Passover, or Pesach in Hebrew, is one of the most important and widely celebrated holidays in Judaism. It commemorates the biblical story of the Exodus, when the Israelites were freed from slavery in ancient Egypt. Lasting seven to eight days, Passover is marked by special rituals, family gatherings, and symbolic foods. From removing chametz (leavened food) to hosting the festive Seder meal, this holiday serves as a time to reflect on themes of freedom, faith, and resilience.
Whether you’re observing the tradition or simply curious about it, understanding Passover offers insight into Jewish history, culture, and values.
Key Details about Passover
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Holiday Name | Passover (Pesach) |
| Observed By | Jewish communities worldwide |
| Type | Religious, historical, cultural |
| Date (Hebrew Calendar) | 15th of Nisan |
| Date (Gregorian Calendar) | Typically March or April (varies yearly) |
| Duration | 7 days in Israel, 8 days in the Diaspora |
| Main Ritual | The Passover Seder (held on the first one or two nights) |
| Key Symbols | Matzah (unleavened bread), Seder plate, four cups of wine, Haggadah (book of the Exodus story) |
| Prohibited Items | Chametz (leavened food and drinks) |
| Origin | Commemorates the Israelites’ liberation from slavery in Egypt as described in the Book of Exodus |
The Story Behind Passover
The story of Passover begins in the Book of Exodus. The Israelites had been enslaved by the Pharaoh in Egypt for generations. God commanded Moses to lead his people to freedom. After Pharaoh refused, God sent ten plagues upon Egypt. The final plague—the death of the firstborn—passed over the homes of the Israelites, who had marked their doors with lamb’s blood. This is where the term “Passover” comes from.
Finally, Pharaoh relented, and the Israelites fled Egypt in haste, without time for their bread to rise—hence the tradition of eating matzah.
Why Is Passover Celebrated?
Passover is observed to remember the Israelites’ miraculous escape from slavery in Egypt. The story, found in the Book of Exodus, is one of resilience, divine intervention, and the triumph of freedom over oppression. Jews around the world honor this history by celebrating the values of liberty, faith, and tradition.
How Passover Is Celebrated
1. Cleaning the Home
Before Passover, Jewish households remove all chametz. This includes bread, pasta, and even crumbs. Some even sell their chametz temporarily or burn it in a ritual.
2. The Passover Seder
The highlight of Passover is the Seder, a ceremonial meal full of storytelling, songs, and symbolic foods. The story of the Exodus is read from a book called the Haggadah.
Seder Plate Items:
- Matzah: Symbolizes the haste in leaving Egypt.
- Maror (bitter herbs): Represents the bitterness of slavery.
- Charoset: A sweet mix symbolizing the mortar used in slavery.
- Karpas (parsley): Dipped in salt water to represent tears.
- Z’roa (shank bone): Represents the sacrificed lamb.
- Beitzah (roasted egg): Symbolizes mourning and the festival offering.
3. Special Foods
In addition to the symbolic items, many families enjoy traditional dishes like:
- Matzah ball soup
- Brisket or roast chicken
- Gefilte fish
- Kosher-for-Passover desserts like macaroons
Passover Dates: When Is Passover Celebrated?
Passover follows the Hebrew calendar, beginning on the 15th of Nisan. Since the Hebrew and Gregorian calendars differ, the dates of Passover change each year.
Upcoming Passover start and end dates:
| Year | Passover Begins (at sunset) | Passover Ends (at nightfall) | Duration in Israel | Duration in Diaspora |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2025 | Saturday, April 12, 2025 | Sunday, April 20, 2025 | 7 Days | 8 Days |
| 2026 | Wednesday, April 1, 2026 | Thursday, April 9, 2026 | 7 Days | 8 Days |
| 2027 | Monday, April 20, 2027 | Tuesday, April 27, 2027 | 7 Days | 8 Days |
| 2028 | Saturday, April 8, 2028 | Sunday, April 16, 2028 | 7 Days | 8 Days |
| 2029 | Wednesday, March 28, 2029 | Thursday, April 5, 2029 | 7 Days | 8 Days |
✨ Note: Passover begins at sunset, as per Jewish tradition, and ends at nightfall on the final day.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is the meaning of Passover?
Passover commemorates the Exodus of the Israelites from Egypt and their journey to freedom. It celebrates liberation, hope, and renewal.
Why do people eat matzah during Passover?
Matzah is eaten to remember how the Israelites left Egypt quickly, without time for their bread to rise.
What is forbidden during Passover?
Jews avoid chametz (leavened products) during Passover. This includes bread, cake, pasta, and anything made with yeast or fermented grains.
What happens at the Passover Seder?
The Seder includes reading the Haggadah, eating symbolic foods, drinking four cups of wine, and retelling the story of the Exodus.
How long is Passover celebrated?
It lasts for 7 days in Israel and 8 days in most other Jewish communities around the world.
