Introduction:
The Feast of Passover, also known simply as Passover, is one of the most significant and ancient festivals in the Jewish calendar. It commemorates the Israelites' deliverance from slavery in Egypt, as recorded in the Book of Exodus. This feast is rich in symbolism and holds profound theological significance within the Judeo-Christian tradition.

Biblical Origin:
The origins of Passover are found in the Book of Exodus. God commanded Moses to institute the Passover as a perpetual ordinance for the Israelites. The event is described in Exodus 12, where God instructs the Israelites to sacrifice a lamb without blemish and to mark their doorposts with its blood. This act was a sign for the Lord to "pass over" their homes during the final plague, the death of the firstborn in Egypt. Exodus 12:13 states, "The blood on the houses where you are staying will distinguish them; when I see the blood, I will pass over you. No plague will fall on you to destroy you when I strike the land of Egypt."

Observance and Rituals:
Passover begins on the 14th day of the Hebrew month of Nisan and lasts for seven days (eight days in the Diaspora). The central ritual of Passover is the Seder, a ceremonial meal that includes the retelling of the Exodus account. Key elements of the Seder include:

· The Paschal Lamb: Originally, a lamb was sacrificed and eaten as part of the meal. Today, a shank bone is often used as a symbolic reminder.
· Unleavened Bread (Matzah): The Israelites left Egypt in haste, without time for their bread to rise. Exodus 12:39 recounts, "They baked unleavened cakes of the dough that they had brought out of Egypt, for it was without yeast; because they had been driven out of Egypt and could not delay, they had not prepared any provisions for themselves."
· Bitter Herbs (Maror): These symbolize the bitterness of slavery in Egypt.

Theological Significance:
Passover is a profound reminder of God's deliverance and faithfulness. It emphasizes themes of redemption, sacrifice, and covenant. The blood of the lamb, which protected the Israelites, prefigures the ultimate sacrifice of Jesus Christ, the "Lamb of God," as described in the New Testament. In 1 Corinthians 5:7 , Paul writes, "For Christ, our Passover lamb, has been sacrificed."

New Testament Connections:
The Last Supper, which Jesus shared with His disciples, was a Passover meal. During this meal, Jesus instituted the Lord's Supper, or Communion, as a new covenant in His blood. Luke 22:19-20 records, "And He took the bread, gave thanks, broke it, and gave it to them, saying, 'This is My body, given for you; do this in remembrance of Me.' In the same way, after supper He took the cup, saying, 'This cup is the new covenant in My blood, which is poured out for you.'"

Cultural and Historical Impact:
Passover has been celebrated by Jewish communities for millennia, serving as a cornerstone of Jewish identity and faith. It has also influenced Christian liturgical practices, particularly in the observance of Easter, which celebrates the resurrection of Jesus and is closely linked to Passover in timing and symbolism.

Conclusion:
The Feast of Passover remains a vital observance, rich in historical and spiritual meaning. It serves as a powerful reminder of God's deliverance and the hope of redemption through faith.