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.
Origin
Zoroastrian; festival celebrating the return of warmth and light
Historical Context
Rapithwin (Avestan: Rapithwina) is the Yazata of noon and guardian of the midday period. In Zoroastrian time-keeping, the day is divided into five watches (gah), with Rapithwin guarding the second. During winter months, Rapithwin's name is removed from rituals and replaced with 'Havan' for the second watch.
Traditions
Rapithwin Prayers: Reciting special prayers at noon
Celebrating Warmth: Rejoicing at the end of winter
Fire Lighting: Kindling fire as a symbol of the return of light
Fun Facts
In Zoroastrianism, Rapithwin is the guardian of the noon period (from noon to sunset). According to ancient belief, during winter Rapithwin descends underground to keep plant roots warm and returns to earth with the arrival of spring.
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.
Soroush Rooz
Day honoring Sraosha (Soroush), the Yazata of conscience and messenger of Ahura Mazda. Sraosha guards souls at night and is one of three judges at the Chinvat Bridge, uniquely accompanying souls on their journey to the afterlife.