Darkness vs. Light: 5 Fascinating Tales of Nowruz Mythology

According to SAEDNEWS, Happiness, hope and new start, These are the feelings that come with the arrival of the Persian New Year, known as Nowruz. As the seasons change and spring returns, nature awakens, reminding us that it’s time to celebrate renewal. The stories of Nowruz are filled with timeless battles between light and darkness, good and evil. As we count down to this joyful occasion, we invite you to grab a bowl of Persian nuts and a cup of tea with some sweets. Join us as we take a mythological journey, all the way to the moment when the grand drum is sounded to announce the new year!

Let’s begin on a chilly winter day, when snowflakes gently fall like soft cotton.

1. Nane Sarma: Grandma Frost

Meet Nane Sarma, a magical figure in Nowruz mythology. From her icy home, she watches the joyful people getting ready for the new year. Nane Sarma shakes her blanket, sending down tiny snowflakes, and as she cleans her house for the arrival of Amoo Nowruz (the spirit of the new year), her tears become rain for the earth. The moment she sees the first signs of spring—tiny buds and fresh grass—she knows that her long-awaited meeting with Amoo Nowruz is close. On New Year's Day, Nane Sarma and Amoo Nowruz finally unite before she returns to sleep for the rest of the year.

2. Siavash: The Noble Prince

In Persian culture, fire is considered sacred and purifying. One of the beautiful traditions related to fire is called Chaharshanbe Suri, where people jump over fire to leave behind sickness and welcome health for the new year. But how did this tradition begin?

The story goes back to the epic poem, Shahnameh. Siavash, the noble prince, faced a difficult situation when his stepmother fell in love with him. When he rejected her advances, she accused him of seduction to the king. To test his honesty, the king constructed a great fire. Siavash confidently walked through the flames, proving his integrity unharmed. This event, happening on the last Tuesday of the year, is celebrated through the Chaharshanbe Suri tradition.

3. The Battle of Light and Darkness

A long time ago, dark clouds covered the sun, leaving the world in despair. In these dark times, Jamshid, the king of Iran, fought against Ahriman, the embodiment of darkness. With the help of Ahura Mazda, the god of light, Jamshid triumphed over Ahriman. As the sun broke through the clouds, life returned to the earth, marking the victory of light over darkness.

You can find this story depicted on the walls of Persepolis, where a lion (representing light and royalty) fights a bull (symbolizing darkness). It serves as a reminder of the eternal struggle between good and evil, celebrated each Nowruz.

4. Amoo Nowruz: The Spirit of the New Year

Amoo Nowruz is similar to Santa Claus, as he brings gifts during the new year. His journey begins with a visit to Nane Sarma, and then he travels everywhere to spread the warmth and joy of spring.

He is portrayed as an old man with a long white beard, dressed in white with a blue scarf. Although he has faded from many children's imaginations, the spirit of Amoo Nowruz continues to shine during this special time.

5. Haji Firooz: The Messenger of Nowruz

Haji Firooz, often seen during Nowruz celebrations, is a lively and funny character who dresses in a red costume and plays music. Although he's celebrated, his appearance has sparked some controversy because his face was traditionally painted black.

The story goes that Haji Firooz is the god of plants who journeys through the underground to rescue his wife, Anahita, the goddess of water, from Ahriman. After facing fire and hardship, he emerges with a dusty face but a big smile, having saved both his wife and the world.

While Haji Firooz's tale is enchanting, it raises important discussions about representation and race. Despite this, he plays a crucial role alongside Amoo Nowruz, bringing laughter and joy during Nowruz festivities.

Nowruz mythology is rich with stories that reflect the values and joys of Iranian culture. While some tales may have faded, their essence continues to live on in the hearts of the people, keeping the traditions of Nowruz vibrant and cherished. As we embrace the new year, let's remember the battles of light over darkness, the promise of renewal, and the stories that bind us all together. Happy Nowruz!