Hohm Press

350 pages

6 x 9

ISBN: 978-1-963433-08-1

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RELEASE DATE OCTOBER 15, 2025

Dance and music will take us on the path of the ancients, a journey of discovery through space and time...

Originating from one of the world's oldest civilizations, our ancestors gazed at the cosmos, observed the changing seasons, and marveled at the powerful forces of nature. In response, they crafted dances that embodied devotion, passion, love, strength, and courage. The profound wisdom and refined culture of ancient Iranians have left an indelible mark on the intricate music and dance traditions that continue to inspire cultures worldwide.

Companions of the Sun is a meticulously researched book that explores the evolutionary origins and practices of Iranian/Persian ancient rituals and mysticism. It delves into how these sacred traditions have influenced global music, dance, and spiritual practices, evolving into expressive movements that embody mystical poetry, art, and local legends. This book reveals the profound history and mystic traditions that guide seekers toward divine connection through sacred dance and the meditative art of whirling. Each step in these sacred practices becomes a mindful meditation—a prayerful expression of unity with the Divine.

This book illuminates the rich and diverse heritage of Iranian/Persian dance, music, and art shedding light on its sacred significance and its power to inspire and uplift. This art form, deeply rooted in an ancient culture, intertwines tradition, spirituality, and mysticism. Companions of the Sun serves as a unique resource for those passionate about history, culture, art, and mysticism, offering a deeper understanding of these timeless traditions.

There is a significant lack of accurate resources on Iranian/Persian mysticism, rituals, and sacred dance. Many existing books contain incomplete or inaccurate information. Through years of research and personal experience in the field, the author has dedicated her life to preserving and presenting these traditions with authenticity and depth. This book is the first comprehensive work on the history and practice of Iranian sacred dance, music, and rituals, providing valuable insight for students, mystics, healing practitioners, dancers, musicians, mystics and historians alike.

Featuring stunning artistic mandalas by Valerie Runningwolf, geometric diagrams of ancient concepts, and rare photographs from my archaeological excavations, this book offers a visually rich and intellectually profound journey into Iranian mysticism, sacred dance, and music.

Thank you for your support and belief in this work.

Endorsements

This is a fascinating and highly readable account of the integral role of dance in Iranian culture and civilization. As a participant observer, Berenji adds a remarkable dimension by merging academic accounts with personal reflections. This pathbreaking study is highly recommended.

‒ Farhad Kazemi, Professor Emeritus of Political Science, NYU.

The pathway to spirit starts deep within our bodies, within nature, and our past. This insightful and comprehensive work reveals how the transformative power of sacred dance may be discovered and practiced based on the legacy of Persian spirituality and heritage.

‒ Kevin Greek, PhD, President, Folk Dance Federation of California (2015-2017), ethnic dance researcher and advocate.

Over five years, Ms. Berenji immersed herself in the sacred rituals and sites across Iran, particularly in the Kermanshah province. Through her firsthand experience with Yarsan religious elders, musicians, and her study of sacred texts and participation in gatherings, she enriched our narrative creating an authentic portrayal of Yarasan culture. This book caters to scholars and general readers alike, presenting the diversity of Yarasan spirituality with passion and dedication. Essential for anyone intrigued by mystical practices, it offers a compelling journey into the heart of spiritual culture.

‒ Seyed Salman Hosseini, Yarsan mystic elder and renowned tanbur musician and producer.

As I delved into this magnificent work, I found myself utterly astounded by Farima's extraordinary talent and the sheer amount of dedication she poured into crafting this comprehensive yet profoundly informative book.

‒ Varol Ozkaner, Photographer, Digital Designer, and researcher of Mesopotamian ethnic culture.

About the author:

Farima Berenji is a distinguished scholar with an MA in Anthropology, Archaeology, and an additional MA in Iranian Ethnochoreology, both earned at Cal State Hayward. Her academic journey is marked by the achievement of an M.Msc. and a PhD in Metaphysics specializing in Iranian mysticism and rituals. She is also an integrated healing practitioner and an initiated master in the Iranian Sufi and mystic order. She brings a unique blend of academic rigor and spiritual depth to her work, performances, and teachings.

As an award-winning and internationally acclaimed performing artist and choreographer, Farima has been recognized as one of the foremost global scholars in ancient and mystical Iranian ethnochoreology. Notably, she is honored as the first Iranian woman to direct a Persian dance company, showcasing performances for notable figures such as President Obama, President Biden, the EU, the UN, and other international dignitaries.

Farima is the Founder and Artistic Director of the Simorgh Dance Collective as well as the Assistant Director and Program Coordinator of Eastern Arts. Additionally, she is the founder of Dance of the Soul™ and serves as an Advisory Council Member of Mosaic America, as a member of the International Dance Council (CID-UNESCO), and as a member of the National Folk Organization. Distinctively, Farima Berenji is recognized as the first Iranian-American woman TEDx lecturer and performer in the field of performance art and spirituality.

As an artist, scholar, and spiritual guide, Farima's contributions span the globe, encompassing research, lectures, performances, and education. Her mission is to inspire the cultivation of dynamic creativity and rejuvenation through the transformative power of dance, movement, and music. Explore her profound insights and connect with her online at farimadance.com to experience the richness of her work.