“Pasch” refers to the Passover, a significant Jewish feast commemorating the Israelites’ liberation from slavery in Egypt, marked by the sacrifice of a lamb and the blood placed on doorposts (Exodus 12:13). In Christian theology, it signifies Christ as the Paschal Lamb, whose sacrifice brings salvation and eternal life (John 1:29).
Scripture
1 The Lord said to Moses and Aaron in the land of Egypt,
2 “This month shall be for you the beginning of months. It shall be the first month of the year for you.
3 Tell all the congregation of Israel that on the tenth day of this month every man shall take a lamb according to their fathers’ houses, a lamb for a household.
4 And if the household is too small for a lamb, then he and his nearest neighbor shall take according to the number of persons; according to what each can eat you shall make your count for the lamb.
5 Your lamb shall be without blemish, a male a year old.
6 and you shall keep it until the fourteenth day of this month, when the whole assembly of the congregation of Israel shall kill their lambs at twilight.
7 Then they shall take some of the blood and put it on the two doorposts and the lintel of the houses in which they eat it.
8 They shall eat the flesh that night, roasted on the fire; with unleavened bread and bitter herbs they shall eat it.
9 Do not eat any of it raw or boiled in water, but roasted, its head with its legs and its inner parts.
10 And you shall let none of it remain until the morning; anything that remains until the morning you shall burn.
11 In this manner you shall eat it: with your belt fastened, your sandals on your feet, and your staff in your hand. And you shall eat it in haste. It is the Lord’s Passover.
12 For I will pass through the land of Egypt that night, and I will strike all the firstborn in the land of Egypt, both man and beast; and on all the gods of Egypt I will execute judgments: I am the Lord.
13 The blood shall be a sign for you, on the houses where you are. And when I see the blood, I will pass over you, and no plague will befall you to destroy you when I strike the land of Egypt.
14 “This day shall be for you a memorial day, and you shall keep it as a feast to the Lord; throughout your generations, as a statute forever, you shall keep it as a feast.”
15 Seven days you shall eat unleavened bread. On the first day you shall remove leaven out of your houses, for if anyone eats what is leavened, from the first day until the seventh day, that person shall be cut off from Israel.
16 On the first day you shall hold a holy assembly, and on the seventh day a holy assembly. No work shall be done on those days. But what everyone needs to eat, that alone may be prepared by you.
17 And you shall observe the Feast of Unleavened Bread, for on this very day I brought your hosts out of the land of Egypt. Therefore you shall observe this day, throughout your generations, as a statute forever.
18 In the first month, from the fourteenth day of the month at evening, you shall eat unleavened bread until the twenty-first day of the month at evening.
19 For seven days no leaven is to be found in your houses. If anyone eats what is leavened, that person will be cut off from the congregation of Israel, whether he is a sojourner or a native of the land.
20 You shall eat nothing leavened; in all your dwelling places you shall eat unleavened bread.”
21 Then Moses called all the elders of Israel and said to them, “Go and select lambs for yourselves according to your clans, and kill the Passover lamb.
22 Take a bunch of hyssop and dip it in the blood that is in the basin, and touch the lintel and the two doorposts with the blood that is in the basin. None of you shall go out of the door of his house until the morning.
23 For the Lord will pass through to strike the Egyptians, and when he sees the blood on the lintel and on the two doorposts, the Lord will pass over the door and will not allow the destroyer to enter your houses to strike you.
24 You shall observe this rite as a statute for you and for your sons forever.
25 And when you come to the land that the Lord will give you, as he has promised, you shall keep this service.
26 And when your children say to you, ‘What do you mean by this service?’
27 Then you shall say, ‘It is the sacrifice of the Lord’s Passover, for he passed over the houses of the people of Israel in Egypt, when he struck the Egyptians but spared our houses.’” And the people bowed their heads and worshiped.
28 Then the people of Israel went and did so; as the Lord had commanded Moses and Aaron, so they did.
Pasch: Biblical Meaning and Significance
The term “Pasch,” derived from the Hebrew “Pesach,” encapsulates the profound narrative of liberation and deliverance central to the Jewish faith. The celebration of Passover, as outlined in Exodus 12:1-14, highlights God’s deliverance of the Israelites from captivity in Egypt, culminating in the pivotal moment when the Angel of Death “passed over” the homes marked by the blood of the sacrificed lamb. This act not only signified physical salvation but also established a critical ritual in Jewish tradition, underscoring themes of faith, obedience, and divine mercy. The significance of this event is echoed in Deuteronomy 16:1-2, which commands the observance of Passover as a perpetual reminder of God’s faithfulness and power.
