Topical Bible: Month: Abib (April): The Jewish Calendar Began With

◄ Month: Abib (April): The Jewish Calendar Began With ►

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Introduction

Abib, also known as Nisan, is the first month of the Jewish religious calendar. It holds significant importance in the biblical narrative, marking the beginning of the year for the Israelites as ordained by God. This month is pivotal in the history of Israel, as it is associated with the Exodus from Egypt and the establishment of key religious observances.

Biblical Significance

The month of Abib is first mentioned in the context of the Exodus, when God instructed Moses and Aaron regarding the Passover. In Exodus 12:2 , God declares, "This month is to be the beginning of months for you; it is the first month of your year." This commandment established Abib as the starting point of the Jewish religious calendar, underscoring its foundational role in Israelite identity and worship.

Passover and the Exodus

Abib is most notably associated with the Passover, a central event in Jewish history and theology. The Passover commemorates the deliverance of the Israelites from slavery in Egypt, as described in Exodus 12. During this month, God executed the final plague, the death of the firstborn, which led to Pharaoh releasing the Israelites. The Passover meal, including the sacrifice of a lamb and the marking of doorposts with its blood, was instituted as a perpetual ordinance for the Israelites (Exodus 12:14).

Agricultural Context

The name "Abib" itself is derived from the Hebrew word for "ear of grain," reflecting the agricultural cycle in the land of Israel. It corresponds to the time of year when barley, the first grain to ripen, is harvested. This agricultural aspect is intertwined with the religious observances, as the Feast of Unleavened Bread, which begins on the 15th of Abib, coincides with the barley harvest (Leviticus 23:6-14).

Transition to Nisan

Following the Babylonian exile, the name "Nisan" became more commonly used, as seen in later biblical texts such as Nehemiah 2:1 and Esther 3:7. Despite the change in nomenclature, the significance of the month as the beginning of the religious year and its association with the Passover remained unchanged.

Conclusion

Abib, or Nisan, is a month of profound importance in the biblical tradition. It marks the commencement of the Jewish religious calendar and is inextricably linked to the themes of liberation, covenant, and divine providence. The observances and events associated with Abib continue to hold deep spiritual significance for the Jewish people and serve as a reminder of God's deliverance and faithfulness.

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Exodus 12:2
This month shall be to you the beginning of months: it shall be the first month of the year to you.
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Exodus 13:4
This day came you out in the month Abib.
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Deuteronomy 16:1
Observe the month of Abib, and keep the passover to the LORD your God: for in the month of Abib the LORD your God brought you forth out of Egypt by night.
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