Haft Sin

Haft Sîn or the seven 'S's is a major tradition of Norouz. The haft sin table includes seven items specific starting with the letter S or Sîn (س) in Persian alphabet). The items symbolically correspond to seven creations and holy immortals protecting them. The Haft Sin has evolved over time, but has kept its symbolism. Traditionally, families attempt to set as beautiful a Haft Sîn table as they can, as it is not only of traditional and spiritual value, but also noticed by visitors during Norouzi visitations and is a reflection of their good taste.
The Haft Sin items are:
sabzeh -Wheat or Lentil sprouts growing in a dish - symbolizing rebirth
samanu - a sweet pudding made from Wheat germ - symbolizing affluence
senjed - the dried fruit of the oleaster tree - symbolizing love
sîr -Garlic - symbolizing medicine
sîb - Apples - symbolizing beauty and health
somaq - Sumac berries - symbolizing (the color of) sunrise
serkeh -Vinegar - symbolizing age and patience
While traditionally incorrect, sometimes a missing Sin is exchanged with another item starting with an S. For example:
sonbol - the fragrant Hyacinth flower (the coming of spring)
sekkeh -Coins (prosperity and wealth)
Other items on the table may include:
traditional Iranian pastries such as baghlava, toot, naan-nokhodchi
dried nuts, berries and raisins (Aajeel)
lit Candles (enlightenment and happiness)
a Mirror
Decorated eggs, sometimes one for each member of the family (fertility)
a bowl with Goldfish (life, and the sign of Pisces which the sun is leaving)
a holy book (e.g., the Quran) and/or a poetry book (almost always either the Shahnama or the Divan of Hafez)