Introduction:
The Passover is a pivotal event in the history of Israel and a foundational element of the Jewish faith, commemorating God's deliverance of the Israelites from slavery in Egypt. It is also significant in Christian theology as a foreshadowing of the sacrificial death of Jesus Christ, the Lamb of God.

Biblical Account:
The Passover is first instituted in the book of Exodus. God commands Moses and Aaron to instruct the Israelites to take a lamb without blemish, slaughter it, and apply its blood to the doorposts and lintels of their homes. This act would protect them from the final plague—the death of the firstborn in Egypt. 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."

Observance:
The Passover is observed on the 14th day of the first month, Nisan, in the Hebrew calendar. It marks the beginning of the Feast of Unleavened Bread, a seven-day festival during which no leavened bread is to be eaten. Exodus 12:17 instructs, "So you are to observe the Feast of Unleavened Bread, for on this very day I brought your divisions out of the land of Egypt. Therefore, you are to observe this day as a permanent statute for the generations to come."

Symbolism and Significance:
The Passover lamb is a central symbol, representing innocence and sacrifice. The blood of the lamb signifies protection and deliverance, prefiguring the ultimate sacrifice of Jesus Christ. In 1 Corinthians 5:7 , Paul writes, "For Christ, our Passover lamb, has been sacrificed." This connection underscores the belief that Jesus' death fulfills the Passover's redemptive promise.

New Testament Context:
The Last Supper, which Jesus shared with His disciples, is understood to be a Passover meal. During this meal, Jesus instituted the Lord's Supper, or Communion, as recorded in the Synoptic Gospels. In Luke 22:19-20 , Jesus says, "And He took the bread, gave thanks, broke it, and gave it to them, saying, 'This is My body, given for you; do this in remembrance of Me.' In the same way, after supper He took the cup, saying, 'This cup is the new covenant in My blood, which is poured out for you.'"

Historical and Cultural Context:
The Passover is not only a religious observance but also a cultural and historical commemoration of Jewish identity and liberation. It serves as a reminder of God's faithfulness and the covenant relationship between God and His people. The Seder meal, which includes the retelling of the Exodus account, is a central element of the Passover celebration, incorporating symbolic foods and rituals that reinforce the themes of redemption and freedom.

Theological Implications:
For Christians, the Passover is a profound illustration of God's plan for salvation through Jesus Christ. The themes of sacrifice, redemption, and deliverance resonate deeply within Christian theology, emphasizing the continuity between the Old and New Testaments. The Passover's fulfillment in Christ highlights the transition from the old covenant, based on the Law, to the new covenant, established through grace and faith in Jesus.

Conclusion:
The Passover remains a vital observance within Judaism and a significant theological concept within Christianity. Its rich symbolism and historical roots continue to inspire and instruct believers in their faith journey, reminding them of God's enduring promise of deliverance and salvation.