Apr 13, 200608:00 AMThe Life

Passover

Passover ("Pesach") begins on the 15th day of the Jewish month of Nissan, which falls on March 13 this year. But the Jewish day starts at sundown the night before, so Passover officially began yesterday.

This observance is related to the Exodus of Jews from Egypt after generations of slavery, commemorating God's mercy in "passing over" Jewish houses when he was slaying the firstborn of Egypt.

Probably the most significant Passover custom involves the removal of leavening from Jewish homes, memorializing the haste with which the Jews left Egypt. They were in such a hurry, they didn't have time to let their bread rise.

It is also a symbolic way to remove the soul's "puffiness" (arrogance or pride).

Pass the Matzah...