The Start of Passover

Written by: Oliver Wren - (updated: October 8th, 2024 at 10:25PM)

The air is electric with excitement as families gather around the table, surrounded by the familiar sights, sounds, and scents of a centuries-old tradition. For in the Jewish faith, The Start of Passover marks the beginning of a week-long celebration commemorating the Israelites' liberation from slavery in ancient Egypt.

The Seder Plate: A Symbolic Feast

At the heart of this joyous celebration lies the traditional Seder meal, a ritual feast that retells the story of the Exodus through the reading of the Haggadah. A central element of this feast is the Seder plate, adorned with symbolic foods that represent different aspects of the Israelites' journey.

• Matzah: a cracker-like bread, representing the haste with which the Israelites fled Egypt, leaving no time for their bread to rise.
• Charoset: a sweet and tangy mixture of apples, nuts, and wine, symbolizing the mortar used by the Israelites in their forced labor.
• Maror: a bitter herb, typically represented by horseradish, signifying the bitterness of slavery.

Purifying the Home: The Removal of Chametz

In preparation for The Start of Passover, Jewish families undertake the meticulous task of removing chametz, or leavened products, from their homes. This symbolic act is a powerful reminder of the Israelites' hasty departure from Egypt, leaving behind the comforts of slavery.

In its place, families welcome in kosher-for-Passover foods, carefully selected to adhere to the ancient traditions and laws governing this sacred holiday.

A Celebration of Freedom and Community

As families gather together to share in the joy and gratitude of freedom, they are reminded of the importance of community, faith, and redemption. The Start of Passover serves as a poignant reminder of the Israelites' journey, from slavery to freedom, and the enduring power of faith and determination.

In this sense, Passover is more than a holiday – it is a testament to the human spirit, a celebration of the unyielding quest for freedom and the unwavering power of community.

As the sun sets on the first day of Passover, families around the world will come together, united in their shared heritage and the time-honored traditions that bring them closer to their shared history.

In the warm glow of candlelight, surrounded by loved ones and the familiar rituals of the Seder, the true essence of The Start of Passover shines brightly – a radiant beacon of hope, freedom, and the unwavering power of community.