Commemoration of the death of Mani (216-274 CE), founder of Manichaeism. Mani died in prison at Gundeshapur, and his followers called this day his "ascension" to the realm of light.
Origin
Manichaean tradition; memorial of Prophet Mani
Historical Context
Mani was born around 216 CE near Ctesiphon (Seleucia). He was accepted at the court of Sassanid King Shapur I, but under Bahram I, at the instigation of the Zoroastrian priest Kartir, he was imprisoned and died in Gundeshapur prison (274 CE). His followers commemorated this day in the 'Bema' (throne) festival, a four-day celebration involving fasting and confession of sins.
Traditions
Bema Festival: Four-day memorial with a symbolic throne bearing Mani's portrait
Fasting and Confession: Fasting and confessing sins before the celebration
Reciting Sacred Texts: Manichaean hymns in memory of the prophet
Fun Facts
At its peak, Manichaeism spread from the Roman Empire to China, becoming one of the most widespread religions of late antiquity. Mani considered himself the "Seal of Prophets" and his teachings synthesized Zoroastrianism, Christianity, and Buddhism.
Related Events
Nowruz
Nowruz, the world's oldest celebration, marks the Persian New Year and the spring equinox. This festival symbolizes the triumph of light over darkness, warmth over cold, and life over death. Celebrated continuously for over 3,000 years since the Achaemenid era, Nowruz is observed by more than 300 million people worldwide across Iran, Central Asia, the Caucasus, and diaspora communities. Its rituals—including Haft-Seen (and its predecessor Haft-Shin), Chaharshanbe Suri, Sizdah Bedar, spring cleaning, and family visits—all symbolize renewal of nature and the human spirit.
Nowruz-e Bozorg (Great Nowruz)
The Great Nowruz (Khordad Sal) falls on the 6th of Farvardin (Khordad day). In Zoroastrian tradition, this is the birthday of Zoroaster and the spiritual peak of Nowruz. Sassanid kings held public audiences on this day.
Sizdah Bedar
Nature Day marking the end of Nowruz holidays. Families picnic outdoors, tie sabzeh (greens), and enjoy communal games.
Rapithwin Festival
Rapithwin festival on the 3rd of Farvardin celebrates the return of warmth and light after winter. Rapithwin is the Yazata of noon and summer warmth who retreats underground during winter and returns with spring.