In Christian theology, the concept of Pasch gains a transformative meaning through the lens of Jesus Christ, who is identified as the Paschal Lamb in John 1:29, where John the Baptist declares, “Behold the Lamb of God, who takes away the sin of the world!” This connection transforms the narrative of Passover into a broader salvific framework; Christ’s sacrifice leads to the ultimate deliverance from sin and death, paralleling the liberation of the Israelites from physical bondage. Additionally, 1 Corinthians 5:7 reinforces this understanding, stating, “For Christ, our Passover lamb, has been sacrificed.” Therefore, Pasch reflects not only a historical moment of liberation but also a theological cornerstone that emphasizes forthnight themes of redemption, sacrificial love, and the hope of eternal life for believers, binding Jewish roots with Christian faith in the overarching narrative of salvation.
Beyond the immediate scriptural references to the traditional observance and significance of Passover, the concept of Pasch resonates throughout various biblical writings, enriching its theological implications and cultural practices. In the prophetic literature, for example, the themes surrounding the Paschal lamb extend into eschatological visions, wherein the promise of deliverance transcends historical events. The connection of Passover to future salvation is reflected in texts where a new covenant is prophesied, indicating a time when God’s intervention will lead to a more universal redemption. This anticipation not only highlights the continuity of God’s faithfulness but also prepares the way for the anticipation of a reconciled creation, marking the Pasch as a reference point for understanding divine promises that extend beyond mere temporal events.
Furthermore, the significance of Pasch is mirrored in the New Testament writings outside of direct references to the Last Supper or the crucifixion. In the Book of Revelation, the imagery of the Lamb, reminiscent of the Paschal lamb, is pivotal in the portrayal of Christ’s ultimate victory over evil and death. Lines emphasizing the triumph of the Lamb, who was slain yet reigns, encapsulate the essence of Pasch as an ongoing narrative of hope and conquest. The communal aspects of the Paschal observance, particularly as they relate to shared meals and gatherings, are echoed in the New Testament’s emphasis on Christian fellowship and the Eucharist, drawing a direct line from the Jewish Passover to the communal acts of remembrance that define Christian identity. This inherent connection between the two traditions demonstrates the evolved yet rooted significance of Pasch as not only a moment of liberation but a continual motif of hope, community, and divine promise that resonates through the ages.
The Concept of Redemption
The term “Pasch,” derived from the Hebrew “Pesach,” signifies the Passover, which is fundamentally about redemption. In the biblical narrative, the Passover represents God’s deliverance of the Israelites from slavery in Egypt. This act of liberation is not merely a historical event but serves as a profound symbol of spiritual redemption. It illustrates the overarching theme of salvation that permeates the Bible, emphasizing God’s desire to free humanity from sin and bondage.
The Sacrificial System
Another significant aspect of Pasch is its connection to the sacrificial system established in the Old Testament. The Passover lamb, which was sacrificed and whose blood marked the doorposts of the Israelites, symbolizes the concept of atonement. This sacrificial act foreshadows the ultimate sacrifice of Jesus Christ, who is often referred to as the “Lamb of God.” The Pasch thus encapsulates the idea that through sacrifice, there is a pathway to reconciliation with God, highlighting the importance of sacrifice in the relationship between humanity and the divine.
The Celebration of Covenant
Pasch also signifies the celebration of covenant between God and His people. The observance of Passover is a reminder of God’s faithfulness to His promises and His commitment to His covenant with Israel. This annual celebration serves as a communal act of remembrance, reinforcing the identity of the people as chosen and beloved by God. It emphasizes the importance of community in faith, as the rituals surrounding Pasch foster a sense of belonging and continuity among believers, linking past deliverance to present faithfulness.
How to Embrace Faith Through Liberation and Remembrance
Embracing faith through liberation and remembrance is a transformative journey that invites us to reflect on our past while stepping boldly into the future. As we remember the stories of our faith—those of liberation from oppression, like the Israelites’ exodus from Egypt or Christ’s resurrection—we find strength and inspiration to break free from the chains that bind us today, whether they be fear, doubt, or societal pressures. This act of remembrance is not just a passive reflection; it calls us to actively engage with our faith, allowing it to liberate us from the burdens we carry. By immersing ourselves in prayer, scripture, and community, we can cultivate a deeper understanding of God’s promises and the freedom that comes from trusting in His plan. So, let us honor our past, celebrate our freedom, and move forward with a heart full of faith, ready to embrace the abundant life that God has in store for us.
Bible References to Pasch Meaning and Significance:
Leviticus 23:4-8: 4 “These are the appointed feasts of the Lord, the holy convocations, which you shall proclaim at the time appointed for them.
