Passover message from the Rabbi

Sierra Vista Herald ^ | Rabbi Benzion Shemtov

[SandRat]

Every object is created with a purpose and each one is given its own character trait. Specifically, in regards to Passover, there is a particular intention behind many of the foods we eat, when we eat it, how we eat it and, most importantly, why we eat it. For example, we eat bitter herbs to remind us of the bitter days of slavery. And, when we drink the four cups of wine, we recline to demonstrate the freedom after the exodus and our ability to sit like kings.

Throughout Passover, we refrain from eating Chametz means leavened grain — any food or drink that contains even a trace of wheat, barley, rye, oats, spelt or their derivatives, and which wasn’t guarded from leavening or rising.

Our sages explain that chametz is symbolic of haughtiness and egotism. These traits are so harmful that they are at the root of all negative traits. This is one of the reasons why many spend hours and hours getting rid of even the minutest bit of chametz — for these negative traits must be completely nullified. We are required to rid ourselves of the inflated ego within us and our past behaviors. Once this is done, we make way for the blessings that will surely play the beautiful role they are meant to play.

Instead of Chametz, we eat Matzah — flat unleavened bread — which was never given a chance to rise. The message of the Matzah is the need for self-nullification and staying humble. Only by putting our ego aside, can we allow room for G-d to play a role in our lives.

Keeping humble, especially in our times, can be challenging. However, Passover is a reminder to step back and allow G-d’s blessings in. Let us not be our own obstacle and truly allow spirituality to shine within us.

Wishing you and your family a Happy and Kosher Passover.

For more information on Passover, visit Jewishsierravista.com

[SandRat]

Rabbi Benzion Shemtov, the son of Rabbi Yossie and Chanie Shemtov of Chabad of Tucson, grew up in Tucson. He and his wife Chaya have recently established Chabad of Cochise County, based out of Sierra Vista, to provide Jewish and holiday programs and Torah classes for all ages in the area.

[Ciexyz]

The message is a blessing to those of all faiths.

[delchiante]

quote-The message is a blessing to those of all faiths.

It is.

As Paul wrote to the Corinthians 1 Cor5:7-8

Clean out the old leaven so that you may be a new lump, just as you are [in fact] unleavened. For Christ our Passover also has been sacrificed. 8Therefore let us celebrate the feast, not with old leaven, nor with the leaven of malice and wickedness, but with the unleavened bread of sincerity and truth.

All faiths can know Christ died for our sins,as the Passover Lamb, in accordance with the scriptures.
And His Resurrection is commemorated tomorrow with the Feast of First Fruits, in accordance with the scriptures.

Which is why Paul, in the same letter, called Him the first fruits of those who have fallen asleep.
1 Corinthians 15:20

The El of Israel provided the Lamb and the Unleavened Bread of Life from Heaven, in the form of His Son, on Passover, about two thousand years ago.

And He rose from the grave on the 3rd day,in accordance with those same scriptures, to be the first fruits of those who have fallen asleep.

When all the faiths grasp that, there will only be one faith. With one Master and one baptism. (Ephesians 4:5)

For His Glory!