Passover Begins At Sundown
MIAMI (CBS4) - Millions of people of the Jewish faith across South Florida and the nation will beginthe celebration of the Passover holiday at sunset on Monday.
Passover celebrates the Exodus of the Jewish people from slavery in Ancient Egypt more than three thousand years ago.
"As Floridians of the Jewish faith gather with family and friends to observe Passover, it is a time to reflect on the great gift of freedom God has given to every man and woman. This eight-day observance honors the historic emancipation of the Israelites from slavery in ancient Egypt," said Governor Rick Scott in a statement.
The Jewish people escaped slavery in ancient Egypt in the year 1313 BCE. The Exodus was preceded by ten plagues inflicted on Egypt after Pharaoh refused Moses request to set his people free.
When the Jews finally left Egypt, they did so in a hurry and their bread did not have time to rise. In commemoration of that, Jews don't eat any leaven products. Instead they eat Matzah, a cracker-like bread that is made within eighteen minutes-the time it takes for bread to rise.
It is traditional for Jewish families to gather on the first two nights of Passover for a special dinner called a seder. The table is set with the finest china and silverware to reflect the importance of the meal. During this meal, the story of the Exodus from Egypt is retold.
