Passover, or Pesach in Hebrew, is a major Jewish holiday that commemorates the liberation of the Israelites from slavery in ancient Egypt. This deeply meaningful event is celebrated by Jews around the world with various rituals and traditions, including the Passover Seder, a special feast that retells the story of the Exodus. In 2026, Passover will begin at sundown on Wednesday, April 1st, and end at nightfall on Thursday, April 9th, for Jews in the Diaspora. In Israel, Passover will conclude on Wednesday, April 8th.
The Story of Passover
Passover recounts the biblical narrative of how the Israelites, under the leadership of Moses, were freed from their Egyptian oppressors. According to the story, God inflicted ten plagues upon Egypt, with the final plague being the death of the firstborn in every household. To protect the Israelites, they were instructed to mark their doors with the blood of a lamb, signifying that the Angel of Death should "pass over" their homes. After the tenth plague, Pharaoh finally allowed the Israelites to leave, leading to their exodus and eventual journey to the Promised Land.
Passover Preparation
Before the start of Passover, Jewish households engage in a thorough cleaning process, removing all leavened products, known as chametz, from their homes. This symbolizes the haste with which the Israelites left Egypt, not having enough time for their bread to rise. Instead, they ate unleavened bread, or matzah, which is a central element of the Passover Seder.
The Passover Seder
The Seder, held on the first two evenings of Passover (or just the first evening in Israel), is a highly structured family gathering that combines storytelling, prayer, song, and symbolic food items. The Seder is led by a Haggadah, a text that guides participants through the retelling of the Exodus story.
Key Elements of the Seder Plate
The Seder plate contains six symbolic items:
- Matzah – Three unleavened bread squares representing the haste of the Israelite departure.
- Maror – Bitter herbs, such as horseradish, symbolizing the bitterness of slavery.
- Charoset – A sweet mixture of fruits and nuts, symbolizing the mortar used by the Israelites in their labor.
- Zeroa – A roasted shank bone, representing the Passover sacrifice.
- Beitzah – A hard-boiled egg, symbolizing renewal and the cycle of life.
- Chazeret – Additional bitter herbs, often romaine lettuce, eaten with the Charoset.
The Seder Night
During the Seder, the Haggadah is read aloud, and specific rituals are performed, such as:
- Washing hands before eating the matzah.
- Drinking four cups of wine, representing God's promises to the Israelites.
- Eating matzah and maror together, symbolizing the contrast between freedom and suffering.
- Partaking in a ritual hand-washing ceremony.
- Reciting the Kiddush, a blessing over the wine.
- Singing hymns and traditional songs, like "Dayenu" and "Ha lachma anya."
Dietary Restrictions and Customs
During Passover, observant Jews abstain from eating chametz and follow strict dietary laws, ensuring that all food is kosher for Passover. This includes avoiding grains that could leaven, like wheat, barley, oats, spelt, and rye, and for some communities, even certain legumes and derivatives.
Chol HaMoed: Intermediate Days
The days between the first and last days of Passover, known as Chol HaMoed, are a time for rest and reflection, though some work is permitted. In the Diaspora, Chol HaMoed extends for six days, while in Israel, it lasts for three. During this time, additional Torah portions are read in synagogues, and families often participate in outings or special activities.
The Conclusion of Passover
On the seventh and final day of Passover, known as Pesach Sheni, there is a minor holiday that allows those who were unable to bring the Passover sacrifice on the first day a second chance. In Israel, this day is considered a minor holiday, while in the Diaspora, it is not widely observed.
The Significance of Passover Today
Passover remains a powerful reminder of freedom and resilience, not just for the Jewish people but for all who seek liberty and justice. Its themes of liberation, perseverance, and hope continue to resonate, making Passover a universally inspiring holiday. As Jews around the world gather to celebrate Passover in 2026, they will not only retell the story of their ancestors but also reflect on the ongoing struggle for freedom and equality in their own lives and in the world at large.
