Best Hafez Poems for Yalda Night (Shab-e Yalda) With Meaning
Yalda Night, the longest night of the year, is more than a seasonal milestone. It is a celebration of light overcoming darkness, of hope returning after endurance, and of warmth shared through togetherness. For centuries, this ancient Persian tradition has been accompanied by poetry—especially the timeless verses of Hafez.
At Danaa School, we believe cultural heritage is best preserved through literature and shared learning. And there is no better companion for Yalda Night than the poetry of Hafez. Below, we explore some of the best Hafez poems for Yalda, each reflecting themes of patience, renewal, and the promise of dawn.
Best Hafez Poems for Yalda Night (Quick List)
- یوسف گمگشته بازآید به کنعان غم مخور – Hope and return after hardship
- دوش وقت سحر از غصه نجاتم دادند – Relief arrives at dawn after a long night
- حالیا مصلحت وقت در آن میبینم – Joy in the present moment and togetherness
- ساقیا آمدن عید مبارک بادت – New beginnings and the arrival of light
- هر گنج سعادت که خدا داد به حافظ – Patience through darkness brings reward
The Significance of Yalda Night
Yalda Night, also known as Shab-e Yalda, is celebrated on the eve of the winter solstice. The word “Yalda” means birth, symbolizing the rebirth of the sun and the gradual return of longer days. Families gather to share fruits, stories, and poetry—most notably from the Divan of Hafez. The night centers on reflection, connection, and hope.
Hafez: The Eternal Voice of Persian Poetry
Khwāja Shams-ud-Dīn Muḥammad Ḥāfeẓ-e Shīrāzī, known simply as Hafez, is one of the most revered poets in Persian literature. His ghazals weave mysticism, love, patience, and insight into human nature. These qualities make his poetry especially fitting for Yalda Night, a moment that honors endurance and faith in the coming light.
Best Hafez Poems for Yalda Night
Yalda is traditionally a night for poetry, reflection, and Fal-e Hafez—opening Hafez’s Divan to seek symbolic guidance. Below are five poems that resonate deeply with Yalda’s themes of hope, patience, and renewal.
1. یوسف گمگشته بازآید به کنعان غم مخور
Yousef-e Gomgashteh Baz Ayad Be Kan’an, Gham Makhor
The lost Joseph will return to Canaan, do not grieve;
This house of sorrow will become a garden, do not grieve.
Why it fits Yalda: This poem embodies hope after hardship—just as Yalda marks the turning point from darkness toward light.
2. دوش وقت سحر از غصه نجاتم دادند
Doush Vaghte Sahar Az Ghoseh Nejatam Dadand
Last night, at dawn, I was rescued from sorrow;
They gave me the wine of eternal life to drink.
Why it fits Yalda: The arrival of dawn after suffering mirrors the meaning of Yalda—the promise that night does not last forever.
3. حالیا مصلحت وقت در آن میبینم
Halia Maslehat-e Vaqt Dar Aan Mibinam
For now, I see wisdom in honoring the present moment;
Let us pour the wine and share the night in joy.
Why it fits Yalda: Yalda is about presence, companionship, and cherishing the moment—exactly what this poem celebrates.
4. ساقیا آمدن عید مبارک بادت
Saqia Amadan-e Eid Mobarak Badat
O cupbearer, may the coming dawn bring blessings;
Bring the wine, for darkness has been defeated.
Why it fits Yalda: This poem celebrates renewal and the arrival of light, aligning perfectly with Yalda’s symbolism.
5. هر گنج سعادت که خدا داد به حافظ
Har Ganj-e Sa’adat Ke Khoda Dad Be Hafez
Every treasure of joy that God granted to Hafez
Came from patience during times of darkness.
Why it fits Yalda: Patience through hardship is a central Yalda theme—and a recurring truth in Hafez’s poetry.
How to Use These Poems on Yalda Night
- Fal-e Hafez: Open the Divan randomly and reflect on the poem’s message. Learn more in our guide: What Is Fal-e Hafez and Its Meaning?
- Recitation: Read poems aloud to enrich the atmosphere and connect generations.
- Discussion: Share interpretations and reflect on how the verses relate to life, patience, and hope.
The night may seem endless, but dawn is always near—and with it, the promise of light.
Happy Yalda!
Frequently Asked Questions About Yalda Night and Hafez
Why do people read Hafez on Yalda Night?
Because Yalda is a night of reflection and hope, and Hafez’s poetry is traditionally used for Fal-e Hafez to seek meaning and guidance.
What is Fal-e Hafez?
Fal-e Hafez is a tradition in which a poem is chosen at random from Hafez’s Divan and interpreted symbolically.
What does Yalda symbolize?
Yalda represents the victory of light over darkness and the gradual return of longer days after the winter solstice.
Is Yalda only celebrated in Iran?
While rooted in Iranian culture, Yalda is celebrated by Persian-speaking communities around the world.
Which Hafez poem is best for hope on Yalda?
“یوسف گمگشته بازآید به کنعان غم مخور” is often chosen for its strong message of hope and return after hardship.
Join Danaa School’s Divan-e-Hafez Course
Discover the beauty of Persian poetry with Danaa School’s Divan-e-Hafez course. This class is ideal for poetry lovers and learners who want to improve their Farsi while exploring the deeper meanings of Hafez’s work.
Whether you are reconnecting with Persian culture or discovering it for the first time, this course offers a meaningful journey into the heart of Persian literature.
Find Your Perfect Teacher
At Danaa School, you can find your Persian Poetry Tutor from all qualified and experienced teachers.
Now experience the excellent language and poetry journey.
Why Is Hafez’s Poetry Popular During Yalda Night?
Hafez’s poetry, known for its themes of hope, love, and renewal, aligns perfectly with the spirit of Yalda, making it a popular choice for recitations during the celebration.
What Is "Faal-e Hafez" and How Is It Related to Yalda?
“Faal-e Hafez” is a tradition where a random verse from Hafez’s Divan is selected to offer guidance or insight. It’s commonly practiced on Yalda Night as a way to reflect on the future.
Which Hafez Poems Are Best for Yalda Night?
Poems that celebrate resilience, hope, and unity, such as those reflecting on the promise of dawn after a long night, are particularly resonant for Yalda Night celebrations.
How Can We Incorporate Hafez’s Poetry Into Yalda Celebrations?
You can incorporate Hafez’s poetry by reading and reflecting on his verses, practicing “faal-e Hafez,” decorating with his quotes, and sharing his poems on social media.
Why Does Danaa School Use Hafez’s Poetry for Yalda?
Danaa School uses Hafez’s poetry to connect students with cultural traditions and literature, enhancing their appreciation for Persian heritage and enriching their educational experience.
Conclusion
Experience the magic of Yalda Night and the poetry of Hafez with Danaa School! Join us for our special Yalda Night event, where we’ll read, reflect, and celebrate together. For more information on how to participate, visit our website or contact us directly. Let’s make this Yalda a memorable night of culture, poetry, and community.
Want to Learn Persian Poetry at Danaa School?
Here are the best resources for you!
One Response
Thank you for this information. Is this from a Hafiz poem? If so, which one? Can you please direct me to the entire poem?
“The night might seem endless, but dawn is surely near, and with it, the promise of light.”