The people of southern Iran are known for their kindness and hospitality. A ceremony called **Gerga'oon** is held in Ahvaz during the month of Ramadan, during which children are given gifts. Join Saed News to learn more about this tradition.
Wherever we place our hand on the map of Iran, our hearts are captivated by its vibrant culture and diverse traditions. As we travel across the country, if we truly open our eyes and embrace our curiosity, we can learn as much as several books would teach us. But these learnings are rooted in the people and the beliefs interwoven into their culture.
A special ceremony takes place in Khuzestan, Iran, on the night of the 15th of Ramadan, coinciding with the birth anniversary of Imam Hasan Mojtaba (PBUH). This age-old tradition holds such significance that in 2016, it was officially registered as part of Iran’s National Heritage, reminding us to preserve and cherish it. The ceremony is known as Gerga'oon or Gergee'aan.
The Gerga’oon Ceremony
Gerga’oon or Gergee’aan is a traditional ceremony popular among the Arab communities of Khuzestan, Hormozgan Province, Iraq, Bahrain, Kuwait, Eastern Saudi Arabia (Al-Ahsa and Qatif), and the United Arab Emirates. In September 2016, it was officially recognized as an intangible cultural heritage of Iran’s Arab population. This historic tradition is celebrated on the 15th night of Ramadan in Arab-inhabited areas, primarily by children.
The origins of this celebration are subject to various narratives, the most prominent of which ties it to the birth of Hasan ibn Ali, the second Imam of the Shi’a. The ceremony is observed annually in many Iranian cities, but it has only been symbolically showcased twice as part of the Quran Exhibition’s sideline events at the Museum of Contemporary Art in Ahvaz.
Gerga’oon Festivities
On the night of the 15th of Ramadan, Arab children in Khuzestan dress in traditional clothing after breaking their fast. Boys wear dishdashas, while girls don Arabic-style headscarves, and they roam the alleyways of Arab towns and villages. Carrying pre-prepared bags hung around their necks, they visit homes to collect gifts and Ramadan sweets.
It is worth noting that Eid al-Fitr holds greater spiritual significance for Khuzestan Arabs than the national holiday of Nowruz. They deeply honor this occasion. The Gerga’oon festivities, as the name suggests, are accompanied by various chants among Arab Muslims. For example:
Kuwaiti children chant, “Gerga’oon, Gerga’oon, between Sha’ban and Ramadan.”
Emirati children sing, “Give us God’s right, may God be pleased with you.”
In other Arab countries, children chant, “Give us gifts so that God grants you a pilgrimage to Mecca.”
Arab children in Khuzestan sing the following behind doors:
"Ma jeena ya Ma jeena, hal al-kis wa antina"
(“We have come, we have come, open your bag and give us gifts and sweets.”)
If residents are on their rooftops, the children sing:
"Ya ahl al-sutooh, tantoonah law naroooh"
(“Oh people on the rooftop, will you give us gifts or should we leave?”)
The children often divide into two groups. One group chants, “Gerga’oon wa Gerga’oon”, and the other responds, “Allah ya’tikum rad’aan” (“May God bless you with children.”). Alternatively, they sing, “Allah yikhalli awleedkum” (“May God protect your little ones.”).
Homeowners give out treats such as almonds, sweets, or cash to the children, who carry baskets to collect their gifts. The celebration often continues late into the 15th night of Ramadan.
Gerga’oon Chants
The chants vary by city in the southern regions where the ceremony is held. However, the central theme is consistent: children conclude their songs by wishing health and prosperity upon the homeowners. This shared sentiment extends across the Gulf Arab nations.
Children, with their unguarded emotions, express happiness when treated kindly. In the Gerga’oon tradition, if homeowners give gifts or sweets, they are met with wishes of health and abundance. However, if homeowners are unkind, they may face negative reactions from the children.
The Origins of Gerga’oon
The term Gerga’oon is interpreted in several ways. Some suggest it derives from “Qar’ al-Bab” (knocking on doors) since children knock on doors to receive treats. Another theory links it to “Qurrat al-‘Ayn” (delight of the eye), celebrating the birth of Hasan ibn Ali and the joy of his grandfather, Prophet Muhammad, at the birth of his first grandson. This tradition spread annually among Muslims in certain areas, especially in Khuzestan.
Final Thoughts
Exploring Iran reveals unique traditions and vibrant customs that deserve our attention. In the past, people gathered for celebrations, fostering a sense of unity and shared joy. Among their traditions, they paid special attention to children, allowing them to play a central role in ceremonies.
We hope these traditions will not be forgotten and that we’ll continue to learn about and share them. If your region has a unique Ramadan tradition, let us know!
