Sofreh Haft-Seen or Haft-sin is one of the oldest and most important symbols of the Persian New Year (Nowruz), which has been laid out in Iranian homes for over three thousand years. This tradition has deep roots in Iranian culture and symbolizes the beginning of the new year, prosperity, health, and the rejuvenation of nature.
Haft-Seen consists of seven items, each beginning with the Persian letter “S,” representing different aspects of life:
1️⃣ Sabzeh (Sprouts) 🌱 → Symbol of rebirth and greenery
2️⃣ Senjed (Oleaster) 🍂 → Symbol of love and family bonds
3️⃣ Samanu (Sweet Pudding) 🍲 → Symbol of abundance and blessing
4️⃣ Seer (Garlic) 🧄 → Symbol of health and protection against illness
5️⃣ Serkeh (Vinegar) 🍶 → Symbol of patience and endurance
6️⃣ Sib (Apple) 🍏 → Symbol of beauty and health
7️⃣ Sekkeh (Coins) 🪙 → Symbol of wealth and prosperity
Additionally, other items are often placed on the table:
✔ A sacred book (Avesta, Shahnameh, or Quran) 📖 → Symbol of wisdom and knowledge
✔ Mirror → Symbol of clarity and reflection
✔ Goldfish 🐟 → Symbol of life and movement
✔ Colored eggs 🥚 → Symbol of fertility and creation
✔ Candles 🕯 → Symbol of light and enlightenment
While the core elements of Haft-Seen remain consistent across Iran, slight regional variations exist:
🔹 In Khorasan, some families add sweets and rock candy.
🔹 In Shiraz, bitter orange blossoms are sometimes included.
🔹 In Gilan and Mazandaran, the table may be decorated with white fish and rice.
Some historians believe that after the advent of Islam, wine was removed from the table. As other elements changed over time, the tradition transitioned into Haft-Seen.
Haft-Seen remains one of the most enduring symbols of Nowruz, maintaining its place among Iranians for over three millennia. This tradition is a blend of Zoroastrian customs, Iranian beliefs, and historical transformations, continuously symbolizing renewal, prosperity, and hope for the future.