The Persian calendar preserves an ancient legacy tied to the region's seasonal and cultural rhythms.
Key Differences Between Gregorian, Islamic, and Persian Calendars
| Feature | Gregorian Calendar | Islamic Calendar | Persian Calendar |
| Type | Solar | Lunar | Solar |
| Year Length | ~365.24 days | ~354 days | ~365.24 days |
| Month Length | Fixed (28–31 days) | Varies (29–30 days) | Fixed for each month |
| Leap Year | Every 4 years (*) | No leap year | Once every 4 or 5 years |
| Start of Year | January 1 | Muharram 1 | Nowruz (Spring Equinox) |
| Global Use | Worldwide | Religious purposes | Iran, Afghanistan |
| * except century years not divisible by 400 |
🟩 🟥 لحظه تحویل سال 1404/۱۴۰۴: به وقت تهران ساعت 12 و 31 دقیقه ظهر، روز پنج شنبه 30 اسفند 1403 است.
The Persian New Year, known as Nowruz, marks the beginning of the year in the Persian calendar. It coincides with the vernal equinox, when day and night are approximately equal, signaling the start of spring in the Northern Hemisphere.
Calculation of Nowruz Timing
The exact moment of Nowruz, referred to as "Saal Tahvil", is determined through precise astronomical calculations:
Astronomical Basis: Nowruz aligns with the vernal equinox, the exact time when the Sun crosses the celestial equator moving northward. This event is calculated based on Earth's position relative to the Sun.
Time Determination: Astronomers compute the exact time of the equinox, which varies each year. If this moment occurs before midday (12:00 PM) Tehran time, the same day is designated as the first day of Farvardin (the first month of the Persian calendar). If it occurs after midday, the following day becomes the first day of Farvardin.
Ghandchi
The names of the months, days, and seasons in the Persian calendar have deep historical roots, dating back to ancient Persia and the Achaemenid Empire (circa 550–330 BCE). These names were shaped by Zoroastrianism, the dominant religion of pre-Islamic Persia, and its sacred texts, the Avesta. Below is an estimation of their origins and the influences that shaped them:
1. Origins of the Month and Day Names
Historical Roots:
The month and day names are derived from Avestan terms found in Zoroastrian scriptures, particularly the "Zoroastrian calendar," which was developed to align with agricultural cycles and religious observances.
Approximate Era: The Zoroastrian calendar is believed to have been formalized during the Achaemenid Empire (6th century BCE).
Purpose: The names honored Zoroastrian divinities (Amesha Spentas) and natural elements essential to life, such as water, fire, and earth.
Key Influencers:
Zarathustra (Zoroaster): The founder of Zoroastrianism, whose teachings emphasized the significance of nature and celestial cycles.
Achaemenid Kings: Promoted the Zoroastrian calendar as a unifying system across their vast empire.
2. Seasons in the Persian Calendar
Pre-Zoroastrian Influence:
The recognition of four seasons likely predated Zoroastrianism and arose from the agrarian lifestyle of early Persian societies. Seasonal names reflect environmental observations and linguistic evolution from ancient Indo-Iranian cultures.
Formalization in Zoroastrianism:
Zoroastrianism codified the seasons into a structured calendar, emphasizing harmony between humanity and nature.
Seasonal Festivals: Festivals like Nowruz (spring), Tirgan (summer), Mehregan (autumn), and Yalda (winter) demonstrate this connection.
Approximate Era: Recognition of seasons as formal divisions in the calendar likely dates back to at least the Bronze Age (3rd millennium BCE) in the Iranian Plateau, though the specific names came later with the Zoroastrian calendar.
3. Post-Islamic Influence
After the Islamic conquest of Persia (7th century CE), the use of Zoroastrian names persisted among Iranians despite the introduction of the Islamic lunar calendar.
The Samanid Dynasty (9th–10th century CE) played a key role in reviving Persian culture and ensuring the continued use of these ancient names.
Jalali Calendar Reform (11th century CE): Under the Seljuk Empire, a group of scholars, including the famous mathematician Omar Khayyam, reformed the Persian calendar. They retained the ancient month and season names, aligning them with solar cycles for greater accuracy.
The continued use of these names showcases the resilience of Persian culture and its ability to blend pre-Islamic and Islamic elements. Today, the names are a testament to Iran’s rich history, preserving traditions that date back thousands of years.
