Passover Commemorates a Nation's Birth

Passover marks the historical and religious commemoration of the birth of the Jewish nation, dedicated to the worship of Yahweh, or God. The holiday retells the story of the Israelites’ escape from slavery and their exodus from Egypt, a pivotal event in Jewish history.

The Story of the Exodus

According to the book of Exodus, the Israelites were enslaved in ancient Egypt. God instructed Moses to demand the release of His people from the ruling Pharaoh. When Pharaoh refused, God brought ten plagues upon Egypt, culminating in the death of the firstborn son in each Egyptian household.

The Protection of the Israelites

Jews were instructed to sacrifice a lamb or kid and smear its blood on their doorposts. This act signaled the Angel of Death to “pass over” those homes, sparing the Israelite firstborn sons. Following this final plague, Pharaoh relented and allowed the Israelites to depart.

The Seder Meal and its Symbolism

The celebration begins with the Seder meal, initiated with the question, “Why is this night different from all other nights?” This prompts a retelling of the Exodus story, traditionally led by the youngest child at the table, fulfilling the commandment, “And thou shalt tell thy son.”

Symbolic Foods and Rituals

  • Matzoh (Unleavened Bread): Eaten to remember the haste of the Exodus, when there was no time for bread to rise.
  • Charoset: A mixture of apples and nuts resembling the clay used by Israelite slaves to make bricks. Bitter herbs are dipped into it to symbolize the hardship of slavery.
  • Parsley and Salt Water: Parsley represents the arrival of spring and new life, while the salt water symbolizes the tears of the enslaved Israelites.
  • Leaning on a Pillow: A practice symbolizing the comfort of freedom, contrasting with the past experience of slavery.

Observance and Duration

Passover is observed for seven days in Israel and among Reform Jews, and for eight days among Conservative and Orthodox Jews in the diaspora. The first and last days are considered full festivals, marked by abstention from work, special prayer services, and festive meals. Throughout the observance, Jews abstain from eating leavened bread.

A Universal Message of Freedom

Passover is a time for humility and remembrance of the suffering endured by those in slavery. Above all, it is a celebration of freedom and the opportunities that arise when individuals are no longer subjected to oppression. The story of the Jewish Exodus has served as an inspiration for those facing oppression throughout history, including enslaved African Americans.

The holiday serves as a powerful reminder that freedom is invaluable and that God desires liberation from human oppression.