://www.iranica.com/articles/v11f5/v11f5016.html Iranica.com - HAFT SIN ] ]

References

External links

* [http://www.hanifworld.com/Sofrehha.htm Iranian Traditional Tables including Haft-Sin]