When is Passover and how is it celebrated? What to know about the Jewish holiday
Each spring, the Jewish holiday known as Passover is celebrated by millions worldwide, a day that is steeped in antiquity and is marked by remembrance and tradition for Jewish individuals and communities.
For eight consecutive days, Jews participate in what's known as Pesach, or "Passover" in Hebrew, where a cumulative experience of religious history, education, and festivities come together to commemorate the biblical account of Exodus in the Hebrew Bible.
Observance of Passover typically coincides with Easter, although dates vary each year depending on the lunar cycle. This is due to the fact that Passover always begins on the night of a full moon in accordance with the Jewish calendar.
Moreover, the holiday signifies the commencement of the harvest season in traditional Israeli agriculture, making it a significant and sacred occasion for both Hasidic and Reform Jews.
When does Passover start?
In 2024, Passover will begin in the evening of Monday, April 22, and will last through April 30 just after sundown.
What is Passover?
Within Judaism, Passover symbolizes the ancient Israelites' freedom from slavery in Egypt and underscores God's faithfulness, as detailed in the Torah's biblical narrative. The term "Passover" originates from the Exodus account, signifying the Jewish people being spared from the devastating plagues brought about by God.
In the Jewish calendar, Passover begins on the 15th day of the month of Nisan, typically falling between March and April. Although it typically lasts for eight days, Jews in Israel generally observe only seven days. According to Jewish customs, work is usually prohibited on the first and last days of the holiday.
How is Passover celebrated today?
Rich in traditional customs and ceremonies, Passover is often marked by a special feast or family meal called Seder. Alongside this, recitations, songs, sacred prayers, and various other rituals and practices are observed. Synagogues also host special services dedicated to the holiday during this time.
Despite rejoicing, however, Passover is also associated with strict dietary laws due to the symbolic significance that is reflected in the passages of Exodus. Recognition of modern-day oppression and themes of social justice are also observed.
What is the Passover meal?
During the initial night of Passover, a distinctive meal called a Seder is arranged, featuring a type of unleavened bread known as "matzo." Since consuming leavened foods is forbidden throughout Passover, matzo serves as a replacement, aligning with Jewish doctrine. Additionally, leavened products are removed from the household in a practice known as "chametz."
During Seder, other distinct foods are customarily served, including "karpas," a vegetable dipped in saltwater, "maror," bitter herbs, and "zeroa," typically a roasted goat or lamb bone. Each ingredient in the Seder meal, typically prepared according to kosher standards, holds significance in sacred preparation and Hasidic symbolism.
Passages from the Haggadah, a formal Hebrew text, is also read during Seder, which retells the salvation and redemption of the ancient Israelites.
Where can you celebrate Passover in Arizona?
Beginning on Monday, April 22, the World Wide Kosher Passover Program will be hosting its 30th annual event at the Embassy Suites by Hilton Scottsdale Resort.
Featuring traditional Seder meals and a variety of different activities, the program is now taking reservations and is open to all communities who observe the holiday.
This article originally appeared on Arizona Republic: When does Passover start? What to know about Jewish holiday