In the Persian calendar, the year is divided into four seasons, each with its own unique name reflecting the natural and cultural significance of the time. These names have their roots in Persian language and tradition, closely tied to the country’s agricultural and environmental rhythms. Here’s an overview of the Persian season names:
1. Bahar (بهار) – Spring
Meaning: "Bahar" translates to "spring" or "blossom" in Persian.
Duration: Farvardin, Ordibehesht, Khordad (March 21–June 20 approx.).
Significance:
Represents renewal, growth, and the rebirth of nature.
It begins with Nowruz, the Persian New Year, a major cultural celebration.
Cultural Notes:
Marked by blooming flowers, green landscapes, and festivals celebrating new beginnings.
A season of planting and agriculture.
2. Tabestan (تابستان) – Summer
Meaning: "Tabestan" derives from "tab" (heat), meaning "the season of heat."
Duration: Tir, Mordad, Shahrivar (June 21–September 22 approx.).
Significance:
Associated with warmth, sunshine, and agricultural growth.
Farmers harvest their crops during this time.
Cultural Notes:
Celebrated with outdoor gatherings, picnics, and water-related festivals like Tirgan.
A time for vacations and family trips in modern times.
3. Payiz (پاییز) – Autumn
Meaning: "Payiz" translates to "fall" or "autumn," evoking the image of falling leaves.
Duration: Mehr, Aban, Azar (September 23–December 20 approx.).
Significance:
Symbolizes balance and preparation as nature transitions.
Known for harvests and cooling temperatures.
Cultural Notes:
Mehregan, a festival of light and gratitude, is celebrated during this season.
Farmers prepare for winter by preserving food and finishing the harvest.
4. Zemestan (زمستان) – Winter
Meaning: "Zemestan" is derived from "zemi," meaning "cold" in ancient Persian, signifying the coldest season.
Duration: Dey, Bahman, Esfand (December 21–March 20 approx.).
Significance:
Represents dormancy, rest, and reflection.
Snowfall and cold dominate the season in many regions.
Cultural Notes:
Yalda Night, the longest night of the year, is a major winter celebration involving family gatherings, poetry, and storytelling.
A time for preparing for the upcoming year and reflecting on spiritual values.
Harmony with Nature: Persian season names reflect the close connection between traditional Persian culture and natural cycles.
Cultural Celebrations: Each season features unique festivals and traditions that highlight its significance.
Linguistic Simplicity: The names are straightforward yet poetic, conveying the essence of each season.
The Persian calendar consists of 12 months, each with unique names derived from ancient Persian (Avestan) traditions and reflecting natural phenomena, seasonal changes, or cultural significance. Here's an overview of the names of the months and their meanings:
1. Farvardin (فروردین)
Meaning: Derived from "Fravashi," referring to guardian spirits or divine entities in Zoroastrianism.
Significance: Represents new beginnings, as it coincides with Nowruz (Persian New Year) and the arrival of spring.
Cultural Notes: A time for renewal, family gatherings, and celebrating nature’s rebirth.
2. Ordibehesht (اردیبهشت)
Meaning: From "Asha Vahishta," meaning "ultimate truth" or "best righteousness" in Avestan.
Significance: Symbolizes purity, truth, and the blossoming of nature in spring.
Cultural Notes: Associated with beauty and perfection, as gardens and flowers reach full bloom.
3. Khordad (خرداد)
Meaning: From "Haurvatat," meaning "wholeness" or "completeness" in Avestan.
Significance: Highlights health and harmony, reflecting the balance of spring as it transitions to summer.
Cultural Notes: A time for appreciating natural abundance, particularly water resources.
4. Tir (تیر)
Meaning: Derived from "Tishtrya," the Zoroastrian deity associated with rain and fertility.
Significance: Marks the start of summer and honors rain's importance in agriculture.
Cultural Notes: Celebrated with "Tirgan," a festival of water featuring rituals like splashing water and storytelling.
5. Mordad (مرداد)
Meaning: From "Amurdad," meaning "immortality" in Avestan.
Significance: Represents the peak of summer and vitality.
Cultural Notes: Despite the heat, it’s a month of life and resilience.
