Topical Encyclopedia Biblical References:The consumption of bitter herbs is a significant element in the observance of the Passover meal, as commanded in the Old Testament. The primary scriptural reference is found in Exodus 12:8, which states, "They are to eat the meat that night, roasted over the fire, along with unleavened bread and bitter herbs." This directive was given to the Israelites as part of the instructions for the first Passover, marking their deliverance from slavery in Egypt. Symbolism and Significance: Bitter herbs, known in Hebrew as "maror," serve as a poignant symbol of the bitterness and harshness of the Israelites' bondage in Egypt. The consumption of these herbs during the Passover meal is a tangible reminder of the suffering endured by the Israelites and the subsequent deliverance by the hand of God. The bitterness of the herbs contrasts with the sweetness of freedom, underscoring the transformative power of God's salvation. Traditional Use: In Jewish tradition, various plants have been used as bitter herbs, including horseradish, romaine lettuce, and endive. The specific choice of herb may vary, but the emphasis remains on the bitterness as a sensory experience that connects participants to the historical and spiritual narrative of the Exodus. New Testament Context: While the New Testament does not explicitly mention the use of bitter herbs in the context of the Last Supper, it is understood that Jesus and His disciples observed the Passover meal according to Jewish customs of the time. This meal, which Jesus transformed into the Lord's Supper, would have included the traditional elements, including bitter herbs, as a part of the Passover Seder. Theological Reflection: For Christians, the bitter herbs can also serve as a reflection on the bitterness of sin and the bondage it brings. Just as the Israelites were delivered from physical slavery, believers are delivered from spiritual slavery through the sacrifice of Jesus Christ, the Lamb of God. The Passover meal, with its elements of bitter herbs, unleavened bread, and lamb, foreshadows the redemptive work of Christ, who provides ultimate deliverance from sin and death. Contemporary Observance: In modern Christian practice, particularly among those who observe a Christian Seder, the inclusion of bitter herbs can serve as a meaningful reminder of the shared heritage with the Jewish faith and the fulfillment of the Passover in Christ. It is an opportunity to reflect on the cost of redemption and the sweetness of salvation, as well as to remember the historical roots of the Christian faith. Nave's Topical Index Exodus 12:8And they shall eat the flesh in that night, roast with fire, and unleavened bread; and with bitter herbs they shall eat it. Nave's Topical Index Numbers 9:11 Library The Paschal Supper - the Institution of the Lord's Supper. Resources Who was Naomi in the Bible? | GotQuestions.orgWhat is the Haggadah / Aggadah? | GotQuestions.org How do the elements of the Passover Seder point to Christ? | GotQuestions.org Bitter: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
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