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when passover 2025

when passover 2025

2 min read 23-11-2024
when passover 2025

Passover 2025 will be observed from sunset on Friday, April 18th, to sunset on Saturday, April 26th. This eight-day festival commemorates the liberation of the Israelites from slavery in ancient Egypt, a pivotal moment in Jewish history. Understanding the dates allows you to plan ahead for Seders, family gatherings, and participation in this significant holiday.

Understanding the Passover Calendar

The date of Passover changes each year because it follows the Hebrew lunar calendar. This means the festival isn't fixed to a specific date on the Gregorian calendar (the one most of the world uses). Instead, Passover always begins on the 15th day of the Jewish month of Nissan, which falls in the spring.

This year's Passover falls relatively early in April, but the exact dates can vary from year to year, sometimes falling in late March or early April.

Planning for Passover 2025

Knowing the dates for Passover 2025 gives you ample time to prepare:

  • Seders: The Seder is the central ritual of Passover, a special meal with symbolic foods and readings from the Haggadah. Many families plan their Seders well in advance, inviting guests and making reservations at restaurants if necessary.

  • Family Gatherings: Passover is a time for family and community. Use the date to plan visits with loved ones and coordinate schedules accordingly.

  • Travel Plans: If you plan to travel for Passover, book flights and accommodation early to secure the best deals and avoid potential conflicts.

  • Dietary Preparations: Passover observes strict dietary laws, specifically avoiding leavened bread (chametz). Start planning your Passover menu and shopping for kosher-for-Passover ingredients ahead of time.

Key Dates and Observances

While the main dates are April 18th-26th, it's helpful to note some key observances:

  • Erev Passover (Passover Eve): The evening of April 18th marks the beginning of Passover with the first Seder.

  • First Seder: Friday, April 18th, evening.

  • Second Seder: Saturday, April 19th, evening. This Seder is often celebrated by those who have larger families or wish to spread out the celebration.

  • Yom Tov (Holidays): April 19th-22nd are the intermediate days of Passover (chol hamoed).

Beyond the Dates: The Meaning of Passover

The dates are important, but the true significance of Passover lies in its message of freedom, resilience, and hope. It's a time for reflection on the past, celebration of the present, and anticipation of the future. Whether you're planning a grand Seder or a quiet family meal, remember the profound history and meaning behind this cherished holiday.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: What is Chametz?

A: Chametz refers to leavened products – foods containing wheat, barley, rye, oats, or spelt that have risen. These are strictly forbidden during Passover.

Q: What is the Haggadah?

A: The Haggadah is a book containing the text and rituals for the Seder. It narrates the story of the Exodus from Egypt and provides guidance for the Seder meal.

Q: What are some traditional Passover foods?

A: Matzah (unleavened bread), maror (bitter herbs), charoset (a sweet paste), and karpas (a vegetable) are just a few of the many symbolic foods eaten during the Seder.

By understanding the dates and significance of Passover 2025, you can better prepare for and appreciate this important Jewish holiday. Chag Kasher V'Sameach! (Happy Passover!)