6. Shahrivar (شهریور)
Meaning: From "Khshathra Vairya," meaning "desirable dominion" or "ideal kingdom" in Avestan.
Significance: Symbolizes strength, leadership, and harvest.
Cultural Notes: A time of preparing for autumn while enjoying the summer's bounty.
7. Mehr (مهر)
Meaning: Derived from "Mithra," the Zoroastrian deity of covenants, love, and friendship.
Significance: Coincides with the autumn equinox, symbolizing balance, partnership, and kindness.
Cultural Notes: Known for "Mehregan," a festival of gratitude and light, similar to Thanksgiving.
8. Aban (آبان)
Meaning: From "Apas," meaning "water" in Avestan.
Significance: Highlights the life-giving properties of water during the rainy autumn season.
Cultural Notes: Often linked to rituals and festivals honoring water and its sanctity.
9. Azar (آذر)
Meaning: From "Atar," meaning "fire" in Avestan.
Significance: Reflects warmth and light as winter begins.
Cultural Notes: Fire has a sacred role in Zoroastrianism, symbolizing purification and energy.
10. Dey (دی)
Meaning: Derived from "Dae," meaning "creator" or "divine authority" in Avestan.
Significance: Represents renewal and the divine order in the midst of winter.
Cultural Notes: Celebrated with mid-winter festivals like Yalda, marking the longest night of the year.
11. Bahman (بهمن)
Meaning: From "Vohu Manah," meaning "good mind" or "pure intention" in Avestan.
Significance: Represents kindness, wisdom, and compassion.
Cultural Notes: Encourages reflection on moral values during the cold winter.
12. Esfand (اسفند)
Meaning: From "Spenta Armaiti," meaning "holy devotion" or "earthly kindness" in Avestan.
Significance: Symbolizes humility, fertility, and preparation for spring.
Cultural Notes: Associated with honoring women, the earth, and agriculture.
Seasonal Alignment: Each month aligns closely with the natural and agricultural cycles in Persia (modern-day Iran).
Zoroastrian Roots: Many names derive from Zoroastrian deities or concepts, reflecting the calendar's ancient origins.
Festivals and Traditions: Each month carries cultural significance tied to Persian festivals and rituals, many of which are still celebrated today.
The Persian calendar, or the Solar Hijri calendar, features days of the week with names derived from Persian and Islamic traditions. Each day has a specific name that reflects cultural, historical, and linguistic elements. Here’s an explanation of each day:
1. Shanbeh (شنبه) – Saturday
The word "Shanbeh" originates from Middle Persian, meaning the first day of the week. Traditionally considered the start of the workweek in Iran. Many businesses and schools begin their week on this day, much like Monday in Western cultures.
2. Yekshanbeh (یکشنبه) – Sunday
"Yek" means "one," and "Shanbeh" refers to the first day, making it "the first after Shanbeh." Represents the second day of the week. While it is the second working day, it's also a day for family gatherings in some regions.
3. Doshanbeh (دوشنبه) – Monday
"Do" means "two," so "Doshanbeh" is the second day after Shanbeh. A typical workday, often associated with getting into the weekly routine.
4. Seshanbeh (سهشنبه) – Tuesday
"Se" means "three," referring to the third day after Shanbeh. Like other weekdays, it’s a working day but sometimes considered a favorable day for tasks requiring effort.
5. Chaharshanbeh (چهارشنبه) – Wednesday
"Chahar" means "four," marking the fourth day after Shanbeh. Known as a preparation day for the weekend in Persian culture. On the last Wednesday of the year, "Chaharshanbeh Suri" is celebrated with fire-jumping ceremonies.
6. Panjshanbeh (پنجشنبه) – Thursday
"Panj" means "five," denoting the fifth day after Shanbeh. Often a half-day for work or school as people prepare for the weekend. A day for visiting graves and offering prayers for the deceased.
7. Jomeh (جمعه) – Friday
Derived from Arabic, meaning "gathering". The official weekend day and a holy day for Muslims. Friday prayers (Namaz-e-Jomeh) are an essential part of the day. Families often spend Fridays together, making it a day of relaxation and leisure.
Interesting Aspects of Persian Weekdays
The names of the days highlight a mix of ancient Persian linguistic roots and Islamic influences.
Unlike the Gregorian week, which places the weekend on Saturday and Sunday, the Persian week culminates in Friday, emphasizing community and spirituality.
