Article March 18, 2002 Issue

How your Jewish friends might celebrate Passover

By Sharla Pugh

WHEN JESUS WAS JUST 12 YEARS OLD , he went at Passover time to Jerusalem with his mother and father, Mary and Joseph. This was something they did every spring (see Luke 2:40—49).

Jewish families still celebrate Passover today. They spend this holiday remembering how their Hebrew ancestors, known as the children of Israel, escaped from slavery in Egypt thousands of years ago. The Hebrews had to make bricks from straw for the Pharaoh (another name for king) who ruled the country, and that was hot, hard work. More than anything, the Hebrews wanted to be free. And a man named Moses was chosen by God to lead them out of slavery. Moses was really a hero for being brave enough to demand that Pharaoh let the Hebrew people go.

Because the children of Israel had to leave in a hurry, they didn't have enough time to let their bread rise and get puffy like bread usually is. Today people eat flat matzo (bread without yeast) during Passover to remember that time. If you have Jewish neighbors or friends, you've probably heard of matzo balls, which are sometimes dropped in soup. Long ago, a Passover meal would consist of roasted lamb, fruit, unleavened (matzo-style) bread, and bitter herbs (to remind them of the bitterness of slavery). Today, a meal might include things grandma used to make—chicken soup, a firm noodle or potato pudding, a green vegetable (as a reminder that it's springtime), and chocolate cake. The children help roast eggs for the centerpiece.

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