03/20/2023
The Haft-Seen table is composed of “haft” (or seven) essential symbols that represent nature, and “sin” which may have been shortened from “sini” (or trays), which held these essential symbols. The symbols break down into three from the material world (or “donyaheh mahdoodiat”), three from the immaterial world (or “donayeh maanah”) — this is the world of meaning and ideas — and one symbol that sits between and ties these two worlds together. By tradition, Iranian families take great pains to create the most beautiful Haft-Seen table that they can, for not only does it embody values both traditional and spiritual, it is also appreciated by the visitors during Nowruz visiting exchanges as a reflection of the families' aesthetic sense and good taste.
Items that start with Persian letter "س":
Sabzeh (سبزه): Sprouting /Grass: the symbol of rebirth and growth.
Samanu (سمنو): the symbol of power and strength.
Senjed (سنجد): the symbol of love.
Somāq (سماق): Sumac: the symbol of sunrise.
Serkeh (سرکه): Vinegar: the symbol of patience.
Seeb (سیب): Apple: the symbol of beauty.
Seer (سیر): Garlic: the symbol of health and medicine.
Other items that start with Persian letter "س" that are sometimes included:
Sonbol (سنبل): Hyacinth: the symbol of spring's arrival.
Sekkeh (سکه): Coin: the symbol of matter, material world, wealth and prosperity.
Saat (ساعت): Clock: the symbol of time.
Items that don't start with "س" but, nonetheless, are invariably included:
Tokhm-e Morg Rangi (تخممرغ رنگی): Eggs: the symbol of fertility.
Ayina (آینه): Mirror: the symbol of self-reflection.
Shem'a (شمع): Candle: the symbol of enlightenment.
Maahi-ye Qırmız (ماهی قرمز): Goldfish: the symbol of progress.
Ketaab (کتاب): Book: the symbol of wisdom.