The Persian calendar's structure ensures its cultural relevance while maintaining alignment with astronomical calculations.
Here is a list of special days in the Persian calendar, along with brief details for each:
1. Nowruz (نوروز) – Persian New Year (1st Farvardin)
Celebrated on the spring equinox, Nowruz marks the beginning of the new year and the arrival of spring.
Families clean their homes (Khaneh Tekani), prepare a Haft-Sin table, and visit relatives.
Rooted in Zoroastrianism, it is one of the oldest and most widely celebrated festivals in Persian culture.
2. Sizdah Bedar (سیزده بدر) – Nature Day (13th Farvardin)
On the 13th day of Farvardin, Iranians head outdoors to picnic and spend time in nature.
The day is about avoiding bad luck associated with the number 13 and connecting with the environment.
Families traditionally throw Sabzeh (sprouted grains from the Haft-Sin table) into running water to symbolize renewal and letting go of negativity.
3. Jashn-e Farvardingan (جشن فروردینگان) – Commemoration of Souls (19th Day of Farvardin)
this festival is dedicated to Fravashis, the guardian spirits of ancestors. Families visit graves, offer food, and perform rituals to honor and connect with departed loved ones. It reflects the Zoroastrian belief in respecting and remembering the past.
4. Jashn-e Ardibeheshtgan (جشن اردیبهشتگان) – Festival of Truth and Fire (3rd Day of Ordibehesht)
this celebration is dedicated to Ardibehesht, the Zoroastrian concept of truth and light. Fire temples host ceremonies where people pray for clarity, honesty, and righteousness. The festival emphasizes the importance of moral purity and justice.
5. Jashn-e Khordadgan (جشن خردادگان) – Celebration of Abundance (6th Day of Khordad)
this festival honors Khordad, the guardian of water and prosperity. People gather near water sources to offer prayers and express gratitude for health and abundance. It’s a time to celebrate nature’s blessings, especially the role of water in life.
6. Tirgan (تیرگان) – Water Festival (13th Tir)
Tirgan celebrates Tishtrya, the Zoroastrian rain deity, and honors water's life-giving properties.
Activities include water splashing, wearing rainbow-colored wristbands, and storytelling about Arash the Archer.
It’s an ancient festival observed in midsummer, particularly in arid regions.
7. Chelleh-ye Tamoouz (چله تموز) – Summer Solstice Celebration (Mid-Tir)
Marked in mid-Tir, this event signifies the hottest part of the year and the Sun’s peak energy. It is celebrated with outdoor gatherings, seasonal fruits, and reflection on the balance of nature. The festival highlights the importance of the Sun in sustaining life.
8. Jashn-e Amordadgan (جشن امردادگان) – Festival of Immortality (7th Day of Amordad)
this festival honors Amordad, the Zoroastrian principle of eternal life and prosperity. Offerings of flowers and fruits are made, and people pray for enduring blessings and continuity. It serves as a reminder of the timeless connection between humans and divine forces.
9. Jashn-e Ab-Pashan (جشن آبپاشان یا آبریزگان) – Water Sprinkling Festival (13th Day of Mordad)
this festival honors water as a purifying and life-giving force. It involves water splashing, prayers, and rituals to show gratitude for this vital resource. The festival has roots in Zoroastrian traditions and serves as a reminder of water’s sacred importance in Persian culture.
10. Jashn-e Shahrivargan (جشن شهریورگان) – Festival of Dominion (4th Day of Shahrivar)
Observed on the 4th day of Shahrivar, this festival celebrates kindness, self-control, and leadership. Acts of charity, community meals, and reflections on service to others are central to the celebrations. The day emphasizes the responsibility of individuals in creating a harmonious society.
11. Mehregan (مهرگان) – Festival of Light and Gratitude (16th Mehr)
Dedicated to Mithra, the deity of friendship and contracts, Mehregan celebrates gratitude and justice.
People gather to feast, exchange gifts, and light candles to honor the balance of day and night during autumn.
Historically, it was as significant as Nowruz and remains a cultural symbol of kindness.
12. Jashn-e Nilofar (جشن نیلوفر) – Lotus Festival (6th Day of Aban)
this festival celebrates the lotus flower, symbolizing purity, renewal, and the connection between water and life. Communities offer lotus flowers to water sources and hold ceremonies to honor nature’s beauty. It reflects the harmony between humans and the environment.
