The Old Ways

🔥  Zoroastrian Festival · March 16-20 (5-10 days before Nowruz)

Hamaspathmaedays

Also: Farvardegan, All Souls, Days of the Fravashis

Significance

The sixth and final Gahambar — the festival of all souls. For ten days before Nowruz, the Fravashis (guardian spirits of the righteous dead) descend to visit their living families. Homes are cleaned, food is set out, prayers are offered to the ancestors. This is Zoroastrianism's version of All Souls — a time to honor the dead and receive their blessing.

Traditional observances

  • Clean the home before Nowruz to welcome the returning Fravashis
  • Set out food and water for the ancestor spirits
  • Light fires on rooftops so the spirits can find their homes
  • Pray at the graves of loved ones
  • Perform acts of charity in memory of the dead