Definition and Significance:
Unleavened dough refers to dough that is made without yeast or any leavening agent. In the biblical context, unleavened dough holds significant religious and symbolic meaning, particularly in relation to the observance of Passover and the Feast of Unleavened Bread. The absence of leaven symbolizes purity, sincerity, and the haste with which the Israelites left Egypt.

Biblical References:
The concept of unleavened dough is primarily associated with the Exodus narrative. In Exodus 12:39 , it is recorded, "And they baked unleavened cakes of the dough which they had brought out of Egypt, for it was not leavened, because they were driven out of Egypt and could not delay; nor had they prepared any provisions for themselves." This passage highlights the urgency of the Israelites' departure from Egypt, leaving no time for the dough to rise.

Passover and the Feast of Unleavened Bread:
The use of unleavened dough is central to the observance of Passover and the subsequent Feast of Unleavened Bread. In Exodus 12:15 , God commands, "For seven days you must eat unleavened bread. On the first day, you are to remove the leaven from your houses. Whoever eats anything leavened from the first day through the seventh must be cut off from Israel." This command underscores the importance of unleavened bread as a memorial of the Israelites' deliverance from bondage.

Symbolism:
Unleavened dough symbolizes purity and separation from sin. In the New Testament, the Apostle Paul draws on this symbolism in 1 Corinthians 5:7-8 , where he writes, "Get rid of the old leaven, that you may be a new unleavened batch, as you really are. For Christ, our Passover lamb, has been sacrificed. Therefore let us keep the feast, not with the old leaven, the leaven of malice and wickedness, but with the unleavened bread of sincerity and truth." Here, unleavened dough represents the Christian's call to live a life free from sin, in sincerity and truth.

Cultural and Historical Context:
In ancient Near Eastern cultures, leaven was often seen as a symbol of corruption and decay. The Israelites' use of unleavened dough during Passover served as a counter-cultural statement, emphasizing their distinct identity and covenant relationship with God. The practice of removing leaven from their homes was a physical act that reinforced spiritual truths about holiness and dedication to God.

Practical Observance:
During the Feast of Unleavened Bread, Jewish families meticulously clean their homes to remove all traces of leaven, a practice known as "bedikat chametz." This tradition is a tangible expression of the biblical command and serves as a reminder of the historical and spiritual significance of unleavened dough.

Conclusion:
Unleavened dough, as presented in the Bible, is rich with theological and symbolic meaning. It serves as a reminder of God's deliverance, a call to holiness, and a symbol of the believer's new life in Christ. Through the observance of Passover and the Feast of Unleavened Bread, the faithful are invited to reflect on their spiritual journey and commitment to living a life of purity and devotion to God.