13. Jashn-e Abangan (جشن آبانگان) – Festival of Water (10th Day of Aban)
this festival honors Anahita, the goddess of water, fertility, and healing. Prayers and offerings are made at water sources, asking for rain and agricultural prosperity. It’s a joyous occasion celebrating water’s role in sustaining life.
14. Jashn-e Azargan (جشن آذرگان) – Fire Festival (9th Day of Azar)
this festival is dedicated to fire as a sacred element in Zoroastrianism. People gather in fire temples, light ceremonial flames, and express gratitude for warmth and light. The festival underscores fire’s spiritual and practical importance.
15. Yalda Night (شب یلدا) – Winter Solstice Celebration (30th Azar)
The longest night of the year, Yalda symbolizes the victory of light over darkness.
Families gather to share fruits (especially pomegranates and watermelons), nuts, and recite Persian poetry.
The festival has Zoroastrian roots and emphasizes hope, renewal, and family bonds.
11. Jashn-e Khorram Rooz (جشن خرم روز) – Joyous Day (1st Day of Dey)
this celebration marks the end of darkness after the longest night (Yalda) and the renewal of life. Families gather for feasts, storytelling, and the lighting of candles to welcome the increasing daylight. It symbolizes the triumph of light over darkness.
17. Jashn-e Bahmangan (جشن بهمنگان) – Festival of Good Thoughts (2nd Day of Bahman)
this festival is dedicated to Bahman, representing good thoughts and animal welfare. People enjoy vegetarian feasts, perform charitable acts, and reflect on ethical living. It promotes kindness and a harmonious relationship with nature and animals.
18. Jashn-e-Sadeh (جشن سده) – Festival of Fire (10th Bahman)
Celebrated 50 days before Nowruz, Sadeh honors fire as a sacred element and its importance in human survival.
Large bonfires are lit to symbolize the triumph of light over darkness and the approach of spring.
The festival is rooted in Zoroastrianism and agricultural traditions.
19. Sepandarmazgan (سپندارمزگان) – Day of Love and Earth (5th Esfand)
An ancient festival dedicated to Spenta Armaiti, the goddess of love, devotion, and the earth.
It’s considered the Persian equivalent of Valentine’s Day, where people honor love, kindness, and women.
Gifts and tokens of affection are exchanged, and the earth's fertility is celebrated.
20. Chaharshanbeh Suri (چهارشنبهسوری) – Festival of Fire (Last Wednesday of Esfand)
On the eve of the last Wednesday of the year, people jump over bonfires to cleanse themselves of negativity and welcome health and happiness.
Songs and rituals accompany this Zoroastrian tradition, which predates Islam.
Fire symbolizes purification, renewal, and the end of the year’s hardships.
The Persian Zodiac has roots in ancient Iranian astrology, blending Zoroastrian beliefs with celestial observations.
While less universally recognized than the Western or Chinese systems, the Persian zodiac offers a rich cultural perspective.
The Persian zodiac aligns closely with ancient Zoroastrian cosmology, emphasizing the balance between celestial bodies and human life.
These signs were influenced by Babylonian and Hellenistic astrology during Persia’s imperial exchanges, blending Greek zodiac elements with Persian interpretations.
The Persian calendar’s zodiac reflects the agrarian and seasonal cycles of the Iranian Plateau, making it deeply connected to nature.
Here’s an overview of the 12 Persian zodiac signs, corresponding to the solar months of the Persian calendar:
1. Farvardin (Hamal/Aries) – March 21 to April 20
Symbol: The Ram
Traits: Brave, enthusiastic, and energetic. Individuals born under this sign are pioneers and natural leaders.
Weakness: Can be impulsive or overly competitive.
2. Ordibehesht (Sor/Taurus) – April 21 to May 21
Symbol: The Bull
Traits: Patient, reliable, and grounded. They value beauty, art, and comfort in life.
Weakness: Stubbornness and resistance to change.
3. Khordad (Jowza/Gemini) – May 22 to June 21
Symbol: The Twins
Traits: Adaptable, curious, and sociable. Those born in Khordad are excellent communicators and love exploring new ideas.
Weakness: Indecision and restlessness.
