The Traditional Haft Sin

A major tradition of Norooz is the setting of the Haft Sin (هفت سین) - the seven 'S's, seven items starting with letter S or sin (س) in Persian alphabet), which are seven specific items on a table symbolically corresponding to the seven creations and the seven holy immortals protecting them. Today they are changed and modified but some have kept their symbolism. Every family attempts to set as beautiful a Haft Sin table as they can, as it is not only of special spiritual meaning to them, but also is noticed by visitors to their house during Norouzi visitations and is a reflection of their good taste.

The following list is an example of some common Haft Seen items, though there isn't consensus as to which seven:

• Sabzeh - wheat, barley or lentil sprouts growing in a dish (symbolizing rebirth)
  
• Samanoo - a sweet pudding made from wheat germ (symbolizing affluence)
  
• Senjed - the dried fruit of the oleaster tree (love)
  
• Sir - garlic (medicine)
  
• Sib - apples, (beauty and health)
  
• Somagh - sumac berries (the color of the sunrise)
  
• Serkeh - vinegar (age and patience)
• Sonbol - the fragrant hyacinth flower (the coming of spring)
• Sekkeh - coins (prosperity and wealth)