In ancient times, when the secrets of evolution and Earth’s natural elements had not yet been discovered by humans, Persians chose gods inspired by nature. Among these gods, the sun had a special and important place due to how it makes life possible and has helped to save humans from darkness, cold, sorrow, and hunger.

Every year, ancient Persians prepared their cities for large celebrations as “Yalda” grew closer: they decorated evergreen cypress and pine trees, wore colorful clothes, and prepared food and sweets that reminded them of the color of the sun. Then on the night of Yalda, the longest night of the year, they would celebrate and dance until dawn in their fire temples, atop hills, on streets, in alleys, and on rooftops.

The ancient Persians believed that every year, as the last night of autumn ended, the sun is born again and commands the end of darkness and cold as the embodiment of light, warmth, and life. It was with this belief that Yalda has also been given significance to Iranians: through the inevitable victory of light, kindness, and justice over darkness, violence, and injustice.

Unfortunately, during these last decades of bitterness, darkness, and anguish, Iranians have suffered under the rule of a savage and brutal government, and Yalda has earned a special meaning. As once again we celebrate our festival of Yalda, we await the arrival of the sun and the light of freedom to erase darkness and injustice of this regime from our land.

Let us this year enthusiastically celebrate the rebirth of the sun once again, next to the evergreen Yalda tree in our homes, alleys, and cities, knowing that victory over darkness and injustice is inevitable.

Shokooh Mirzadegi

December 2024 / Azar 1403

wchv.org

www.savepasargad.com