Everything you need to know to celebrate the holiday.
Passover 2013 begins in the evening of Monday, March 25, and ends in the evening of Tuesday, April 2.
What is Passover?
Passover is a freedom festival. It commemorates the Exodus of the Israelites from Egypt, and their departure from slavery to freedom. Passover's main ritual is the seder, which occurs on the first night (or the first two nights) of the holiday--a festive meal that involves the re-enactment of the Exodus through stories, songs, and ritual foods, such as matzah and maror.
What are some Passover practices?
The most marked Passover practice is a set of intense changes to the usual dietary cycle, including the absence of hametz, or leavened foods. The joyous cycle of psalms called Hallel is recited both at night, during the seder, and in prayers during the day. Additionally, Passover is the start of a 49-day period called the Omer, which symbolizes the count between offerings brought to the Temple in Jerusalem. This count culminates in the joyous holiday of Shavuot, the anniversary of receiving the Torah.
What foods do we eat on Passover?
Matzah, or unleavened bread, is the main food of Passover. You can buy it in many stores, or you can make your own. But it doesn't stop there! There are many traditional favorites, from haroset (a mixture of apples, nuts, and cinnamon) to matzo ball soup, that are eaten--and there's a myriad of creative ways to cook without leavening.
Did you like this article? MyJewishLearning is a not-for-profit organization.