Why We Observe the Passover at the Beginning of the 14th Day truthsum.org

The timing of Passover observance has long been debated. Most today observe it at the end of the 14th day of the first month, just as the 15th begins, based on a traditional interpretation of Exodus 12:6. But another perspective—still held by some—places the observance at the beginning of the 14th, right after sunset.

Jesus’ example supports this early observance. He ate the Passover meal with His disciples at the start of the 14th (Luke 22:15), then was crucified later that same day. Meanwhile, John 18:28 shows other Jews hadn’t yet kept the Passover—pointing to a divergent tradition.

The key issue lies in how we interpret the Hebrew phrase ben ha’arbayim (“between the evenings”). We understand it to mean twilight after sunset, not late afternoon. This aligns with how the first Passover unfolded in Exodus 12 and matches the practical logistics of a massive exodus.

While a minority view today, observing Passover at the beginning of the 14th aligns closely with both Scripture and Christ’s example. We keep it simply, quietly, and with reverence—as the 14th begins.

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