Rumi’s Masnavi Explained: Understanding the “Persian Quran” Through Its Stories
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Jalāl al‑Dīn Rūmī’s Masnavi‑ye Ma‘navi (Spiritual Couplets) stands as one of the pinnacles of Persian literature—and one of the richest guides to Sufi thought ever composed. Often dubbed the “Persian Quran,” the Masnavi unfolds in six books and over 25,000 couplets, weaving together fables, parables, and anecdotes to illuminate the …
Fate vs. Free Will: Exploring Destiny in the Epic of Kings (Shahnameh of Ferdowsi)
Ferdowsi’s Shahnameh—the monumental “Book of Kings”—is often celebrated for its sweeping battles, heroic deeds, and the rise and fall of dynasties. Yet at its core lies an even deeper tension: the dance between fate (gharar) and free will (ikhtiyar). Do Ferdowsi’s heroes merely play out a script written …
The Women of the Shahnameh: Power, Love, and Tragedy
Ferdowsi’s Shahnameh pulsates with grand battles and heroic exploits, yet its heart often lies in the women whose choices shape the epic’s greatest triumphs—and its deepest sorrows. From queens wielding political influence to mothers whose love transcends fate, and from courageous warrior-maidens to scheming consorts, the female characters of the …
Kingship and Heroism in Ferdowsi’s Shahnameh: More Than Just Battles
From its opening verses to the fall of the last Sasanian king, Ferdowsi’s Shahnameh (Book of Kings) weaves an epic tapestry of Persia’s mythical and historical past. Though famed for its vivid battle scenes and larger‑than‑life heroes, the Shahnameh offers readers far more: a profound meditation on what it means …
Saadi Day, April 21 (1 Ordibehesht in the Iranian calendar)
Saadi Day, observed each year on April 21 (1 Ordibehesht in the Iranian calendar), celebrates the life and works of the great Persian poet Saadi Shirazi, whose ethical wisdom and literary craftsmanship continue to inspire readers worldwide. On this day, Iranians and visitors gather at his tomb in Shiraz and …
Glimpses of Modern Iran: Culture, Arts, and Daily Life Now
Iran, a land of rich history, ancient civilizations, and cultural brilliance, often evokes images of traditional landscapes, timeless poetry, and political complexities. However, modern Iran is a dynamic country where centuries-old traditions blend with contemporary innovations. From its vibrant arts scene to the evolving aspects of daily life, Iran today …
From Traditional Melodies to Modern Beats: Persian Music Today
Persian music is a world of deep emotion, poetic beauty, and rich history, spanning centuries of tradition, evolution, and adaptation. From the soaring vocals of classical music to the modern beats that now dominate Iran’s music scene, Persian music has evolved while still holding onto its ancient roots. In this …
The Iranian Diaspora: Keeping Culture Alive Around the World
The Iranian diaspora is a vibrant and diverse community spread across the globe, from North America and Europe to the Middle East, Australia, and beyond. As individuals and families left Iran for various reasons—whether political exile, economic opportunity, or personal choice—they carried with them not just their belongings, but also …