Origins and Meaning
- Passover (Pesach in Hebrew) is a major Jewish holiday that commemorates the Exodus of the Israelites from slavery in Biblical Egypt.
- According to the Book of Exodus, God commanded Moses to instruct the Israelites to mark their doorposts with lamb’s blood. This act ensured that the Angel of Death would pass over their homes during the tenth plague, sparing their firstborn children.
The Passover Seder
- The heart of Passover is the Seder, a special home service.
- During the Seder, families read from the Haggadah, a ritual account of the Exodus story.
- The Seder includes a festive meal, the prohibition on eating chametz (leavened bread), and the consumption of matzah (unleavened bread).
The Exodus Story
- The Passover sacrifice recalls the time when God “passed over the houses of the Israelites in Egypt.”
- The Israelites were subsequently freed from slavery, and Pharaoh allowed them to leave, asking Moses to bless him in God’s name.
Dates and Observance
- Passover begins on the 15th day of Nisan, considered the first month of the Hebrew year.
- The holiday lasts for eight days (seven days in Israel).
- During this time, no leavened bread or grain products are consumed or owned.
Beyond the Ritual
- Passover is not only about historical events; it’s a celebration of freedom, family, and faith.
- It marks the beginning of the Counting of the Omer, a 49-day period leading up to Shavuot (the Festival of Weeks).
Community and Charity
- Passover emphasizes community and giving back.
- Tzedakah (charitable acts) play a significant role during this time.
In summary, Passover is a time to reflect on liberation, remember our ancestors’ journey, and celebrate the enduring spirit of the Jewish people. As families gather around the Seder table, they honor tradition and look toward a future of hope and renewal.