Numbers 28:16
And in the fourteenth day of the first month is the passover of the LORD.
Original Language Analysis
הָֽרִאשׁ֗וֹן
of the first
H7223
הָֽרִאשׁ֗וֹן
of the first
Strong's:
H7223
Word #:
2 of 8
first, in place, time or rank (as adjective or noun)
עָשָׂ֛ר
H6240
עָשָׂ֛ר
Strong's:
H6240
Word #:
4 of 8
ten (only in combination), i.e., -teen; also (ordinal) -teenth
י֖וֹם
day
H3117
י֖וֹם
day
Strong's:
H3117
Word #:
5 of 8
a day (as the warm hours), whether literal (from sunrise to sunset, or from one sunset to the next), or figurative (a space of time defined by an asso
Historical Context
Unleavened bread commemorated Israel's hasty Exodus departure, leaving no time for dough to rise (Exodus 12:39). The feast immediately followed Passover, creating an eight-day celebration (combining both feasts' observances). Leaven's removal from households required thorough cleansing, symbolizing sin's comprehensive purging. Paul later applied this imagery to Christian living, calling believers to purge out old leaven of malice and wickedness (1 Corinthians 5:7-8).
Questions for Reflection
- What 'leaven' (sin) requires purging from your life to live consistently with your redemption in Christ?
- How can extended focus on spiritual themes (not just brief moments) deepen transformation?
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Analysis & Commentary
The Feast of Unleavened Bread's seven-day duration ('on the fifteenth day of this month is the feast: seven days shall unleavened bread be eaten') required extended focus on redemption themes. Leaven's removal symbolized sin's purging, teaching that salvation necessitates holiness. The week-long feast prevented casual observance, requiring sustained attention to spiritual realities. The number seven (completion) emphasized thorough dedication to remembering God's deliverance and pursuing corresponding purity.