The Evolution of Passover Throughout History

The Evolution of Passover Throughout History

What are the roots of the Passover festival, and how has its observance changed over time? This article from My Jewish Learning examines the various names given to this holiday in the Torah as well as other pagan festivals that took place around the same time, comparing the dates, rituals, and significance behind the various celebrations. The observance of the holiday evolved throughout Jewish history, such as eating unleavened bread during biblical times, offering animal and agricultural sacrifices in Temple times, and the development of the seder and the accompanying Haggadh in Talmudic times. Including modern-day rituals, the article suggests that by giving the ancient festival contemporary significance, each generation has fulfilled the mitzvah of reliving the Exodus.