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The Last Day of Passover, known as Acharon Shel Pesach in Hebrew, is observed by Jewish communities in Australia, as it is around the world. This holiday marks the end of the eight-day festival of Passover (Pesach), which commemorates the Exodus of the Israelites from slavery in ancient Egypt.
Passover begins on the 15th day of the Hebrew month of Nissan and lasts for eight days in diaspora communities, including Australia. The history centers on the biblical account where God delivered the Israelites from bondage under Pharaoh's rule through a series of miraculous events, culminating in their escape across the parted Red Sea.
During Passover, observers refrain from eating leavened bread (chametz) to remember how their ancestors left Egypt so hastily there was no time for their bread to rise. Instead, matzah, an unleavened flatbread, is consumed.
On the last day of Passover:
Synagogue Services: Jewish Australians attend special synagogue services that include prayers such as Yizkor (memorial prayers for deceased relatives) and recitations from a liturgical poem known as "The Song of Songs."
Holiday Meals: Families and friends often gather for festive meals known as Seudat Moshiach or "Feast of the Messiah." It's traditional to eat a piece of matzah called Afikoman during this meal.
Reflecting on Freedom: The day is also spent reflecting on themes of freedom and redemption that are central to both historical and contemporary experiences.
Following nightfall, after sundown marks the end of Passover, many return to eating chametz that has been sold over Passover or bought new after the holiday ends.
