Sade: The Day Fire Was Discovered

A Celebration of Fire, Wisdom, and Innovation

With Sade just around the corner, I think it’s the perfect time to hear the epic story behind it—starting with a snake, a rock, and a spark that changed history. One day....

In my video, I share the story of Sade in my unique way—complete with a playful twist involving a snake, Hooshang, and a touch of humor. (Spoiler alert: the snake might be packing her bags for Shiraz.). While some parts are just for fun, the essence of the story remains true to its cultural roots.

What is Sade?

Sade falls on the 10th of Bahman in the Persian calendar, which corresponds to January 29th this year.

It marks 50 days before Nowruz, the Persian New Year.

This ancient celebration holds immense cultural and symbolic significance in Iran. Fire—the main symbol of Sade—represents wisdom, knowledge, and enlightenment. Sade commemorates the day humans are believed to have discovered fire, thanks to the intelligence and curiosity of Hushang, a legendary king in Persian mythology.

 

The Story of Hushang and the Discovery of Fire

According to Ferdowsi’s Shahnameh, Hushang (or Hushang) was a wise and just king. One day, while wandering through the mountains, he encountered a black snake with fiery red eyes. Startled, Hushang picked up a rock and hurled it at the snake.

Fortunately for the snake and history, Hooshang missed his target. The rock hit another rock instead—and kaboom! Sparks flew, igniting a crackling flame. Hooshang and the snake were stunned. While the snake fled to find a new home (probably somewhere in Shiraz to chill until Nowruz), Hooshang was captivated by the mysterious fire.

Rather than dismissing the event as mere coincidence, Hooshang—true to his name, which is associated with intelligence (hoosh meaning "wisdom")—decided to investigate further. He experimented with rocks and leaves until he successfully kindled a steady flame. That day marked the discovery of fire, a transformative moment for humanity.

But the story doesn’t end there. Hushang’s discovery laid the foundation for advancements like metal smelting. In this tale, the snake symbolizes ignorance and darknes.

 

Why is it Called "Sade"?

There are a couple of theories about the name "Sade":

One: Fifty Days and Nights: From the 10th of Bahman until Nowruz, there are exactly 50 days and 50 nights. Some believe this is why the celebration was named "Sade," which means "hundred" in Persian.

Comparison Table: Persian Calendar vs. Gregorian Calendar

Two: Seasonal Division: Ancient Iranians divided the year into two major seasons—winter and summer. From the first day of Aban (the 8th month) to Nowruz was considered the "Big Winter." This period spanned approximately 100 days, hence the name "Sade."

Sade Celebrations

Sade is officially recognized by UNESCO as part of Iran and Tajikistan's cultural heritage. In communities where it is still celebrated, people gather to light large bonfires, symbolizing the triumph of light over darkness.

 

What Are the Symbols of Sade?

1. Fire: Fire is the most essential symbol—especially the fire that burns in our hearts, representing a passion for learning and creating. It's the light of wisdom that burns away ignorance. Whether it's a simple candle, a towering bonfire, or even just a painting of flames, fire is key. Just be careful! The core symbol is brightness and enlightenment, born from the clash of two seemingly worthless stones, which through human knowledge can transform into advanced technology.

   Let’s not fear the light of truth but purify ourselves with it so we can create, invent, and explore new experiences.

2. Bells and Chimes: The sound of bells is significant for bringing joy and festivity.

3. Demon Masks: Masks of demons are used for dancing around the fire.

4. The Symbol of the Kaviani Banner: This represents the victory of Fereydun over Zahhak. You can paint or draw the Kaviani Banner on your body as part of the celebration.

5. The Color Green

6. Dancing and Joy with Friends

If you know more, share your thoughts! Let's revive this ancient celebration and align with the heartbeat of nature.

I personally plan to paint the Kaviani Banner tomorrow and light a candle since I couldn’t find any celebrations here in Tbilisi. Living in an apartment limits my options, but I’ll make do. I hope that with the purity of fire, next year we’ll have a grand celebration in Iran, and I'll return to this blog to express my gratitude to God.

Hushang in Persian Mythology

Hushang is celebrated not only as a king but also as a symbol of intelligence and progress. Ferdowsi beautifully narrates his reign:

جهاندار هوشنگ با رای و داد همه روی گیتی پر از داد کرد

Translation: Hushang, with wisdom and justice, made the world a place filled with fairness and righteousness.

Transcription: jahāndār hushang bā rāy o dād, hame ruye giti por az dād kard

Read more in Persian at Ganjoor. 

His discovery of how to extract iron from rocks is another testament to his ingenuity and contribution to technological advancement.

Cultural Significance

The practice of Sade unites people from diverse cultural, ethnic, and religious backgrounds, providing a platform for peaceful interactions centered around agricultural and food traditions. It promotes diversity and the continuation of oral storytelling and cultural memory.

This celebration reflects the foundational values of ancient Iran—freedom and inclusivity. Cyrus the Great himself envisioned a nation where men and women, regardless of race or religion, were free to live with dignity and autonomy. Loving Iran is about cherishing this legacy of freedom and love.

Final Thoughts

Sade reminds us that wisdom, innovation, and enlightenment can emerge even from unexpected encounters—like a snake and a rock in Hushang’s case. It’s a celebration of light, intelligence, and the courage to explore new possibilities.

I would like to thank Behzad Bolour for the campaign he created to celebrate this day. On his page dedicated to this campaign, Sadeh is explained in Persian, and I translated it into English:

Sadeh🔥

The celebration of Zahhak's defeat by Fereydoun,
the taming of demons,
and learning how to read and write.

 

Light your fire—whether it’s a bonfire or a humble candle—and let it symbolize your journey toward wisdom and growth.

آتش به‌پا کنید

نور بر تاریکی پیروز است.
Sadeh Pirouz!

 

With Love and gratitude,

ShirinSchool 🌳