Tradition,

and Reflection

Shabe Yalda, celebrated on the winter solstice, is one of Afghanistan's most significant cultural events, marking the longest night of the year and the gradual return of light. Occurring around December 21st or 22nd, this night symbolizes the triumph of light over darkness as the sun begins its journey toward longer days. It’s a time for families to gather, share meals, tell stories, and celebrate warmth, togetherness, and the coming of light

One of the key traditions during Shabe Yalda is fortune-telling, where families open a book of Hafez's poetry to a random page The poem that appears is interpreted for guidance and predictions for the year ahead. This practice is deeply rooted in Persian and Afghan culture, offering wisdom, hope, and sometimes answers to personal questions.

Fruits play a central role in the celebration, each carrying profound symbolism:

Pomegranates are a symbol of vitality, fertility, and abundance. Their bright red seeds represent new beginnings, growth, and the continuation of life.

Watermelon, with its refreshing sweetness, signifies health and renewal. Its bright red color connects it to vitality, marking the return of warmth and the sun's power after the longest night.

Nuts, known as ajil, such as almonds, pistachios, and walnuts, symbolize prosperity, wisdom, and longevity. These foods remind people of the abundance that follows the darkest period of the year, much like the earth itself becomes fruitful again after the winter solstice.