What Is Haft-Sin? The 7 Symbols, Meaning & How to Create a Nowruz Table

Haft-Sin is one of the most beautiful and meaningful traditions of Nowruz, the Persian New Year. Every year, families prepare a special table filled with symbolic items beginning with the Persian letter “س” (Sin). Each element represents a wish for the year ahead, from health and prosperity to love, patience and renewal.

Although every family may style their Haft-Sin differently, the tradition brings together centuries of Persian culture with the excitement of welcoming spring and a fresh beginning.

What Does Haft-Sin Mean?

“Haft” means seven in Persian, while “Sin” refers to the Persian letter س. Traditionally, the Haft-Sin table includes seven symbolic items whose Persian names begin with this letter. The table is usually prepared before Nowruz and remains an important part of the Persian New Year celebration.

What Are the Seven Haft-Sin Items?

Sabzeh (سبزه) – Sprouted wheat, lentils or other greens representing rebirth, growth and renewal.

Samanu (سمنو) – A sweet wheat pudding symbolising strength, abundance and prosperity.

Senjed (سنجد) – Dried oleaster fruit, traditionally associated with love and affection.

Seer (سیر) – Garlic, representing health and protection.

Seeb (سیب) – Apples, symbolising beauty and good health.

Somagh (سماق) – Sumac, whose deep red colour is associated with sunrise and the beginning of a new day.

Serkeh (سرکه) – Vinegar, representing patience, maturity and the wisdom that comes with time.

What Else Goes on a Haft-Sin Table?

Many families add other meaningful decorations alongside the seven traditional items. A mirror is commonly included to reflect light and symbolise clarity and reflection. Candles bring warmth and light to the table, while decorated eggs are often associated with fertility and new life.

Flowers, Persian poetry, decorative fish and other treasured family pieces can also be used to make each Haft-Sin personal. There is no single way a Haft-Sin table has to look. Some families prefer a traditional display, while others combine Persian symbolism with modern colours and contemporary home décor.

How to Create a Beautiful Haft-Sin Table

Start by choosing a central area in your home where the table can become part of your Nowruz celebration. Arrange the seven traditional Haft-Sin items first, then build the display around them with a mirror, candles and decorative pieces. Using bowls or plates in a coordinated style can help bring the whole setting together.

For a more contemporary look, natural materials such as wood and concrete can be combined with traditional Persian elements. At Pupa Gallery, our Nowruz collection includes handmade Haft-Sin sets, Persian-inspired mirrors, candles and decorative pieces designed to complement both traditional and modern Persian New Year tables.

Celebrating Nowruz Away From Iran

For Persian families living in the UK and around the world, preparing a Haft-Sin can be an especially meaningful way to stay connected to Iranian culture and share Nowruz traditions with younger generations, friends and the wider community.

Whether your Haft-Sin is large and elaborate or a small table in the corner of your home, it is the meaning behind each piece that makes the tradition special.

Find Haft-Sin Sets & Nowruz Decorations in the UK

Pupa Gallery is based in Leeds, UK and offers Persian-inspired products for Nowruz, including handmade Haft-Sin sets, mirrors, candles and decorative pieces. Explore the collection and create a Haft-Sin table that brings together Persian tradition and your own personal style.