Pesach Sheni 2023: Date, History, Facts about Jewish People

Pesach Sheni is celebrated on 14 Iyar, one month after 14 Nisan, the day before Passover when the paschal lamb was chosen to be sacrificed. This year, it occurs on May 4. It provides a second opportunity for those who missed the first Passover celebration.

The background of Pesach Sheni

Pesach Sheni is comparable to a second Passover celebration. It is anchored in the Bible. God instructed the Israelites to recall the night of Passover, when the angel of death passed by every Jewish home where lamb’s blood had been sprinkled. The people were instructed to observe the Passover feast and to present an offering to God. In accordance with God’s instructions, a broiled lamb was offered as a sacrifice during the first Passover and subsequently the second. It was intended to be consumed with matzah and astringent herbs.

At the time, certain individuals were deemed ritually immoral and therefore ineligible for Passover participation. Some men feared they would forgo the opportunity to be at peace with God. Therefore, they approached Moses and Aaron, who instructed them on what to do. People who were deemed impure or who could not reach Jerusalem (the location of the Passover) were given a “second chance.” On 14 Iyar a month later, they could celebrate Passover.

Since the devastation of the Second Temple, only a symbolic observance of Pesach Sheni remains. People only consume a single portion of matzah, or unleavened bread, to mark the occasion. Contributions are made to organisations that create meaningful memorials for deceased family members, such as hospitals, hospices, synagogues, and charities, in memory and honour of the holiday.

National Renewal Day 2023: Date, History, Facts, Activities

Star Wars Day 2023: Date, History, Activities

Anti-Bullying Day 2023: Date, History, Facts about Online Bullying

5 FACTS ABOUT JEWISH PEOPLE

Jews constitute approximately 2.4% of the adult U.S. population.

The estimated Jewish population in 2020 was approximately 7.5 million.

Jews in the United States are viewed as less religious than mature Americans.

Jews are known to be staunch liberals and Democratic Party supporters.

About 82% of American Jews are very concerned about Israel.

PESACH SHENI DATES

Year	Date	Day
2022	May 14	Saturday
2023	May 4	Thursday
2024	May 21	Tuesday
2025	May 11	Sunday
2026	April 30	Thursday