5 In the first month, on the fourteenth day of the month at twilight, is the Lord’s Passover.
6 And on the fifteenth day of the same month is the Feast of Unleavened Bread to the Lord; for seven days you shall eat unleavened bread.
7 On the first day you shall have a holy convocation; you shall not do any ordinary work.
8 But you shall present a food offering to the Lord for seven days. On the seventh day is a holy convocation; you shall not do any ordinary work.”
Deuteronomy 16:1-8: 1 “Observe the month of Abib and keep the Passover to the Lord your God, for in the month of Abib the Lord your God brought you out of Egypt by night.
2 You shall offer the Passover sacrifice to the Lord your God, from the flock or the herd, at the place that the Lord will choose, to make his name dwell there.
3 You shall eat no leavened bread with it. Seven days you shall eat it with unleavened bread, the bread of affliction—for you came out of the land of Egypt in haste—that all the days of your life you may remember the day when you came out of the land of Egypt.
4 And no leaven shall be seen with you in all your territory for seven days, and none of the flesh that you sacrifice on the evening of the first day shall remain all night until morning.
5 You may not offer the Passover sacrifice within any of your towns that the Lord your God is giving you,
6 but at the place that the Lord your God will choose, to make his name dwell in it, there you shall offer the Passover sacrifice, in the evening at sunset, at the time you came out of Egypt.
7 You shall cook it and eat it at the place that the Lord your God will choose. And in the morning you shall turn and go to your tents.
8 Six days you shall eat unleavened bread, and on the seventh day there shall be a solemn assembly to the Lord your God. You shall do no work on it.
Matthew 26:17-30: 17 Now on the first day of Unleavened Bread the disciples came to Jesus, saying, “Where will you have us prepare for you to eat the Passover?”
18 He said, “Go into the city to a certain man and say to him, ‘The Teacher says, My time is at hand. I will keep the Passover at your house with my disciples.’”
19 So the disciples did as Jesus had directed them, and they prepared the Passover.
20 When it was evening, he reclined at table with the twelve.
21 And as they were eating, he said, “Truly, I say to you, one of you will betray me.”
22 And they were very sorrowful and began to say to him one after another, “Is it I, Lord?”
23 He answered, “He who has dipped his hand in the dish with me will betray me.
24 The Son of Man goes as it is written of him, but woe to that man by whom the Son of Man is betrayed! It would have been better for that man if he had not been born.
25 Judas, who would betray him, answered, “Is it I, Rabbi?” He said to him, “You have said so.”
26 Now as they were eating, Jesus took bread, and after blessing it broke it and gave it to the disciples, and said, “Take, eat; this is my body.”
27 And he took a cup, and when he had given thanks he gave it to them, saying, “Drink of it, all of you,
28 for this is my blood of the covenant, which is poured out for many for the forgiveness of sins.
29 I tell you I will not drink again of this fruit of the vine until that day when I drink it new with you in my Father’s kingdom.”
30 And when they had sung a hymn, they went out to the Mount of Olives.
Mark 14:12-26: 12 And on the first day of Unleavened Bread, when they sacrificed the Passover lamb, his disciples said to him, “Where will you have us go and prepare for you to eat the Passover?”
13 And he sent two of his disciples and said to them, “Go into the city, and a man carrying a jar of water will meet you. Follow him,
14 And wherever he enters, say to the master of the house, ‘The Teacher says, Where is my guest room, where I may eat the Passover with my disciples?’
15 And he will show you a large upper room furnished and ready; there prepare for us.”
16 And the disciples set out and went to the city and found it just as he had told them, and they prepared the Passover.
17 And when it was evening, he came with the twelve.
18 And as they were reclining at table and eating, Jesus said, “Truly, I say to you, one of you will betray me, one who is eating with me.”
19 They began to be sorrowful and to say to him one after another, “Is it I?”
20 He said to them, “It is one of the twelve, one who is dipping bread into the dish with me.
21 For the Son of Man goes as it is written of him, but woe to that man by whom the Son of Man is betrayed! It would have been better for that man if he had not been born.
22 And as they were eating, he took bread, and after blessing it broke it and gave it to them, and said, “Take; this is my body.”
23 And he took a cup, and when he had given thanks he gave it to them, and they all drank of it.
24 And he said to them, “This is my blood of the covenant, which is poured out for many.
25 Truly, I say to you, I will not drink again of the fruit of the vine until that day when I drink it new in the kingdom of God.”
26 And when they had sung a hymn, they went out to the Mount of Olives.
Luke 22:7-20: 7 Then came the day of Unleavened Bread, on which the Passover lamb had to be sacrificed.
