Declaration – 4 Dhu al-Hijjah 1390 (1971-02-01)

Instruction from Hazrat Agha Haj Sultan Hussein Tabandeh, Reza Ali Shah,
to Haj Sayyid Hibbatollah Jazbi “Sabit Ali”
Concerning the Non-Observance of Nowruz in Years When It Falls During Muharram and Safar

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I extend my greetings to all the brothers, and offer congratulations on the two blessed Eids — Eid al-Adha and Eid al-Ghadir — and pray for everyone’s success from God. As was conveyed two years ago as well, in these recent years, the first day of Farvardin (Nowruz) coincides with the months of Muharram or Safar — the two months of mourning for the Shi‘a and the great figures of religion — and therefore, we do not observe Nowruz.
Friends and brothers should refrain completely from sending any greetings for that day, neither in writing nor by telegram. If anyone, due to negligence, does send such greetings, they will not be responded to. This directive remains in effect until Nowruz once again falls in the month of Rabi‘ al-Awwal.
However, Eid al-Ghadir — which is the greatest of our religious festivals — is the true Nowruz, and even greater, and we do celebrate that. Of course, the gathering of believers in remembrance of God is highly commendable at all times, whether in ordinary days, festive days, or times of mourning. Thus, the non-observance of Nowruz on the first of Farvardin does not conflict in any way with the brothers gathering on that day to recite laudatory poetry in praise of the religious elders and to study mystical and ethical texts.
Please convey this message to the brothers in Tehran and, as much as possible, to the other brothers as well.