Book of Leviticus - Chapter 23 - Verse 5
Meaning
The verse "In the fourteenth day of the first month at even is the Lord's passover" refers to the instructions given by God to the Israelites regarding the celebration of the Passover. The Passover is a significant Jewish holiday that commemorates the Israelites' liberation from slavery in Egypt. According to the Bible, the Passover was instituted during the Exodus from Egypt, when God passed over the houses of the Israelites and spared their firstborn sons from the tenth plague. The Passover is observed on the fourteenth day of the first month of the Jewish calendar, known as Nisan, and is a time for reflection, remembrance, and thanksgiving. The Passover meal, known as the Seder, includes symbolic foods and rituals that help retell the story of the Exodus and the miraculous deliverance of the Israelites. By observing the Passover, Jews honor their ancestors' faithfulness and God's faithfulness in fulfilling his promises.
Theological Overview
Exodus 12:18 marks the account of the Israelite's first Passover celebration as a significant event in their history. The theological interpretation of this verse highlights the importance of obedience to God's commands and the deliverance of His people from slavery in Egypt. The Passover has deep symbolic meaning, foreshadowing the sacrifice of Jesus Christ as the ultimate Passover Lamb. The word "even" in this verse refers to the time of twilight or dusk, signifying the transition from one day to the next, emphasizing the precise timing of the Passover observance. By studying the original Hebrew word for Passover, "pesach," scholars have uncovered its etymological roots related to protection and preservation, shedding light on the overarching theme of God's protection and deliverance of His people from harm. This verse serves as a reminder of God's faithfulness and redemption throughout history and is a foreshadowing of the ultimate redemption and salvation through Jesus Christ.