Leviticus 23:5

In the fourteenth day of the first month at even is the Lord’s passover.

Leviticus 23:5 (KJV)

Context

Leviticus is part of the Torah, the first five books of the Bible, also called the Pentateuch. Moses wrote these books under God’s direction. Leviticus 23 records the appointed feasts of the Lord, which He commanded Israel to observe as holy convocations. This verse fixes the exact date of the Passover: the fourteenth day of the first month, at even.

The first month is Nisan, or Abib. It was the month when Israel came out of Egypt, so God made it the beginning of their religious year. The phrase “at even” means between sunset and full darkness, often called twilight. This precise timing shows that God cares about the details of worship.

Meaning

The Passover remembered Israel’s deliverance from slavery in Egypt. On that night, the blood of a lamb, sprinkled on the doorposts, was a sign for the Lord to pass over the houses of His people and spare their firstborns from the final plague. This event marked the start of their journey to the Promised Land.

The verse calls it “the LORD’s passover.” It is not merely a human tradition or a national festival. It belongs to God, and He appointed it for His glory and for the good of His people. The fixed date emphasizes obedience to God’s specific instructions.

Biblical connections

The same date is repeated in Numbers 28:16, confirming the importance of this observance. The Passover lamb is a clear picture of Jesus Christ, the Lamb of God. His sacrificial death delivers believers from the bondage of sin, just as the lamb’s blood spared Israel. The timing at the beginning of the religious year also points to a new beginning through redemption.

Application

Although the Passover was a specific observance for Israel under the Old Covenant, it still teaches us today. We can learn from their obedience, faith, and trust in God’s deliverance. The Passover reminds us of God’s faithfulness, His power to save, and His desire to set His people free.

As Christians, we are redeemed by the blood of Christ, just as Israel was spared by the blood of the lamb. This truth calls us to live in gratitude and to remember that our freedom from sin was purchased at a great cost. We can also trust that God keeps His promises, even when we cannot see the full outcome.

Reflection

Take time to consider the cost of your redemption. The Passover points to the cross, where Jesus gave His life as the perfect sacrifice. Because of His death and resurrection, we have forgiveness and new life. Let this verse lead you to thank God for His deliverance and to walk in the freedom He has given you.