Yalda Night: Eternal bond of light, love and renewal
Occasion marks the triumph of light over darkness, celebrating love, hope, and heritage
“In a tale spun from the very fabric of the cosmos, the moon, enamoured with the sun, embarked on an eternal pursuit to embrace her. Yet, fate wove a veil of slumber that kept them apart. In his longing, the moon turned to the stars, beseeching their aid, and together they orchestrated a miraculous union, granting the moon his long-sought moment with his beloved sun. As they revelled in their reunion, time slipped away, and the night grew deeper — the longest dark night of the year engulfed the world in its embrace. From that fateful eve, a sacred bond blossomed, and thus the two celestial lovers converge once a year on the longest night, the night of Yalda.” A Day That Comes Like a Theif in the Night, Yalda Night, (Abdulqader Aqeel, 2019)
Yalda Night, a centuries-old tradition, is a vibrant testament to the cultural heritage, marking the longest night of the year with family gatherings, feasts, and profound rituals. Celebrated predominantly in Iran and among Persian-speaking communities across the Middle East and Central Asia, this cherished occasion is not only a reflection of ancient customs but also a celebration of life’s cyclical nature, the triumph of light over darkness, and the enduring bond of family.
A Glimpse into Yalda’s Origins
Yalda Night, or Shab-e-Yalda, derives from ancient Persian traditions. The word “Yalda” itself means “birth,” symbolising the birth of the sun. It corresponds with the winter solstice, the longest night of the year, which usually falls between Dec. 20 and 21. The night marks a pivotal moment in the calendar, as it is believed that from this night onward, the days gradually begin to lengthen, bringing light and warmth back to the earth after the long, dark months of winter.
In a world where technological distractions often pull families in different directions, Yalda Night offers a moment of profound connection, where ancient traditions unite people in celebration of the most basic, yet most cherished, of human bonds: family.
Family, Food, and Festivities
Across Iran and other regions where the tradition is observed, homes are filled with the scent of freshly baked goods, the sound of laughter, and the clinking of tea cups. Extended families come together to share this special night, honouring both the collective memory of the past and the bright promise of the future.
One of the most iconic features of Yalda is its abundance of food. As a symbolic gesture of the season’s fertility and the promise of renewal, families gather a rich variety of seasonal fruits. Pomegranates, the emblematic fruit of Yalda, are perhaps the most recognised symbol of the night. Their deep red colour is said to represent the vitality of the sun, while the seeds within them symbolise the continuity of life.
Poetry and Storytelling
Beyond the food and family, poetry plays a central role in the celebration of Yalda Night. The great Persian poet Hafez is perhaps the most revered figure during this tradition. Families often gather to read selections from his works, interpreting the verses as a form of divination. This practice involves opening a book of Hafez’s poetry at random and reading the first verse that catches the eye, which is then interpreted as a guide or message for the year ahead.
In addition to the literary tradition, storytelling plays a vital role in Yalda celebrations. Elders often recount folktales, myths, and family stories passed down through generations, enriching the night with both wisdom and humour. The stories vary from person to person but often contain moral lessons and reflections on life’s cycles, much like the changing of seasons.
Symbolism of Light and Renewal
At its core, Yalda is about hope. The symbolism of the longest night of the year giving way to longer, brighter days resonates deeply with the human spirit. It reminds people that, just as the sun returns after the darkness, so too can joy, warmth, and prosperity return after difficult times. This theme of renewal and rebirth is universally felt, transcending cultural and religious boundaries, and is especially poignant during the cold, dark winter months.
Enduring Power of Tradition
In today’s fast-paced, globalised world, many ancient traditions are at risk of fading away. Yet Yalda Night continues to thrive, thanks to its universal themes of family, renewal, and the celebration of light. It is a living tradition that binds generations together, creating a deep sense of continuity and belonging.
As we gather with loved ones this Yalda Night, we are reminded that some things, like the warmth of family and the promise of a new dawn, are timeless. The rituals of Yalda offer a powerful antidote to the disconnection of modern life, urging us to pause, reflect, and embrace the simple joys that make us human.
So, whether in a bustling city or a quiet village, on the longest night of the year, the warmth of Yalda will continue to shine, reminding us all of the enduring light within us all.
— Maram Saleh, a Bahraini law student, finds inspiration in the realms of research and writing