Introduction:
Passover, known as Pesach in Hebrew, is one of the most significant feasts in the Jewish calendar, commemorating the Israelites' deliverance from slavery in Egypt. This event is foundational to Jewish identity and has profound theological implications in the Christian faith, symbolizing redemption and foreshadowing the sacrificial death of Jesus Christ.

Biblical Origin:
The institution of Passover is detailed in the Book of Exodus. God commands Moses to instruct the Israelites to sacrifice a lamb without blemish and apply its blood to the doorposts and lintels of their homes. This act would protect them from the plague of the firstborn, which God would bring upon Egypt as the final judgment against Pharaoh. Exodus 12:13 states, "The blood on the houses where you are staying will distinguish them; when I see the blood, I will pass over you. No plague will fall on you to destroy you when I strike the land of Egypt."

Ritual Observance:
The Passover meal, or Seder, is rich with symbolism. The lamb represents the sacrifice, unleavened bread (matzah) signifies the haste of the Israelites' departure, and bitter herbs (maror) symbolize the bitterness of slavery. Exodus 12:14 commands, "This day is to be a memorial for you, and you are to celebrate it as a feast to the LORD. You are to celebrate it as a permanent statute for the generations to come."

Passover in the New Testament:
In the New Testament, Passover takes on additional significance. Jesus Christ is identified as the ultimate Passover Lamb. John the Baptist proclaims in John 1:29 , "Look, the Lamb of God, who takes away the sin of the world!" The Last Supper, which Jesus shares with His disciples, is a Passover meal. During this meal, Jesus institutes the Lord's Supper, signifying the new covenant in His blood (Luke 22:19-20).

Theological Significance:
For Christians, Passover is a typology of Christ's redemptive work. The Apostle Paul explicitly connects Christ to the Passover lamb in 1 Corinthians 5:7 : "Get rid of the old leaven, so that you may be a new unleavened batch, as you really are. For Christ, our Passover lamb, has been sacrificed." This connection underscores the belief that just as the blood of the lamb spared the Israelites from death, so too does the blood of Christ deliver believers from sin and eternal death.

Cultural and Historical Context:
Passover is not only a religious observance but also a cultural event that reinforces Jewish identity and community. It serves as a reminder of God's faithfulness and the importance of obedience and remembrance. The annual celebration involves retelling the Exodus account, ensuring that each generation understands and appreciates their heritage and God's deliverance.

Conclusion:
Passover remains a pivotal event in both Jewish and Christian traditions. Its observance and the theological themes it embodies continue to resonate, highlighting themes of liberation, sacrifice, and divine faithfulness.