In Zoroastrianism, one of the ancient religions of Persia, there is a story called the Fravardin Yast that is celebrated by followers. The Fravardin Yast is a special prayer that honors the Fravashis, which are like guardian angels or spirits of our ancestors who watch over us and protect us.
- What is the Fravardin Yast and who is it dedicated to?
- Who are the Fravashis and what role do they play in the story?
- Why is the celebration of Fravardin Yast important to Zoroastrians?
- How do Zoroastrians show their gratitude and respect during the celebration?
- What are some of the important lessons that Zoroastrians learn from the story of Fravardin Yast?
Symbols and Traditions
Fravardin Yast is a special celebration in Zoroastrianism that honors the Fravashis, which are like guardian angels who protect and guide people. During this celebration, Zoroastrians remember their ancestors and give thanks for their guidance and protection.
- What are the Fravashis in Zoroastrianism and how are they honored during Fravardin Yast?
- Describe the symbolism of the Faravahar in Zoroastrianism and its significance during Fravardin Yast.
- Why do Zoroastrians light a sacred fire during Fravardin Yast, and what does fire symbolize in their religion?
- Explain the tradition of setting up a Haft Seen table during Fravardin Yast and the significance of the items placed on it.
- How does Fravardin Yast provide an opportunity for Zoroastrians to reflect on their beliefs and values?
My Family and Fravardin Yast
Hi, I'm Molly, and I'm 8 years old! Today, I want to share with you all about how my family celebrates Fravardin Yast, a special celebration in Zoroastrianism. Fravardin Yast is a time when we honor the Fravashis, which are like guardian angels who protect and guide us.
During Fravardin Yast, we remember our ancestors and give thanks for their guidance and protection. One important symbol of this celebration is the Faravahar, which represents good thoughts, good words, and good deeds. It shows a human figure with wings, holding a ring and a staff.
We also light a sacred fire during Fravardin Yast because fire is a symbol of purity and truth in our religion. We pray and make offerings to the fire to show our respect and devotion. Another tradition is setting up a special table called a Haft Seen, decorated with items symbolizing renewal and rebirth, like sprouts, garlic, and apples.
- What is the significance of the Faravahar symbol during Fravardin Yast?
- Why do Zoroastrians light a sacred fire during this celebration?
- What items are typically included on a Haft Seen table?
- How do Zoroastrians show gratitude during Fravardin Yast?
- Why is reflecting on ancestors important during this celebration?
Comparing Fravardin Yast to another Festival
After learning all about Fravardin Yast, is there another festival that you celebrate or that you know that is similar in any way? Make a project comparing the similarities and differences between this festival and Fravardin Yastand think about what symbols and traditions that are part of it. Think about the story of the festival, if it has one, where it is mainly celebrated - whether it is one country or all over the world. You can produce the project using any medium whether it's paper or on a laptop.