Nowruz is not originally an Islamic tradition, but it has been embraced and integrated into various Islamic cultures over time. Its roots go back to pre-Islamic traditions, specifically those of the Zoroastrians in ancient Persia (modern-day Iran), where it marked the beginning of the new year and the arrival of spring. Nowruz was celebrated as a religious festival in the Sassanid Empire (224–651 CE), long before the rise of Islam
Nowruz celebrated by which religion ?
Nowruz has its roots embedded in zoroastrians in persia (modern day Iran), where it was celebrated as religious festival the sassanid empire (224-651 CE) , long before the rise of Islam.
Later Islamic cultures adopted nowruz, and was celebrated in islam,though there was controversy on nowruz between religious scholars in islam. Lets have a look on what is nowruz in Islam and what different religious scholars have opinion about it.
Nowruz In ISLAM
Nowruz according to Sunni Sect
The early rejections of Nowruz came from sunni scholars , like Al-Ghazali. He was known religious scholar in the 11th century and shaped sunni islamic thoughts. It was considered its basic roots were in zoroastrianism,
Al-Ghazali made his position clear: if it wasn’t something Prophet Muhammad practiced, then it shouldn’t be done. He saw Nowruz as an bid’ah.
“The Prophet didn’t establish such festivals, and neither should we. Any day that isn’t prescribed by the Shariah shouldn’t be celebrated.”
Shia Islam: Celebrating Nowruz
In shia sect, Nowruz took on completely different meaning . The religious figures like Imam ja’far al-Sadiq helped Shia Muslims as a spiritual event. This day is considered as eid.This day is connected to the day like the day of Ghadir , A day where Imam Ali was named the prophet ( PBUH) successor.
Imam Ja’far al-Sadiq said,
“Nowruz is a day for spiritual purification, a time to reflect on Allah’s blessings and remember the covenant made at Ghadir.”
On this day wearing new clothes, fasting and ghusal ( taking shower) is considered good practice.
The Safavid Dynasty: Nowruz Became an Islamic Festival
Then came the Safavid dynasty in the 16th century. The Safavids, who were passionate about Shia Muslims, wanted to make Nowruz a part of their political and religious life. They linked it to important Islamic events, particularly the Day of Ghadir. This made Nowruz more than just a Persian tradition.
Quote from Safavid rulers:
“Nowruz is not only a celebration of spring but also a time to honor Imam Ali and the true teachings of Islam.”
Umar ibn Khayyam: The Astronomical Genius
A lot of the timing for Nowruz we know today comes from Umar ibn Khayyam, a Persian mathematician and astronomer from the Seljuk Empire. He played a huge role in reforming the Persian calendar, which led to the accurate timing of Nowruz with the vernal equinox (the first day of spring). This meant that Nowruz would always be tied to nature’s renewal, as it marks the beginning of a new cycle for the earth.
Umar ibn Khayyam said,
“Nowruz is more than just a celebration of time passing; it’s a reminder that nature itself is renewing, just as we too can renew ourselves.”
Mughal Emperors: Nowruz in India
Nowruz didn’t stay confined to Persia. During the Mughal Empire, especially under Emperor Akbar, it became a huge royal celebration. Akbar embraced Nowruz and used it as an opportunity to unify his diverse empire. The Mughals celebrated with lavish feasts, music, poetry, and performances, making it a symbol of prosperity and cultural richness.
Akbar once said,
“Nowruz is a celebration of unity, of harmony, and of everything that makes our empire strong.”
Modern Iran: Nowruz as a Symbol of Resistance
In the modern era, after the Iranian Revolution of 1979 some leaders tried to lay down the importance of Nowruz,but the Iranian people showed resistance, and refused to let go the tradition,
Quote from a modern Iranian leader:
“Nowruz is more than just a holiday; it’s a symbol of our resilience, our identity, and our connection to the past.”
Conclusion: The Journey of Nowruz in Islam
Nowruz is not rooted from islam but we can say that it is celebrated in all Islamic countries and Muslims. Mostly Shia Muslims keep this celebration alive and celebrate it ,not only this but also non- muslims also celebrate this festival as a part of tradition.
