The fourteenth day holds significant importance in the biblical narrative, particularly in the context of the Hebrew calendar and the observance of key religious events. This day is most notably associated with the Passover, a pivotal event in the history of Israel and a foreshadowing of the redemptive work of Jesus Christ.

Passover and the Exodus

The fourteenth day of the first month, Nisan, is the day designated for the observance of the Passover. In Exodus 12:6, the LORD commands the Israelites, "You must keep it until the fourteenth day of the month, when the whole assembly of the congregation of Israel will slaughter the animals at twilight." This day marks the beginning of the Passover festival, commemorating the deliverance of the Israelites from slavery in Egypt. The blood of the Passover lamb, applied to the doorposts, served as a sign for the LORD to "pass over" the houses of the Israelites, sparing them from the plague of the firstborn (Exodus 12:13).

The Feast of Unleavened Bread

Following the Passover, the Feast of Unleavened Bread begins on the fifteenth day of Nisan and lasts for seven days. However, the preparation for this feast starts on the fourteenth day. In Exodus 12:18, it is stated, "In the first month, from the evening of the fourteenth day until the evening of the twenty-first day, you are to eat unleavened bread." This feast symbolizes the haste with which the Israelites left Egypt, not having time to let their bread rise, and serves as a reminder of God's swift deliverance.

The Fourteenth Day in the New Testament

The significance of the fourteenth day extends into the New Testament, where it is linked to the crucifixion of Jesus Christ. The Synoptic Gospels and the Gospel of John provide accounts of the Last Supper, which is understood to be a Passover meal. Jesus, the Lamb of God, is crucified on the day of preparation for the Passover, aligning with the fourteenth day of Nisan. This connection is seen as a fulfillment of the Passover typology, with Christ's sacrifice providing deliverance from sin and death.

The Fourteenth Day in the Book of Esther

In the Book of Esther, the fourteenth day of the month of Adar is significant in the celebration of Purim. Esther 9:17 states, "This was on the thirteenth day of the month of Adar, and on the fourteenth day they rested and made it a day of feasting and joy." The Jews celebrated their victory over their enemies, and this day became a time of rejoicing and remembrance of God's providential protection.

Symbolism and Typology

The fourteenth day, particularly in the context of Passover, is rich with symbolism and typology. The Passover lamb, sacrificed on this day, prefigures Christ, the ultimate Passover Lamb, whose blood brings salvation. The deliverance from Egypt is a type of the greater deliverance from sin, achieved through Christ's atoning work on the cross. The observance of the fourteenth day as a time of preparation and remembrance underscores the themes of redemption, deliverance, and divine faithfulness throughout Scripture.