Passover

Passover, as observed in many communities globally, is a significant Jewish festival that commemorates the liberation of the Israelites from slavery in ancient Egypt, as described in the Book of Exodus. This eight-day celebration is characterised by various customs, including the Seder meal, the removal of leavened products (chametz) from the home, and the eating of a type of unleavened bread known as matzah. The Seder meal, in particular, is highly symbolic, involving various rituals from drinking four cups of wine signifying God's four promises of redemption, to retelling the story of the Exodus.

Roots of Passover can be traced back to Biblical times, and the festival has been observed by Jewish communities for over 3000 years. In the UK, Jewish communities have a rich history and have continued to observe Passover and its rituals. Moreover, it's worth noting that more than just being a religious observance, Passover also serves as a time of introspection and learning, with particular emphasis on themes of freedom, justice, and social responsibility. Over time, these values have resonated with not only Jewish communities but also with many others in the UK, making Passover observances a broader reminder of shared societal values.

In terms of observing Passover in the UK, the customs are largely similar to global Jewish practices. The festival usually begins with the Seder meal on the first night, where families and friends gather to retell the Exodus story and share in symbolic foods. The following week is marked by abstaining from leavened products and participating in various community events and prayers. In the UK, Passover typically coincides with the Christian observance of Easter, as it starts on the 15th day of Nissan in the Hebrew calendar, which usually falls in March or April according to the Gregorian calendar.