4. Tir (Saratan/Cancer) – June 22 to July 22
Symbol: The Crab
Traits: Emotional, nurturing, and protective. Tir-born individuals are deeply connected to family and home.
Weakness: Mood swings and over-sensitivity.
5. Mordad (Asad/Leo) – July 23 to August 22
Symbol: The Lion
Traits: Charismatic, confident, and creative. They thrive in leadership roles and love attention.
Weakness: Vanity and occasional arrogance.
6. Shahrivar (Sunbula/Virgo) – August 23 to September 22
Symbol: The Virgin
Traits: Practical, analytical, and detail-oriented. Shahrivar-born individuals excel at problem-solving and organization.
Weakness: Perfectionism and overthinking.
7. Mehr (Mezan/Libra) – September 23 to October 22
Symbol: The Scales
Traits: Fair-minded, sociable, and artistic. Mehr-born individuals value harmony, beauty, and justice.
Weakness: Indecisiveness and avoiding confrontation.
8. Aban (Aqrab/Scorpio) – October 23 to November 21
Symbol: The Scorpion
Traits: Intense, passionate, and determined. Those born in Aban have a deep emotional and intuitive side.
Weakness: Jealousy and secrecy.
9. Azar (Qaws/Sagittarius) – November 22 to December 21
Symbol: The Archer
Traits: Adventurous, optimistic, and independent. Azar-born individuals love exploring and learning new things.
Weakness: Impulsiveness and bluntness.
10. Dey (Jaddi/Capricorn) – December 22 to January 19
Symbol: The Goat
Traits: Ambitious, disciplined, and practical. They excel in achieving long-term goals and managing responsibilities.
Weakness: Can be overly serious or pessimistic.
11. Bahman (Dalv/Aquarius) – January 20 to February 18
Symbol: The Water Bearer
Traits: Innovative, independent, and humanitarian. Bahman-born individuals are forward-thinking and value freedom.
Weakness: Detached or unpredictable behavior.
12. Esfand (Hut/Pisces) – February 19 to March 20
Symbol: The Fish
Traits: Compassionate, artistic, and intuitive. Esfand-born individuals are dreamers with a strong connection to emotions and spirituality.
Weakness: Escapism and being overly idealistic.
Next Period Time often refers to the prediction of a recurring event or phase, such as menstrual cycles, economic cycles, or celestial phenomena. The calculation involves understanding the periodicity (cycle length) and current status of the event. Some benefits of knowing your or your partner's Menstrual Cycle:
Health Monitoring:
Detect irregularities that could indicate health issues like polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) or endometriosis.
Track hormonal imbalances.
Family Planning:
Identify fertile windows (around ovulation) for conception.
Use cycle tracking as a natural contraceptive method.
Preparedness:
Anticipate and manage symptoms like cramps or mood changes.
Plan activities or travel around period dates.
Optimizing Productivity and Fitness:
Some phases (like the follicular phase) may boost energy, while others (like the menstrual phase) may require rest and self-care.
Steps to Calculate the Next Period Time
Track the Average Cycle Length:
The menstrual cycle usually ranges from 21 to 35 days, with an average of 28 days.
Use a period tracker app or a calendar to determine the average length over 3-6 months.
Record the Last Period Start Date:
Note the first day of your last menstrual period.
Add the Average Cycle Length:
Next Period Date = Last Period Start Date + Average Cycle Length.
Example: If your last period began on January 1 and your cycle is 28 days, your next period will start on January 29.
Adjust for Variability:
If your cycle is irregular, use a range (e.g., 25–30 days) to estimate the window for your next period.
Phases of the Menstrual Cycle
The menstrual cycle consists of four phases:
Menstrual Phase (Days 1–5):
Shedding of the uterine lining (menstrual bleeding).
Hormones like estrogen and progesterone are at their lowest.
Follicular Phase (Days 1–13):
Overlaps with the menstrual phase initially.
Estrogen levels rise, and follicles in the ovaries mature.
Ovulation Phase (Day 14):
The release of a mature egg from the ovary.
Hormone LH (luteinizing hormone) surges.
Luteal Phase (Days 15–28):
The body prepares for a potential pregnancy.
Progesterone increases, thickening the uterine lining.
If no fertilization occurs, hormone levels drop, leading to the next menstrual phase.
