Dear Spain Jamat, Ya Ali Madad.
As Shiʿi Imami Ismaili Muslims, on March 21st we celebrate Nawruz (which means new day in Farsi), a date that marks the beginning of spring, as well as the new year in several countries.
In this issue, the ninth of the Newsletter of the Spain Jamat, you will find an article on the spiritual meaning of Nawruz in Ismaili thought and two Sufi stories that illustrate the importance of self-discovery, acceptance of self-identity and being mindful of one’s actions. Next, we explore what is spiritual fasting as this year Nawruz falls very close to the beginning of the holy month of Ramadan. Additionally, our Taʿlim students share with us their drawings about spring and Nawruz. And finally, we reflect on the nature of true happiness during this upcoming holy month of Ramadan and remember the message of the Imam of the Time on the ethics of our faith.
We look at the speech given by Prince Rahim Aga Khan at the World Government Summit in Dubai on 13th February 2023 and in the last section, we share some Nawruz celebrations by our Spain Jamat.
This year, Nawruz and Ramadan happening so close together, is a reminder that while we celebrate new beginnings and the changing of the seasons, it's also important to reflect on our spiritual journey and connect with our faith. This can be a time for people of all faiths to reflect on their own spiritual practices and renew their commitment to personal growth and their connection with the divine.
Let us celebrate the renewal of nature and the triumph of light over darkness, renew our lives physically and spiritually and be grateful for the blessings we receive to face the future with hope and optimism.
One chronicle relates that upon receiving Nawruz gifts from a Persian nobleman, Imam ʿAli b. Abi Talib wished him: “Har ruz-e tan Nawruz, Nawruz-e tan Pyruz”
Here, we also wish to each and every one of you:
هر روزتان نوروز نوروزتان پيروز
Har Ruz-e tan Nawruz, Nawruz-e tan Pyruz
May each day of yours be a new day, may your new day be prosperous.
Nawruz Mubarak!
نيروز مبارك
