Gifting money for Eid al-Ghadir in Iran

Giving money as a gift for the auspicious occasion of Eid al-Ghadir is a beautiful tradition in Iran.

Money presented to both children and adults on Eid al-Qadir–the day when Prophet Mohammad (PBUH) appointed Ali ibn Abi Talib (AS), the first Shia Imam, as his successor and the leader of Muslims–is a tradition with Iranian-Islamic roots.

What is so special about this tradition is that Iranian Muslims having the honorific title Seyyed mostly give new banknotes to their friends, colleagues and families as well as the needy.

The honorific Seyyed denotes people accepted as descendants of Prophet Mohammad (PBUH).

Cash gifts have important cultural meanings in celebrating different Islamic and Persian holidays as well as marriage celebrations in Iran.

For instance, gifting money to family, children and grandchildren is an Iranian style of getting them off to a secure start in their lives.

Today marks the auspicious occasion of Eid al-Ghadir, a public holiday in Iran. People cherish and celebrate the event by attending various festivities on this day.