Fire festival on Azar 9, honoring Atar (sacred fire) on the day when day-name meets month-name. Fire is one of the holiest elements in Zoroastrianism.
Origin
Zoroastrian; celebration of day-month name coincidence in Azar
Historical Context
Azaragan is celebrated on the 9th of Azar month. Fire in Zoroastrianism is one of the four sacred elements and symbolizes the light of Ahura Mazda. On this day, Zoroastrians visit fire temples and venerate the sacred fire. During the Sassanid era, there were three great fires: Adur Farnbag, Adur Gushnasp, and Adur Burzen-Mihr.
Traditions
Fire Temple Visits: Going to fire temples for prayers
Kindling Fire: Lighting fire at home
Reciting Fire Prayers: Priests recite special prayers
Offering Fragrant Wood: Bringing sandalwood and frankincense for the sacred fire
Keeping Fire Pure: Emphasis on not polluting fire
Symbols & Meanings
Fire: Symbol of Ahura Mazda's light and truth
Afrinagan: Sacred fire vessel
Fragrant Wood: Symbol of pure worship
Light: Symbol of victory over darkness
Fun Facts
Atar means fire and in Zoroastrianism symbolizes Ahura Mazda and truth. Fire must never be extinguished or polluted. Some fire temples in Iran have fires that have been burning for centuries. The fire of Adur Gushnasp was one of the most famous sacred fires of the Sassanid era.
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