Sat Mar 22 08:20:00 UTC 2025: ## Prepare for Nowruz: Ancient Beliefs Suggest Avoiding “Qamar dar Aqrab”
**Tehran, Iran** – The Iranian New Year, Nowruz, falls on March 21st, 2024, at 12:31 PM local time, coinciding with the astrological event known as “Qamar dar Aqrab” (the moon in Scorpio). According to ancient beliefs, and some astrologers, this is considered an inauspicious time to begin important activities.
While lacking scientific basis, many Iranians adhere to traditions aimed at mitigating any perceived negative effects. To avoid the supposed ill-fortune, several preventative measures are suggested:
* **Early Haft-Seen Setup:** Setting up the Haft-Seen table (a traditional New Year’s table arrangement) before 11:38 AM on March 18th, before the moon enters Scorpio, is recommended. Those who miss this deadline have until March 20th.
* **Charity and Prayer:** Giving a small charity (money or food) and placing it near the Haft-Seen table is advised, to be given to the needy after Nowruz. Reciting the prayer “Bِsِmِ allāhi r-raḥmāni r-raḥīm, allāhummaṣrif ʿanni balāʾa-d-dunyā wa ʿaẓāba-l-āxira,” three times before the new year, is also suggested to ward off misfortune.
* **Blessings for the New Year:** At the moment of Nowruz, alongside the traditional New Year’s prayer, it’s recommended to pray for blessings and protection from harm using the prayer “Allāhumma-jʿal hāḏihi-s-sanata sanatabaraka wa xayr wa ʾamān lanā wa liʾahlinā wa ʾawlādina.”
The article emphasizes that the astrological significance of “Qamar dar Aqrab” lacks scientific evidence and is based solely on traditional beliefs. However, for those who observe these practices, the suggested actions are intended to ensure a peaceful and prosperous New Year.
First Piper 