The Passover, a pivotal event in the religious life of Israel, commemorates the deliverance of the Israelites from Egyptian bondage. The observance of Passover is detailed in several passages of the Old Testament, with specific instructions regarding the offerings and provisions necessary for its celebration.

Biblical Foundation

The institution of the Passover is found in Exodus 12, where God commands Moses and Aaron regarding the preparation and observance of the Passover meal. The Israelites were instructed to select a lamb without blemish, a male a year old, on the tenth day of the first month, and to keep it until the fourteenth day when it would be slaughtered at twilight (Exodus 12:3-6). The blood of the lamb was to be applied to the doorposts and lintels of their houses as a sign for the Lord to "pass over" and spare the firstborn of Israel during the final plague on Egypt (Exodus 12:7, 13).

Offerings and Sacrifices

The Passover offerings were not limited to the initial event in Egypt but were to be observed annually as a lasting ordinance (Exodus 12:14). In Numbers 28:16-25, the Lord provides further instructions for the offerings during the Passover and the Feast of Unleavened Bread. On the fourteenth day of the first month, the Passover to the Lord is to be observed, followed by a seven-day feast. On the first day, a sacred assembly is held, and no regular work is to be done. Offerings during this period include burnt offerings, grain offerings, and drink offerings, in addition to the regular daily offerings (Numbers 28:19-24).

Centralization of Worship

Deuteronomy 16 emphasizes the centralization of worship, instructing the Israelites to celebrate the Passover at the place the Lord chooses as a dwelling for His Name (Deuteronomy 16:2). This centralization underscores the unity of the nation under God's covenant and the importance of communal worship.

Historical Observance

The historical books of the Old Testament provide accounts of Passover observance, highlighting its significance in Israel's religious life. In 2 Chronicles 30, King Hezekiah reinstitutes the Passover after a period of neglect, inviting all Israel and Judah to celebrate it in Jerusalem. Similarly, King Josiah's Passover, described in 2 Chronicles 35, is noted for its adherence to the law and the extensive provision of offerings, including lambs and goats from the king's own possessions (2 Chronicles 35:7).

Prophetic and Messianic Significance

The Passover holds prophetic significance, foreshadowing the ultimate sacrifice of Jesus Christ, the Lamb of God, who takes away the sin of the world (John 1:29). The New Testament presents Jesus as the fulfillment of the Passover, with His crucifixion occurring during the Passover festival, symbolizing the deliverance from sin and death for all who believe.

Conclusion

The provision for the Passover offerings, as outlined in the Old Testament, reflects the meticulous care and reverence required in worshiping God. It serves as a reminder of God's deliverance and faithfulness, pointing forward to the redemptive work of Christ. The Passover remains a profound symbol of salvation and covenant relationship with God.