Feasts and Festivals in the Bible
The feasts and festivals in the Bible described throughout the Old Testament were not frivolous. They all had specific dates and symbolic reasoning. All the reasonings for the celebrations were linked to showing God gratitude and causing the Israelite’s hearts to focus on what God had done for them and will do for them. The feasts commemorated everything from the exodus out of Egypt to the harvest to the giving of the law for this chosen nation. These moedim (appointed times) are beautiful pictures of God’s redemptive plan—and each one points us to the Messiah.
Significance of the Seven Feasts of the Lord
The seven feasts of the Lord (Leviticus 23:2) continued to be important to Jesus Christ, the apostles and the New Testament Church. Their meanings summarize God’s plan of salvation. From the spotless Lamb to the resurrection harvest, this season is rich with meaning. If you are studying the feasts and festivals in the Bible, this is a great reference resource to unveil the shadows of Christ in these holy days and embrace a fuller appreciation of God's plan for humanity.
Primary Spring Holidays and Their Meanings
Passover and the Feast of Unleavened Bread are two significant holidays with deep roots in the story of Exodus. They are closely related, yet distinct, which can sometimes lead to confusion about their timing and observance. Passover (Pesach) is celebrated on the 14th day of Nisan; this holiday commemorates the Israelites' escape from Egyptian slavery. It is marked by the Seder meal, rich in symbolism and tradition, reflecting on freedom and divine protection. The Feast of Unleavened Bread (Chag HaMatzah) begins on the 15th of Nisan, immediately after Passover, and lasts for seven days. It commemorates the haste of the Israelites' departure from Egypt, symbolized by the consumption of unleavened bread (matzah), as they had no time to let their bread rise.
Additionally, Firstfruits reflects on God’s provision and the hope for future abundance, celebrated by recognizing the first yield of the harvest. The Feast of Weeks (Shavuot / Pentecost) occurs 50 days after Firstfruits and is linked to the giving of the law.
Scriptural Reference Guide
For convenience, here are the links to the scripture referenced for the major festivals:
| Feast / Festival | Scriptural References |
|---|---|
| Passover | Exodus 12: 1-4 and Leviticus 23:4-5 |
| Feast of Unleavened Bread | Exodus 12:15-20 and Leviticus 23:6-8 |
| Feast of Firstfruits | Exodus 23:16 and Leviticus 23: 9-14 |
| Feast of Weeks (Pentecost) | Leviticus 23:15-21 and Deuteronomy 16:9-10 |
2025 Spring Feast Dates
Holy days are observed beginning sundown the previous evening and end at sundown on the days listed. In 2025, Passover begins at sunset on Saturday, April 12, which is the 14th of Nisan on the biblical calendar. To honor the tradition of having your home completely chametz-free before the Passover meal, you’ll want to begin removing leaven on Friday evening, April 11.
- Friday, April 11 (Evening): Begin removing chametz (leaven)
- Saturday, April 12 (Evening): Passover begins (14th of Nisan)
- Sunday, April 13–20: Feast of Unleavened Bread (15th–21st of Nisan)
- Sunday, April 20: Feast of Firstfruits (Yom HaBikkurim)
- Sunday, June 8: Feast of Weeks (Shavuot / Pentecost)
New Testament Perspective
The New Testament further intertwines these holidays, especially in the context of Jesus’ Last Supper, which is described as a Passover meal. This has led to debates about whether the events are interchangeable, given their deep symbolic connections to Jesus as the "Lamb of God." These life-changing lessons reveal how each feast points directly to the Messiah, not just historically, but personally in your life today.