Hafez Day in Iran: Celebrating legacy of poetic legend

On Hafez Day, Iranians pay homage to one of the most beloved figures in the Persian literature.

Each year on October 11, Iranians celebrate the literary legacy of Khwajeh Shams al-Din Muhammad Hafez of Shiraz, known simply as Hafez. 

Today is Hafez Day in Iran, celebrating the enduring influence of the 14th-century poet whose words resonate across centuries and cultures.

Born in Shiraz, Hafez lived during the turbulent times of the Mongol invasion of Iran. Despite the upheavals of his era, Hafez crafted poetry of unparalleled beauty and depth.

His collection of poems, known as the Divan-e Hafez, is a cornerstone of Persian literature and a source of wisdom and inspiration for millions.

Hafez's ghazals (a form of lyric poetry) are renowned for their musicality, complexity, and layers of meaning.

They speak of love, joys and sorrows of human existence.

His ability to weave profound religious, philosophical and mystical ideas into accessible and beautiful verse has earned him a place not just in literature but in the daily lives of Persian speakers.

On his commemoration day, many flock to Hafez's tomb in Shiraz, a beautiful mausoleum known as Hafezieh where people recite his poems and seek inspiration.

A popular tradition involves opening the Divan-e Hafez at random and interpreting the poem on that page as divination or guidance for one's life.

On this occasion, universities and cultural institutions commonly hold symposiums and conferences to discuss Hafez's work and its relevance to contemporary times.

The poet's influence extends far beyond Iran's borders.

His poetry has been translated into numerous languages, inspiring writers and thinkers worldwide.

Goethe, the German literary giant, was deeply influenced by Hafez, as were many other Western poets and philosophers.