The last day of Passover (in Hebrew, Acharon Shel Pesach) marks the conclusion of the Passover festival in the Diaspora.
While Passover is seven days in Israel, many Jewish communities outside Israel observe it for eight days.
Why an Eighth Day?
The tradition of an extra day (Yom Tov Sheni) outside Israel comes from ancient practice.
It ensures that Jewish communities far from Jerusalem would correctly observe festival dates, even when the new month was uncertain.
This eighth day carries the same halachic (Jewish law) status as the seventh day.
What Happens on the Last Day
- It’s a festival (Yom Tov) day: many observe rest, prayers, and Torah readings, just as on the main holiday days.
- Many communities read from the Torah passages about the Parting of the Red Sea, remembering the miraculous escape from Egypt.
- Yizkor, the memorial prayer for deceased relatives, is typically recited on this final day in the Diaspora.
- Some stringencies of Passover are relaxed: for instance, soaking matzah in water (which many avoid during Passover) may be permitted.
Spiritual Significance
This day symbolises the final part of redemption — not just the historical Exodus, but a hope for a future, spiritual redemption.
In Hasidic tradition, the eighth day is connected to Mashiach (the Messiah), and some celebrate a “Seudat Mashiach” (Messianic feast) with matzah and wine.
It’s a time of reflection, prayer, and continuity: concluding Passover with both gratitude for freedom and a yearning for future redemption.
Customs & Practical Notes
- Because it’s a full Yom Tov, many people refrain from work in the same way as other festival days.
- The restrictions on chametz remain until the end of the final day in many communities.
- However, some rules are slightly relaxed compared to other days of Passover, reflecting a more “festive but gentle” close to the holiday.
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