8 Jesus sent Peter and John, saying, “Go and prepare the Passover for us, that we may eat it.”
9 And they said to him, “Where will you have us prepare it?”
10 And he said to them, “Behold, when you have entered the city, a man carrying a jar of water will meet you. Follow him into the house that he enters.
11 and tell the master of the house, ‘The Teacher says to you, Where is the guest room, where I may eat the Passover with my disciples?’
12 And he will show you a large upper room furnished; prepare it there.”
13 And they went and found it just as he had told them, and they prepared the Passover.
14 And when the hour came, he reclined at table, and the apostles with him.
15 And he said to them, “I have earnestly desired to eat this Passover with you before I suffer.
16 for I tell you I will not eat it until it is fulfilled in the kingdom of God.”
17 And he took a cup, and when he had given thanks he said, “Take this, and divide it among yourselves.
18 for I tell you that from now on I will not drink of the fruit of the vine until the kingdom of God comes.”
19 And he took bread, and when he had given thanks, he broke it and gave it to them, saying, “This is my body, which is given for you. Do this in remembrance of me.”
20 And likewise the cup after they had eaten, saying, “This cup that is poured out for you is the new covenant in my blood.
John 13:1-17: 1 Now before the Feast of the Passover, when Jesus knew that his hour had come to depart out of this world to the Father, having loved his own who were in the world, he loved them to the end.
2 During supper, when the devil had already put it into the heart of Judas Iscariot, Simon’s son, to betray him,
3 Jesus, knowing that the Father had given all things into his hands, and that he had come from God and was going back to God,
4 rose from supper. He laid aside his outer garments, and taking a towel, tied it around his waist.
5 Then he poured water into a basin and began to wash the disciples’ feet and to wipe them with the towel that was wrapped around him.
6 He came to Simon Peter, who said to him, “Lord, do you wash my feet?”
7 Jesus answered him, “What I am doing you do not understand now, but afterward you will understand.”
8 Peter said to him, “You shall never wash my feet.” Jesus answered him, “If I do not wash you, you have no share with me.”
9 Simon Peter said to him, “Lord, not my feet only but also my hands and my head!”
10 Jesus said to him, “The one who has bathed does not need to wash, except for his feet, but is completely clean. And you are clean, but not every one of you.”
11 For he knew who was to betray him; that was why he said, “Not all of you are clean.”
12 When he had washed their feet and put on his outer garments and resumed his place, he said to them, “Do you understand what I have done to you?
13 You call me Teacher and Lord, and you are right, for so I am.
14 If I then, your Lord and Teacher, have washed your feet, you also ought to wash one another’s feet.
15 For I have given you an example, that you also should do just as I have done to you.
16 Truly, truly, I say to you, a servant is not greater than his master, nor is a messenger greater than the one who sent him.
17 If you know these things, blessed are you if you do them.
1 Corinthians 5:6-8: 6 Your boasting is not good. Do you not know that a little leaven leavens the whole lump?
7 Cleanse out the old leaven that you may be a new lump, as you really are unleavened. For Christ, our Passover lamb, has been sacrificed.
8 Let us therefore celebrate the festival, not with the old leaven, the leaven of malice and evil, but with the unleavened bread of sincerity and truth.
1 Corinthians 11:23-26: 23 For I received from the Lord what I also delivered to you, that the Lord Jesus on the night when he was betrayed took bread,
24 and when he had given thanks, he broke it, and said, “This is my body, which is for you. Do this in remembrance of me.”
25 In the same way also he took the cup, after supper, saying, “This cup is the new covenant in my blood. Do this, as often as you drink it, in remembrance of me.”
26 For as often as you eat this bread and drink the cup, you proclaim the Lord’s death until he comes.
Hebrews 11:24-28: 24 By faith Moses, when he was grown up, refused to be called the son of Pharaoh’s daughter,
25 choosing rather to be mistreated with the people of God than to enjoy the fleeting pleasures of sin.
26 He considered the reproach of Christ greater wealth than the treasures of Egypt, for he was looking to the reward.
27 By faith he left Egypt, not being afraid of the anger of the king, for he endured as seeing him who is invisible.
By faith he kept the Passover and sprinkled the blood, so that the Destroyer of the firstborn might not touch them.
Reverend Michael Johnson is an experienced Church Minister with a profound expertise in spirituality and guidance. With a serene presence and a compassionate heart, he has faithfully served his congregation for over 20 years, leading them on a spiritual journey towards inner peace and enlightenment. Reverend Johnson’s extensive knowledge of religious philosophies and profound understanding of human nature have made him a trusted confidant and mentor to many, as he seamlessly weaves his profound wisdom into life teachings. Reverend Johnson’s calming demeanor and empathetic nature continue to uplift and heal souls, nurturing a sense of unity and tranquility within his community.