This year, Passover will be held on April 13. This Jewish holiday is celebrated to commemorate the historic deliverance of the Jews/Israelites from slavery in Egypt. Passover is celebrated by Jews in family gatherings, where they eat a special meal known as the Seder, consisting of bitter herbs, unleavened bread, and meat, all with significant meanings. Passover also has great significance in the Christian world because of its symbolism. In modern times, Passover is celebrated for about eight days or seven days in some Reform Jewish groups.
History of Last day of Passover
Passover is a period of celebration that marks the historic liberation of the Jews from slavery in Egypt. The origin of the Passover can be traced to Biblical times. Joseph, one of the patriarchs of the Jews, was sold into slavery by his brothers and ended up in Egypt. However, the hand of God was with him, and he eventually became the prime minister of the whole nation. His brothers and their families later joined him in Egypt, and this was the beginning of the Jews’ sojourn in Egypt. At first, they were mere foreigners living in the land but after the death of Joseph, the Egyptians forced them into slavery and abusive treatment. After about four hundred years of their suffering, Moses arose as a leader of the Jews and demanded that Pharaoh, the leader of Egypt, release the Jews and allow them to leave without hindrance.When Pharaoh refused to grant this request, God sent ten plagues upon Egypt, starting with the water of the Nile River turning into blood. Before the final and deadliest plague, God instructed the Jews to put the blood of lambs upon their doors to protect themselves from the Angel of Death. On that night, every firstborn son in Egypt died. This is where the word “Passover” originated from when the Angel of Death passed over the Jews and spared their firstborns.Ever since Passover has been celebrated in honor of their freedom from slavery. Passover is also known as ‘Pesah’, ‘Pesach’ or the ‘Feast of Unleavened Bread,’ owing to the fact that they were instructed by God to eat unleavened bread, which is, bread without yeast, on Passover night.
Last day of Passover timeline
Joseph is sold into slavery by his brothers and taken to Egypt.
The Israelites receive freedom from Egypt.
One year after the Exodus, the Israelites celebrate their first Passover as free people.
The last day of Passover is celebrated by drinking red wine and breaking bread.
Last day of Passover FAQs
Why is Passover celebrated either for seven or eight days?
In Israel, Passover is celebrated for seven days but in the Jewish diaspora, it is celebrated for eight days. This is because the beginning of a new moon was officially declared by the “Sanhedrin” in Israel. In ancient times, it would take a while before this could be passed across to Jews outside Israel, which is why they began celebrating all Jewish holidays (except “Yom Kippur”) for two days, just in case they were mistaken about the precise day.
Why is unleavened bread eaten during Passover?
Unleavened bread signifies the fact that the Jews had no time to allow their bread to rise because they left Egypt in haste.
What are the primary observances of Passover?
The primary observances of Passover are related to the Exodus from Egypt after 400 years of slavery, as told in the biblical book of Exodus from chapters 1 to 15.
How to Observe Last day of Passover
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Enjoy with family!
If you’re a Jewish person, this is a great opportunity to gather with family and observe the long-lasting traditions of Passover. Take part in the special meals and reflect on the significance of the day.
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Celebrate with others
If you have a Jewish friend, co-worker, or neighbor, wish them a happy Passover. Celebrate with them!
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Share on social media
Let others know the importance of this holiday by sharing your knowledge. You can use social media handles or by direct communication.
5 Facts About Foods Used For Passover
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Matzo
Matzo is basically unleavened bread.
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Bitter herbs
Also known as ‘maror’, bitter herbs are usually horseradish or romaine lettuce.
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Karpas
Karpas is a green leafy vegetable to be eaten as part of the ‘Seder’.
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Charoset This is a pasty mixture made from fruits, nuts, and wine or honey — it symbolizes the mortar the Israelites used in laying bricks for Pharaoh.
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Shank bone
The shank bone is used to represent the sacrificial lambs whose blood was placed on the doorposts of the Israelites’ homes during Passover.
Why Last day of Passover is Important
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We get to celebrate Jewish heritage
We love Passover because it’s a time for Jews around the world to share in a common celebration of their heritage. We honor the nation for its tenacity and courage.
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It is a reminder of liberty
Passover is a reminder that in parts of the world, slavery is a thing of the past. It reminds us to appreciate our freedom and liberty.
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Family comes together
Passover is a time for families to come together and experience that sense of community. The first Passover meal was shared by people within their families, which is why the loving tradition continues to this day.
Last day of Passover dates
| Year | Date | Day |
|---|---|---|
| 2022 | April 23 | Saturday |
| 2023 | April 13 | Thursday |
| 2024 | April 30 | Tuesday |
| 2025 | April 20 | Sunday |
| 2026 | April 9 | Thursday |
