Topical Bible: Passover: Strangers Authorized to Celebrate

◄ Passover: Strangers Authorized to Celebrate ►

Topical Encyclopedia

The Passover, known as Pesach in Hebrew, is one of the most significant feasts in the Jewish calendar, commemorating the Israelites' deliverance from slavery in Egypt. The observance of Passover is detailed in the Old Testament, particularly in the books of Exodus, Leviticus, Numbers, and Deuteronomy. A notable aspect of the Passover celebration is the inclusion of "strangers" or non-Israelites who wish to participate in the feast, provided they adhere to certain stipulations.

Biblical Foundation

The institution of Passover is found in Exodus 12, where God commands Moses and Aaron regarding the observance of this feast. The instructions include the sacrifice of a lamb, the application of its blood on the doorposts, and the consumption of the lamb with unleavened bread and bitter herbs. The event marks the Lord's passing over the houses of the Israelites during the final plague on Egypt, sparing their firstborn while striking down the firstborn of the Egyptians.

Inclusion of Strangers

The inclusion of strangers in the Passover celebration is explicitly addressed in Exodus 12:48-49 : "If a foreigner resides with you and wants to celebrate the LORD’s Passover, all the males in his household must be circumcised; then he may take part, and he shall be like a native of the land. But no uncircumcised man may eat of it. The same law shall apply to both the native and the foreigner who resides among you."

This passage indicates that while the Passover is primarily a covenantal meal for the Israelites, provision is made for non-Israelites to join in the celebration, provided they undergo circumcision. This requirement signifies their full integration into the covenant community, acknowledging the God of Israel as their own.

Theological Implications

The authorization for strangers to celebrate Passover underscores the inclusive nature of God's covenant. It reflects the broader biblical theme of God's desire for all nations to come to know Him. The requirement of circumcision for participation signifies a commitment to the covenant and a willingness to be set apart for God, aligning with the broader biblical narrative of holiness and dedication to the Lord.

Historical Context

In the ancient Near Eastern context, the inclusion of foreigners in religious observances was not common. The Israelites' openness to allowing strangers to partake in Passover, contingent upon their acceptance of the covenant sign, highlights the distinctiveness of Israel's faith and the universal scope of God's redemptive plan.

New Testament Reflection

The New Testament continues the theme of inclusion, as seen in the ministry of Jesus and the early church. The Apostle Paul, in his letters, emphasizes that in Christ, there is neither Jew nor Gentile, for all are one in Him (Galatians 3:28). The Passover, as a precursor to the Lord's Supper, symbolizes the ultimate deliverance from sin through Christ's sacrifice, available to all who believe, regardless of ethnic or cultural background.

Conclusion

The authorization for strangers to celebrate Passover, as outlined in the Old Testament, reveals the inclusive nature of God's covenant and foreshadows the universal offer of salvation through Jesus Christ. This provision for non-Israelites to join in the Passover, upon meeting certain conditions, highlights the openness of God's redemptive plan and the call for all people to enter into a relationship with Him.

Nave's Topical Index

Exodus 12:48,49
And when a stranger shall sojourn with you, and will keep the passover to the LORD, let all his males be circumcised, and then let him come near and keep it; and he shall be as one that is born in the land: for no uncircumcised person shall eat thereof.
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Numbers 9:14
And if a stranger shall sojourn among you, and will keep the passover to the LORD; according to the ordinance of the passover, and according to the manner thereof, so shall he do: you shall have one ordinance, both for the stranger, and for him that was born in the land.
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