Passover

Passover, also known as Pesach in Hebrew, is a major Jewish holiday observed by Jews worldwide. Its primary purpose is to commemorate the liberation of the Israelites from slavery in ancient Egypt, as told in the Book of Exodus in the Bible. During the Observance, Jews abstain from consuming leavened food and beverages, known collectively as chametz, for seven or eight days, replacing them with matzah, a flat unleavened bread. The Seder, a meal laden with symbolism and accompanied by the retelling of the liberation story, is a central component.

The Passover tradition was established over 3,000 years ago and over millennia, different Jewish communities have developed unique traditions and customs. In South Africa, a vibrant Jewish community exists, encapsulating a blend of cultures and traditions from Lithuania, England, and other countries due to the waves of Jewish immigration throughout history. Passover for South African Jews is not just a religious event, but also a significant social and family occasion. Traditional Passover foods like gefilte fish, matzah ball soup, and potato kugel often feature on South African Seder tables, alongside local fare.

Observance of Passover in South Africa resembles global practices, revolving around the Seder meal and readings from the Haggadah. This encapsulates both religious recitations and social aspects, with families and friends gathering to share the meal and retell the Exodus story. Additionally, Israeli folk dancing and singing have been integrated into the post-Seder celebrations for some communities, showcasing the vibrant Judaic culture. Specific to South Africa, the Observance begins in the evening, a day subsequent to the commencement in Israel due to time zone differences. This occurrence rotates yearly according to the Hebrew lunar calendar, generally falling between late March and late April. The Observance marks not only a spiritual commemoration but also an affirmation of South African Jewish identity and heritage.