PASSOVER meaning and definition

Reading time: 2-3 minutes

The Significance of Passover: A Celebration of Freedom and Redemption

Passover, also known as Pesach in Hebrew, is one of the most important holidays in the Jewish calendar. Observed by Jews around the world, this seven-day festival commemorates the Israelites' liberation from slavery in ancient Egypt. In this article, we'll delve into the history and meaning behind Passover, exploring its significance and traditions.

The Story Behind Passover

According to the Hebrew Bible, the Israelites were enslaved in Egypt for over 200 years. The pharaoh, worried about the growing power of the Israelite population, ordered the death of all newborn male Israelites (Exodus 1:15-22). However, God heard the cries of his people and sent Moses to lead them out of slavery.

The Passover story begins with the tenth plague, in which the angel of death passes over the homes of the Israelites, sparing their firstborn sons. The night before this event, Jewish families would have sacrificed a lamb or goat as an offering to God, marking the beginning of the festival (Exodus 12:1-14).

The Symbolism of Passover

Passover is more than just a celebration of freedom; it's also a reminder of the importance of remembering and commemorating our history. The holiday has several symbolic elements:

The Seder Plate: The centerpiece of any Passover Seder (a ceremonial meal) is the Seder plate, which features six items:
- Charoset: A sweet paste made from apples, walnuts, and cinnamon, representing the mortar used by Israelite slaves to build Egyptian cities.
- Maror: A bitter herb, symbolizing the bitterness of slavery.
- Karpas: A green vegetable or lettuce, representing new life and freedom.
- Saltwater: A reminder of the tears shed during slavery.
- Shankbone: A reminder of the sacrifice made for our freedom.
- Egg: Representing new life and the cycle of birth and death.
The Afikomen: During the Seder, a piece of matzah (unleavened bread) is hidden, and children are encouraged to find it. This represents the search for spiritual enlightenment and redemption.

Traditions and Customs

Passover is marked by various customs and traditions:

Dietary Restrictions: For seven days, observant Jews refrain from eating leavened foods (containing yeast or baking powder) and focus on consuming matzah and other Passover-approved dishes.
Seder: A ceremonial meal with family and friends, featuring the retelling of the Passover story and the recitation of special prayers.
Removing Chametz: The act of cleaning one's home to remove all leavened products before Passover begins is a significant ritual.

Conclusion

Passover is a celebration of freedom, redemption, and the enduring bond between Jewish people and their heritage. It serves as a reminder that even in the darkest times, hope and liberation are always within reach. As Jews around the world come together to mark this special holiday, we're reminded of the importance of community, tradition, and the pursuit of spiritual enlightenment.

In the words of the Passover Haggadah: "This year we were slaves in Egypt; next year may we be free in our own land." May the spirit of Passover bring us closer to our heritage and guide us toward a brighter future.