Third Day of Pesach

What Is Third Day of Pesach?

The Third Day of Pesach marks the second of the intermediate days of the Jewish Passover festival, known as Chol HaMoed. This day falls after the initial two full festival days (Yom Tov) and before the final two full festival days. It is observed on the 17th day of the Hebrew month of Nisan.

During this period, the prohibition against leavened products (chametz) remains strictly in force, consistent with the entire Passover observance. However, the level of religious restriction on other activities, such as work, is less stringent than on the primary festival days. In Israel, the Third Day of Pesach is recognised as a public holiday, allowing for widespread family activities and leisure.

History and Origins of Third Day of Pesach

The festival of Pesach (Passover) commemorates the liberation of the Israelites from slavery in ancient Egypt, an event detailed in the biblical Book of Exodus. The observance lasts for seven days in Israel and by Reform and some other Jewish communities, and eight days by Orthodox and Conservative Jews in the diaspora. The distinction in duration arises from historical uncertainties regarding the calendar in ancient times, leading to an extra day being added outside of Israel for full certainty of observance.

The concept of Chol HaMoed, or the “intermediate days,” stems from the biblical commandment to observe the entire week-long festival, not merely the first and last days. While the Torah specifies the first and seventh days as full festival days (Yom Tov) with strict prohibitions on work, it also calls for a continuous period of celebration. The Sages later interpreted this to mean that the days in between, while not as restrictive as Yom Tov, still carry a degree of sanctity and should be observed differently from regular weekdays. This interpretation allows for a balance between maintaining the festive atmosphere and enabling necessary activities.

How Third Day of Pesach Is Celebrated

Celebration of the Third Day of Pesach typically involves a continuation of the Passover themes, with an emphasis on family and communal gatherings. The most fundamental observance is the complete avoidance of chametz, meaning no consumption or possession of leavened grain products. Matzah, the unleavened bread, remains the staple food.

Observance in Israel

In Israel, the Third Day of Pesach is designated as a public holiday. This allows many individuals to take time off work and school, fostering an atmosphere of leisure and family time. Many families use this opportunity to travel domestically, visit national parks, or enjoy cultural attractions. Public transport operates, though sometimes on reduced schedules, and many businesses may be closed or operate with limited hours, particularly in more observant areas. Synagogues hold special services that include additional prayers such such as the Musaf (additional service) and Hallel (psalms of praise).

Observance in the Diaspora

Outside of Israel, the Third Day of Pesach is not typically a public holiday. Most individuals attend work or school as usual, although they continue to adhere strictly to the dietary laws of Pesach. Work that is not essential or that involves creative tasks is often avoided by observant individuals, in keeping with the Chol HaMoed status. Synagogues conduct special prayers for Chol HaMoed, including the recitation of Musaf and Hallel, and a special Torah reading is performed. Festive meals are still common, though they may be less elaborate than those on the initial Yom Tov days.

When Is Third Day of Pesach?

The Third Day of Pesach is fixed to the 17th day of the Hebrew month of Nisan. As the Hebrew calendar is lunisolar, its dates vary annually when observed against the Gregorian calendar.

Jewish days traditionally begin at sundown. Therefore, the Third Day of Pesach commences at sundown on the evening corresponding to the 16th of Nisan and concludes at sundown on the evening corresponding to the 17th of Nisan. This holiday typically falls during March or April in the Gregorian calendar.

Third Day of Pesach Key Facts