Passover and Easter: must be a full moon!

Passover Moon: photo by CP

Why do the dates for Passover and Easter change each year?  It's all on account of the moon!

For Jews and Christians alike, it's the moon that determines the dates of the great religious celebrations of Passover and Easter.

Determining the date for PASSOVER
The holiday commemorating the Hebrews' exodus from slavery in Egypt, begins on the evening of the 15th day of Nisan, the seventh month on the Jewish lunar calendar. Passover begins this year on Wednesday evening, April 5.  The Jewish lunar calendar year begins in late September or early October with the celebration of Rosh Hashana.  The new moon marks the beginning of each month with the full moon occurring halfway through the month. The seventh month in a normal Jewish calendar year is the month of Nisan. Passover is celebrated on the 15th day of Nisan at the time of the full moon (this year on Thursday, April 6). 
 
Determining the date for EASTER (in Western Church)
Easter is observed on the first Sunday following the full moon that comes on or after the vernal equinox (March 21). Easter, this year is celebrated on Sunday, April 9.  The Greek Orthodox calculate the date of Easter by a more ancient calendar - but that could change! Easter will be celebrated in the Orthodox Church this year on April 16.)

 

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