Rabbi discusses lunar calendar's impact on Passover timing at Georgia State House

During the Georgia State House meeting on April 2, 2025, the Chaplain of the Day delivered a thought-provoking message centered on the significance of Passover and its timing in the spring. The chaplain explained that the Jewish calendar, which is lunar-based, results in Passover occurring on the 15th day of the first month when the moon is fullest. However, due to the lunar calendar being shorter than the solar calendar, Passover shifts earlier each year, potentially leading it to fall outside of spring.

To address this issue, the Jewish calendar incorporates a leap year system, adding an extra month every few years to ensure that Passover remains in the spring. This adjustment underscores the importance of the season in which the holiday is celebrated, as emphasized in biblical texts from Exodus and Deuteronomy.

The chaplain posed a critical question regarding why God prioritized the timing of Passover in the spring, linking it to themes of freedom and liberty. This reflection resonated with the members of the Georgia State House, highlighting the foundational values of the republic. The message served as a reminder of the enduring significance of freedom and the importance of maintaining traditions that honor such principles.

As the session concluded, the discussion around Passover's timing not only enriched the spiritual atmosphere of the meeting but also reinforced the connection between historical observances and contemporary values of liberty and governance.