Jumping Over Fire: The Ancient Tradition of Chaharshanbe Suri

Every year, just before Nowruz, the Persian New Year, Iranians celebrate Chaharshanbe Suri (چهارشنبه سوری), a lively and ancient festival that marks the last Wednesday night of the year. Known as the "Festival of Fire," Chaharshanbe Suri is a time of joyous celebration, communal gatherings, and rituals of purification and renewal. As people jump over bonfires and indulge in festive foods, the celebration has deep roots in both Zoroastrianism and Persian folk traditions. In this blog post, we will delve into the history, customs, and significance of Chaharshanbe Suri, an exciting and symbolic event that is a cherished part of Persian culture.

🔥 What is Chaharshanbe Suri?

The name Chaharshanbe Suri translates to "Wednesday Red," with Chaharshanbe meaning Wednesday and Suri referring to red, the color associated with fire. It is celebrated on the last Wednesday before Nowruz, the Persian New Year, and marks the culmination of a series of traditions designed to purify and prepare individuals and families for the upcoming year. Chaharshanbe Suri is a festival of fire—a symbol of purification, strength, and the triumph of light over darkness.

The origins of Chaharshanbe Suri are thought to date back to ancient Zoroastrian times, making it one of the oldest Persian traditions still widely practiced today. In Zoroastrianism, fire is considered sacred, representing the divine presence of Ahura Mazda. The festival celebrates the victory of light over evil and the purification of both body and spirit through the …