Passover

Passover History

Passover, also known as Pesach, commemorates the liberation of the Israelites from slavery in ancient Egypt as depicted in the Book of Exodus. This observance is steeped in deep-seated traditions and rituals, among which the Seder meals, the removal of leavened items (chametz), and the reading of the Haggadah are prominent. These rituals are collectively performed to retell and relive the Exodus story, symbolizing a renewal of faith and a reaffirmation of freedom and redemption.

Historically, Passover dates back to biblical times around 1300 BCE, marking it as one of the oldest Jewish observances. In Canada, home to a vibrant Jewish community, the historical significance and thematic elements of Passover resonate deeply, emphasizing themes of liberation and freedom. These include the traditional Seder meals, which utilize symbolic foods to recount the Exodus story. The observance also has a contemporary resonance, as it invites reflection on modern forms of enslavement and oppression.

In Canada, Passover is observed ardently among Jewish communities - from city synagogues in Toronto and Montreal to smaller congregations across the country. While traditions can vary among different communities, many households will have a Seder meal, where specific foods are eaten, songs are sung, and the story of the Exodus is retold. Additionally, many Canadian Jews spend the weeks leading up to the start of Passover cleaning their homes of all chametz. The start of Passover typically aligns with the Jewish calendar and occurs at sunset on the 15th day of Nisan, which falls in late March or early April on the Gregorian calendar.

Facts about Start of Passover

• Traditionally, in accordance with Biblical Law, all Orthodox Jews remove all leaven bread, cakes, and flour-containing or flour-derived products from their homes in the weeks leading up to Passover. These products include beer, whiskey, flour, and all patisserie produces. Any products remaining on the Eve of Passover are given away to non-Jews, sold, or burnt.
• On Passover, Jews are to eat only unleavened bread (Matzah), baked from flour and water and prepared (mixed and baked) within eighteen minutes. Unleavened bread symbolizes Israelites leaving Egypt in such haste they could not wait for their bread dough to rise.
• On the first day of Passover it is customary to hold a Seder Night celebration with family and friends. During this celebration, the Haggadah typically read and sang. The Haggadah includes telling the story of fleeing of the Israelite slaves from Egypt, the fact that their dough could not rise due to the hurried exit, blessings over Matzah, and songs of praise and happiness.
• Institutions and schools across Canada educate about Passover to promote greater understanding and acceptance of different religions and cultures. In Toronto, the Royal Ontario Museum holds an annual Passover event illustrating the Jewish people's journey from slavery to freedom.
• Matzah, a critical element of the Passover Seder, is produced in Canada. Montreal has one of the largest matzah factories in the world called "The Boulangerie Cacher Matzot Montreal" which exports matzah all over the world, including Israel.

In the News and Trending in Canada for Passover

Top things to do in Canada for Start of Passover

• Attend a Seder dinner or learn how to make your own Seder.
• Make Matzah. You can watch how to make matzah on youtube.
• Participate in Passover Seders: Many Jewish community centers and synagogues in Canada host community Seders. It can be a wonderful experience to celebrate Passover in a community setting. For example, you may check out events hosted by the Miles Nadal Jewish Community Center in Toronto or the Jewish Community Centre of Greater Vancouver.
• Attend a Matzah Bake: Some community centers or Chabad houses host Matzah baking events. This can be a fun activity, especially if traveling with kids.