Nisan, also known as Abib, is the first month of the Hebrew religious calendar and the seventh month of the civil calendar. This month holds significant importance in the biblical narrative, marking the beginning of the Israelites' year and the commemoration of pivotal events in their history.

Biblical References and Significance

The month of Nisan is first mentioned in the context of the Exodus from Egypt. In Exodus 12:2 , God instructs Moses and Aaron, "This month is to be the beginning of months for you; it is the first month of your year." This declaration establishes Nisan as the starting point of the religious calendar, underscoring its foundational role in the life of the Israelite community.

Nisan is also referred to as Abib, a term that signifies the stage of barley ripening, indicating the agricultural context of the month. In Exodus 13:4 , it is written, "Today, in the month of Abib, you are leaving." This passage highlights the connection between the agricultural cycle and the Israelites' liberation from bondage, as they departed Egypt during this time.

Feasts and Observances

The most notable event in the month of Nisan is the Passover, which commemorates the deliverance of the Israelites from Egyptian slavery. The Passover lamb is sacrificed on the 14th day of Nisan, as detailed in Exodus 12:6 : "You must keep it until the fourteenth day of the month, when the whole assembly of the congregation of Israel will slaughter the animals at twilight." This event is followed by the Feast of Unleavened Bread, lasting from the 15th to the 21st of Nisan, as described in Exodus 12:15-20.

The significance of Nisan extends into the New Testament, where it is associated with the crucifixion and resurrection of Jesus Christ. The Last Supper, which took place during Passover, and the subsequent events of the Passion Week are rooted in the observances of this month.

Historical and Cultural Context

Nisan's dual role as both a religious and agricultural marker reflects the integration of spiritual and daily life in ancient Israel. The alignment of the religious calendar with the agricultural cycle ensured that the Israelites' worship and community life were in harmony with the rhythms of creation.

In post-exilic times, the name "Nisan" became more prevalent, as seen in the books of Nehemiah and Esther. Nehemiah 2:1 states, "In the month of Nisan, in the twentieth year of King Artaxerxes, when wine was brought before him, I took the wine and gave it to the king." This usage indicates the influence of the Babylonian calendar system, which the Israelites encountered during their exile.

Conclusion

The month of Nisan, or Abib, holds a place of profound importance in the biblical narrative, symbolizing new beginnings, deliverance, and the faithfulness of God. Its observances and historical context continue to resonate with believers, serving as a reminder of God's redemptive work throughout history.Exodus 13:4
This day came you out in the month Abib.
Torrey's Topical Textbook

Nehemiah 2:1
And it came to pass in the month Nisan, in the twentieth year of Artaxerxes the king, that wine was before him: and I took up the wine, and gave it to the king. Now I had not been beforetime sad in his presence.
Torrey's Topical Textbook

The Iranian Conquest
... Most of them received no special names, but many ... are ended, at the expiration of
twelve thousand years ... another rapidly"Eknibaal ruled two months, Khelbes ten ...
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