What is the meaning of Passover?

For Jews, Passover is a time to commemorate our past, give thanks for today, and pray for a better tomorrow. In the Torah, Moses instructs all of Israel in the laws of Passover and the traditions to be observed for generations to come.

Passover begins on the 14th day of the Jewish month of Nisan. Family and friends gather for a special meal called a Seder which means order. As the meaning of Seder suggests there is a specific order to the meal and the re-telling of the Israelites exodus from Egypt.

As Jews prepare for their Passover seders the events unfolding in Israel will be weighing heavy in our hearts. The senseless murders by Hamas on Oct. 7th are kept fresh each day that goes by without the release of the hostages. Iran’s attack on Israel leaves many of us wondering what will happen next. It is definitely uncertain times. We have more questions than we do answers. I understand but it’s important not to get stuck in what we cannot control. Instead, we can look to our ancestors for hope. Moses, Miriam and Aaron had no idea what it would mean to leave Egypt. Their fear of the unknown must have been great. And yet, they found the strength. As their descendants who carry that strength in our DNA, we too will get through.

For me, there is something very beautiful and meaningful in the power of the Passover seder. Whether a Jew by birth or by choice, a non-Jew who is strong in their own faith, GLBTQ+, and or a person of color, we can gather as a community to shed our fears and bond in friendship by recognizing our shared oppression. The gift of bringing people together in love, light, and appreciation is one of the greatest lessons for us to learn.

Wishing each of you who celebrate at your Passover seders the sounds of ruach (joyous spirit) from family and friends and bellies full of matzah!

Rabbi Jeshayahu ‘Shai’ Beloosesky is the rabbi at Temple Avodah, a Reform synagogue at 3050 Oceanside Road.