Religious Events: Ruling on the Celebration of Nawrūz in Islamic Law

Practical Laws of Islam as per the teachings of Imam Khamenei

Religious Events: Ruling on the Celebration of Nawrūz in Islamic Law

English:

Question #1456:

What is your opinion with regard to the festival of Nawrūz (the celebration of the Iranian New Year)?

In other words, is there any basis in the precepts of divine law that it has to be celebrated in parity with such festivals as ‘Īd of Fiṭr and ‘Īd of Aḍḥā, or is it a blessed day as any other holy day such as Friday, etc?

Answer #1456:

There is no reliable report that may point to the fact that Nawrūz is considered among religious festivals or holy days. However, there is no harm in celebrating or visiting one’s relatives on this day. Indeed, if is as an occasion for reinforcing ties among blood relatives, it is recommendable.

-Imam Khamenei, Practical Laws of Islam, Importance and Conditions of Religious Events