What Is the Passover in the Bible — Meaning Explained

The Passover, recorded in Exodus 12, is one of the most significant events in the Old Testament. God sent ten plagues on Egypt to free Israel from slavery. The tenth and final plague was the death of every firstborn. God instructed each Israelite family to slaughter a lamb 'without blemish' and apply its blood to their doorposts. 'When I see the blood, I will pass over you, and the plague shall not be upon you' (Exodus 12:13). That night, every Egyptian firstborn died, but Israel was spared. Pharaoh released them, and they left in haste with unleavened bread. God commanded Israel to celebrate the Passover annually as a 'memorial' (Exodus 12:14). The Passover points unmistakably to Christ. Paul declares, 'Christ our passover is sacrificed for us' (1 Corinthians 5:7). Jesus was crucified during Passover week. He is the Lamb without blemish whose blood delivers believers from the judgment of spiritual death. Every element of the Passover finds its fulfillment in Christ.