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 observance is rooted in the biblical narrative found in the Book of Exodus and holds profound theological and historical significance for both Judaism and Christianity.

Biblical Foundation

The institution of Passover is detailed in Exodus 12. God commands Moses and Aaron to instruct the Israelites on the observance of this feast. The Lord declares, "This month is to be the beginning of months for you; it is the first month of your year" (Exodus 12:2). The Israelites are to select a lamb without blemish on the tenth day of the month and keep it until the fourteenth day, when it is to be slaughtered at twilight (Exodus 12:3-6).

The blood of the lamb is to be applied to the doorposts and lintels of the houses where they eat the lamb. The Lord explains, "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" (Exodus 12:13). This act of faith and obedience marks the Israelites' protection from the final plague, the death of the firstborn.

Ritual Observance

The Passover meal, or Seder, is rich with symbolism. The lamb represents the sacrifice, while unleavened bread (matzah) signifies the haste with which the Israelites left Egypt, having no time to let their bread rise. Bitter herbs (maror) are eaten to recall the bitterness of slavery. The Lord commands, "You are to eat it in haste; it is the LORD’s Passover" (Exodus 12:11).

The Feast of Unleavened Bread follows Passover, lasting seven days, during which no leaven is to be found in the homes of the Israelites. This is a perpetual ordinance, as stated: "You are to observe the Feast of Unleavened Bread, because it was on this very day that I brought your divisions out of the land of Egypt" (Exodus 12:17).

Passover in the New Testament

For Christians, Passover holds additional significance as it foreshadows the sacrificial death of Jesus Christ, the Lamb of God. The Apostle Paul writes, "For Christ, our Passover lamb, has been sacrificed" (1 Corinthians 5:7). The Last Supper, which Jesus shared with His disciples, was a Passover meal, during which He instituted the Lord's Supper, saying, "This is My body, given for you; do this in remembrance of Me" (Luke 22:19).

Historical and Theological Significance

Passover is a profound reminder of God's deliverance and faithfulness. It underscores themes of redemption, sacrifice, and covenant. The observance of Passover is a testament to God's power and mercy, as well as a call to remember His mighty acts throughout history.

Contemporary Observance

Today, Passover is celebrated by Jewish communities worldwide, maintaining the traditions and rituals that have been passed down through generations. For many Christians, the themes of Passover are reflected in the celebration of Easter, which commemorates the resurrection of Jesus Christ, seen as the fulfillment of the Passover promise of deliverance and new life.