The Aghd is a wedding ceremony that takes place in a beautiful decorated room. Traditionally on the floor would be the elaborately white decorated spread called Sofreh-ye Aghd; it is set facing east, the direction of the sunrise. When the bride and groom are seated they are at the head of the Sofreh, facing The Light. By tradition passed from mother to daughter, the spread is made from luxurious beautiful white fabric, which symbolizes purity. Some would say the best part of the Aghd is the Sofreh spread and it's significant meaning. This spread contains many items and qualities that symbolize what the couple hopes to bring into their new life.
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Sofreh Items
Sofreh Cloth: This traditionally is a very classy white material that is handed down from the mother of bride. The Sofreh is spread out on the floor where all of the items are set up; symbolizing purity.
Mirror & Candles: To bring brightness into the future of the couple. They represent light and fire two very important elements in the culture.
Flowers: Used mostly for decoration and to brighten the couples future.
Eggs: Decorated eggs, almonds, walnuts and hazelnuts symbols fertility.
Fruit (pomegranates & apples): Pomegranates are considered heavenly fruits, and apples symbolize the creation of mankind.
Cookies/Sweets: To be shared with the guests after the ceremony.
Bread & Cheese: Symbolizes prosperity for the feasts and the couple's life thereafter.
Honey: To sweeten life. Immediately after the marriage ceremony the couple would dip one pinky finger into the cup of honey and feed it to the other.
Gold Coins: Representing wealth for the newly wed.
Sugar Canes: To shower the couple with sugar to symbolize sweetness and happiness in their lives. This is performed during the ceremony over the couples head.
Quran: Symbolizes Gods blessing for the couple.
Prayer Mat: Placed in the center of the Sofreh to remind the couple of the importance
of prayer both at blissful times and times of hardship. This usually includes a small rug Sajjaadeh and a strand of prayer beads Tasbi.
Rose Water: To perfume the air with a sweet sent.
Tray of Spices: To guard against the evil eye. This can consist of salt, poppy seeds, wild rice, and tea.
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