Category: Religion

By Dr. Sarah Henderson, Department of Near Eastern Studies, University of Michigan and Dr. Mohammad Rahimi, Department of Anthropology, University of Tehran The study of death rituals across cultures reveals fascinating parallels that transcend geographical and historical boundaries. While Halloween…
As an Iranian historian with a passion for uncovering the lesser-known aspects of our nation’s diverse history, I’ve always been fascinated by the story of Afro-Iranians. It’s a tale that weaves through centuries, filled with struggle, resilience, and cultural fusion….
The Shah Abdol-Azim Shrine, known as Shah Abdol-Azim al-Hasani in Persian (حرم شاه عبدالعظیم حسنی), stands as one of the most venerated religious and historical sites in Iran, and particularly within the sacred landscape of Ray, just south of the…
In the annals of human history, few tales are as enduring and poignant as that of the Assyrian people. Their story, woven into the very fabric of Iran’s rich tapestry, is one of resilience, faith, and cultural tenacity. As we…
By: The Iranian Ministry of Cultural Heritage, Tourism, and Handicrafts As we celebrate World Tourism Day, there is no better moment to extend an open invitation to all travelers from across the globe to experience a land where history, culture,…
By Arman Soltani, Iranian Tour Leader and Travel Vlogger Iran, a land rich in history, culture, and natural beauty, has long been a destination that captures the imagination of travelers from around the world. Yet, despite its treasures, Iran remains…
As I sit to write these words, the autumn winds gently sway the last golden leaves on the branches of our ancient trees, and a nostalgic melody sweeps through my heart. The air is crisp with the scent of earth,…
In the vast expanse of Islamic philosophy, few figures stand as luminously as Shihab al-Din Yahya ibn Habash Suhrawardi. Known as “Shaikh al-Ishraq” (the Master of Illumination), Suhrawardi’s contributions to the intellectual and spiritual traditions of the Islamic world are…
Ta’zieh, a uniquely Iranian form of theater, intertwines the threads of religious devotion, historical narration, and dramatic performance into a rich cultural tapestry. Rooted in the Shia Islamic traditions, Ta’zieh transcends mere storytelling, transforming into a profound ritual that resonates…
Across cultures and continents, the reverence for the deceased forms a significant part of human tradition. These rituals, deeply embedded in the collective memory of societies, serve as a bridge between the living and the dead, allowing for a continued…