Passover, or Pesach, is one of the cornerstone festivals in Judaism — not just a celebration, but a deeply symbolic journey.
It recalls the liberation of the Israelites from slavery in Egypt, a story that carries resonant themes of freedom, identity and gratitude.
The Meaning Behind “Pesach”
The word Pesach comes from the Hebrew root meaning “to pass over” — referring to how G-d “passed over” the homes of the Israelites during the tenth plague, sparing their firstborns. This act of divine protection is central to why Passover is so called.
Key Observances & Traditions
- Avoiding Chametz: During Passover, Jews refrain from owning or eating chametz — any leavened food made from wheat, barley, rye, oats or spelt that has fermented or “risen.”
- Eating Matzah: Instead of leavened bread, matzah (unleavened bread) is eaten to symbolise how the Israelites left Egypt in haste.
- Seder Meal: On the first (and in the Diaspora, the second) night, families gather for the Seder, a ritual meal filled with meaning: retelling the Exodus, eating symbolic foods, singing, and drinking four cups of wine.
- Storytelling: The Haggadah, a special text, is used during the Seder to guide participants through the story, the rituals, and the traditions.
- Symbolic Foods: During the Seder, foods like bitter herbs (maror), salt-water, charoset, matzah and more are eaten, each representing different elements of suffering, hope, and deliverance.
Why Passover Matters Beyond History
Passover isn't just about looking back — it's about feeling: participation in the Seder is meant to make everyone feel as though they themselves were freed from Egypt.
This emotional engagement encourages empathy, remembrance, and a renewed appreciation for freedom.
Moreover, the festival teaches powerful moral lessons: about gratitude, humility, collective memory, and the responsibility that comes with freedom.
Practical Experience: What Happens at a Seder
- It often starts late. The Seder usually begins after nightfall, once people have returned from prayers.
- Be prepared for a set structure. The Seder follows 15 traditional “steps” — from washing hands to reciting blessings, telling the Exodus story, eating rituals, and finishing with songs.
- Participation is encouraged. People read from the Haggadah, ask questions, and even recline (on the first two cups of wine) to symbolise freedom.
- Plan for a long evening. The reading, discussion, and rituals can make the Seder a significant part of the night — it’s not just a quick dinner.
Why Celebrating Passover at a Hotel Might Be Special
Many families choose to mark Passover away from home — not just to escape the work of kashering the kitchen, but to truly relax, reflect and be together. Staying somewhere with a warm, kosher-friendly environment can make a huge difference.
- Full kosher dining (including for Passover)
- An inviting, peaceful setting for Shabbat and holiday gatherings
- Shared or private space for family Seders, with all the amenities you need
- A serene seaside setting ideal for reflection and rest