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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.

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