What holiday did Jesus die? This question has intrigued Christians and scholars alike for centuries. The answer lies in the historical context of Jesus’ crucifixion, which is traditionally associated with the Jewish holiday of Passover. Understanding the connection between these two events is crucial to grasping the significance of Easter, the Christian holiday celebrating Jesus’ resurrection.
The Passover is a Jewish festival commemorating the Exodus of the Israelites from slavery in Egypt, led by Moses. It is celebrated in the springtime, specifically in the Hebrew month of Nisan, which corresponds to March or April on the Gregorian calendar. Jesus’ crucifixion is believed to have occurred during this time, around the year 33 AD.
During the Passover, the Jewish people were commanded to sacrifice a lamb without blemish and to eat it roasted with unleavened bread, representing the unleavened bread eaten by the Israelites during their hurried departure from Egypt. The lamb’s blood was also used to mark the doorposts of their homes, symbolizing protection from the angel of death. This ritual was meant to be a reminder of God’s deliverance and the freedom from bondage that the Israelites had experienced.
In the New Testament, the Passover is depicted as the backdrop for Jesus’ last supper with his disciples. This event is considered the fulfillment of the Old Testament prophecy of the “lamb of God,” who would take away the sins of the world. Jesus, in his final meal with his followers, identifies himself as this lamb, saying, “This is my body, which is given for you; do this in remembrance of me” (Luke 22:19).
As the Passover festivities continued, Jesus was betrayed by Judas Iscariot, one of his twelve disciples. He was then arrested, tried, and ultimately crucified. The crucifixion is seen as the ultimate expression of Jesus’ love and sacrifice for humanity. Christians believe that through his death, Jesus atoned for the sins of humanity and opened the way to eternal life.
The crucifixion of Jesus is commemorated on Good Friday, which is the day before Easter Sunday. Easter Sunday marks the resurrection of Jesus, signifying his victory over death and the promise of eternal life. The connection between the Passover and Easter highlights the fulfillment of Old Testament prophecies in the New Testament and underscores the significance of Jesus’ life, death, and resurrection in Christian theology.
In conclusion, the holiday that Jesus died is the Passover, a Jewish festival celebrating the Exodus of the Israelites. The events surrounding Jesus’ crucifixion and resurrection are deeply rooted in this historical context, making the connection between Passover and Easter a vital aspect of Christian belief and celebration.
