Passover

Passover, or Pesach, is a major Jewish holiday that takes place in the spring, starting on the 15th day of the Hebrew month of Nisan. It is one of the Three Pilgrimage Festivals mentioned in the Bible and commemorates the Israelites' escape from slavery in Egypt. The name "Passover" originates from the story in which God "passed over" the homes of the Israelites during the final of the ten plagues. In Israel, Passover is celebrated for seven days, whereas many Jews outside of Israel observe it for eight days due to the tradition of yom tov sheni shel galuyot.

The word "Pesach" can refer to the holiday itself, the sacrificial lamb, or the act of passing over. The holiday encompasses many traditions, including abstaining from leavened foods, holding a special meal called the Passover Seder, and eating symbolic foods such as matzah (unleavened bread) and bitter herbs. The story of Passover is found in the Book of Exodus, which narrates how the Israelites were freed from Egypt.

A significant aspect of Passover is the elimination of leavened products, known as chametz, before the holiday begins. This involves a thorough search of the home to remove any chametz. Another tradition is the Counting of the Omer, which begins during Passover and continues until another holiday called Shavuot.

The Passover Seder is a special dinner held on the first night of Passover. During the Seder, the Exodus story is recounted using a book called the Haggadah. Participants drink four cups of wine, ask questions, and eat symbolic foods like matzah and maror (bitter herbs).

During the intermediate days of Passover, known as Chol HaMoed, families often engage in outings and enjoy Passover-friendly treats. The seventh day of Passover commemorates the splitting of the Red Sea and the drowning of the Egyptian army. There is also a minor holiday called Pesach Sheni on the 14th of Iyar, which serves as a make-up day for those who could not offer the Passover sacrifice on time.

Passover foods can vary depending on whether you are Ashkenazi or Sephardi. Common dishes include matzah brei, gefilte fish, charoset, kafteikas di prasa (leek patties), and lamb or chicken legs.

Interestingly, Passover is also observed in other religions. Samaritans and Karaites have their own Passover traditions, and some Christian denominations celebrate it as well. In Islam, the fasting day of Ashurah is associated with the Passover story and the Exodus.