16 Questions
What is the significance of eating matzah and maror during Passover?
To commemorate the emancipation of the Israelites from slavery in ancient Egypt.
Why is chametz strictly avoided during Passover?
To remember the haste in which the Israelites left Egypt, not giving the bread time to rise.
What is the duration of Passover celebration?
8 days (7 days in Israel)
What event does Passover (Pesach) commemorate?
The emancipation of the Israelites from slavery in ancient Egypt.
What is the Hebrew meaning of Pesach?
"To pass over"
What are the key components of the Passover Seder meals?
Four cups of wine, eating matzah, bitter herbs, and retelling the story of the Exodus.
What was the message Moses delivered to Pharaoh from G-d?
Send forth My people, so that they may serve Me
What event led to Pharaoh eventually allowing the Israelites to leave Egypt?
The killing of all the firstborn in Egypt during the tenth plague
What does the term 'Passover' refer to?
God passing over the homes of the Israelites during the final plague
What is the significance of eating matzah during Passover?
To commemorate the unleavened bread eaten by the Israelites when they left Egypt
What is the main food restriction during Passover?
Avoiding chametz (leavened grain)
What is the significance of the Seder during Passover?
It is a fifteen-step family-oriented tradition and ritual-packed feast
How is the holiday of Passover divided?
Into two parts: full-fledged holidays and semi-festive 'intermediate days'
What is the significance of the four cups of wine or grape juice during the Seder?
They symbolize a royal drink to celebrate newfound freedom
What is shmurah matzah and why is it ideal to use during Passover?
Matzah zealously guarded against moisture, used during Passover
What is done with chametz that cannot be disposed of before Passover?
It can be sold to a non-Jew and bought back after the holiday
Study Notes
Passover (Pesach) Overview
- Celebrated from April 22-30, 2024
- 8-day Jewish holiday commemorating the emancipation of the Israelites from slavery in ancient Egypt
- Observed by avoiding chametz (leaven) and highlighted by Seder meals
Passover History
- Israelites were slaves in ancient Egypt for many decades, subjected to backbreaking labor and unbearable horrors
- G-d sent Moses to Pharaoh with a message: “Send forth My people, so that they may serve Me”
- Pharaoh refused to heed G-d’s command, leading to 10 devastating plagues afflicting Egypt
- On the 15th of Nissan, G-d visited the last plague on the Egyptians, killing their firstborn, while sparing the Israelites
- Pharaoh released the Israelites, who left in a hurry, baking unleavened bread for provisions
Passover Celebrations
- Divided into two parts: the first two days and last two days (commemorating the splitting of the Red Sea)
- Holiday candles are lit at night, and kiddush and sumptuous holiday meals are enjoyed
- No work, driving, writing, or switching on/off electric devices is allowed
- Middle four days are called Chol Hamoed, semi-festive “intermediate days,” when most forms of work are permitted
Chametz
- Leavened grain or food/drink containing wheat, barley, rye, oats, spelt, or their derivatives
- Avoided and removed from homes and possession during Passover
- Ridding homes of chametz involves a thorough search and destruction mission, with options to sell or dispose of chametz
Matzah
- Flat unleavened bread eaten instead of chametz
- Mitzvah to partake of matzah on the two Seder nights
- Ideal to use handmade shmurah matzah, zealously guarded against moisture from harvest to consumption
The Seder
- Highlight of Passover, observed on each of the first two nights
- 15-step family-oriented tradition and ritual-packed feast
- Focal points: eating matzah, bitter herbs, drinking four cups of wine or grape juice, and reciting the Haggadah
Learn about the significance of Passover (Pesach) celebration, including the rituals of eating matzah and drinking four cups of wine at the Seder. Get insights into the dates of Passover and the traditions followed during this important Jewish holiday.
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