When Is the Biblical Time to Observe Passover?

By Rev. Daniel Matthews, M.Div.

April 8, 2025 at 10:36 AM

According to Scripture, the Passover should be observed at twilight on the 14th day of the first month (Nisan/Abib). The Hebrew phrase for "twilight" is bein ha'arbayim, meaning "between the evenings" - specifically the period between sunset and complete darkness at the start of the 14th.

Jesus observed the Passover at the beginning of the 14th, the evening before His crucifixion, as recorded in the Gospels (Matthew 26:18-19; Mark 14:13-14; Luke 22:8-9).

Sunset over Jerusalem cityscape

Sunset over Jerusalem cityscape

Key points about Passover timing:

  • God commanded Israel to kill the Passover lamb at twilight on the 14th, mark doorposts with its blood, and eat it that same night (Exodus 12:5-8)
  • The timing had to allow for all rituals to be completed within the 14th day
  • "Between the evenings" refers to dusk - the short period between sunset and darkness
  • Modern Jewish tradition observes Passover on the 15th, following a different interpretation that places the sacrifice in the afternoon of the 14th

Blood on Passover doorpost

Blood on Passover doorpost

Biblical evidence supporting beginning-of-14th observance:

  • God provided quail "at twilight" (bein ha'arbayim) which arrived "at evening" (sunset) - Exodus 16:12-13
  • Jesus and disciples intentionally prepared Passover at the beginning of the 14th
  • Paul confirmed this timing, noting Jesus took Passover "on the same night in which He was betrayed" (1 Corinthians 11:23)

Sunset over tranquil water at dusk

Sunset over tranquil water at dusk

Christians should observe Passover at the beginning of the 14th of Nisan, following Christ's example and the original biblical command. This timing allows for proper observance of all elements within the designated day and aligns with Jesus being our Passover sacrifice (1 Corinthians 5:7).

[Original image credits and author information retained as in source]

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