Sepandarmazgan: The Ancient Persian Celebration of Love, Women, and the Earth. February 17th or 18th in the Gregorian calendar
Sepandarmazgan: The Ancient Persian Celebration of Love, Women, and the Earth
Sepandarmadzan, also known as the Persian Day of Love, is an ancient Iranian festival celebrated on the 5th of Esfand in the Yazdgerdi calendar and the 29th of Bahman in the modern solar calendar. This day honors women, the Earth, and mothers and has its roots in the Achaemenid Empire.
The renowned scholar Abū Rayḥān al-Bīrūnī wrote in The Remaining Signs of Past Centuries that the ancient Iranians regarded the 5th of Esfand as a day to celebrate women and the Earth. According to him, Sepandarmazd (Spenta Armaiti) is the Zoroastrian guardian deity of the Earth and a protector of virtuous, loyal, and righteous women. On this day, gifts were presented to women as a token of appreciation and generosity.
Origins and Symbolism
Sepandarmadgan is celebrated in honor of Spenta Armaiti, one of the Amesha Spentas in Zoroastrianism, symbolizing humility, love, devotion, and selflessness. In ancient Iranian beliefs, the Earth was viewed as a motherly figure, embodying fertility, compassion, and nurturing care.
Time of Celebration
In the ancient Iranian calendar, Sepandarmadgan was celebrated on the 5th day of the month Esfand. This corresponds to February 17th or 18th in the Gregorian calendar. The Yazdgerdi and Avestan calendars consist of 30-day months, with each day named after a deity or concept. When the names of the day and the month aligned, a celebration occurred. The 5th day of each month was named "Sepand," and thus, the 5th of Esfand marked Sepandarmadgan.
Significance of Sepandarmazgan
This festival served as a day to honor women, mothers, and love for the Earth. Men expressed their love, respect, and gratitude by presenting gifts to women, making it a day reminiscent of Valentine's Day in Iranian culture. However, many believe that Valentine's Day was inspired by Sepandarmadgan, given its earlier origins.
Ancient Persian families prepared offerings and gifts for virtuous and humble women in their families to express gratitude for their yearlong dedication. Women also celebrated this day by wearing new clothes and shoes, and those who were kind, chaste, and had raised virtuous children received special recognition and presents.
Customs of Sepandarmadgan
- Giving Gifts to Women and Mothers: Men honored women with gifts, expressing their love and respect.
- Celebration and Festivities: The day included joyous events, music, and dances.
- Appreciation of the Earth: People cared for the Earth, visited farmlands, and acknowledged the blessings of nature.
- Cooking Traditional Foods: Special local and traditional dishes were prepared and shared.
On this day, women were relieved of their daily chores, with men and boys taking over their responsibilities. Women were not only recipients of gifts but also enjoyed a symbolic day of leadership, where men would follow their guidance.
Cultural Importance
Sepandarmadgan highlights Iran's rich cultural heritage, promoting love, kindness, and respect for nature and humanity. It underscores the significance of women, mothers, and the Earth in both social and spiritual aspects of life.
Revival in Modern Times
In recent years, Sepandarmadgan has reemerged as a cultural identity marker for Iranians. Many have adopted it as a local alternative to Valentine's Day, aiming to pass its traditions and values to future generations.
Sepandarmadgan is not just a celebration of love but also a tribute to Iranian culture and the profound connection between humanity and nature.
