Answer
The Feast of Unleavened Bread is one of the seven feasts of the Lord and has a significant place within Judaism. This observance, also called Chag HaMatzot, lasts seven days and follows the celebration of Passover, commemorating the swift departure of the Israelites from Egypt. A key element of this feast is the consumption of unleavened bread, symbolizing the haste with which the Israelites left Egypt. Moreover, the required removal of all leaven (or yeast) from the household represents the removal of sin and impurity from one’s life (see 1 Corinthians 5:7).
The biblical origin of the Feast of Unleavened Bread can be found in Exodus 12:15–20. In this passage, Moses explains how God delivered the Israelites from bondage in Egypt. As they hurriedly left Egypt, they did not have enough time to let their bread rise, leading to the tradition of consuming unleavened bread during the week of the festival.
The Feast of Unleavened Bread spans the seven days immediately following Passover. During this period, Jewish people adhere to specific dietary restrictions: “Seven days you shall eat unleavened bread, and on the seventh day there be a feast to the Lord. Unleavened bread shall be eaten for seven days; no leavened bread shall be seen with you, and no leaven shall be seen with you in all your territory” (Exodus 13:6–7, ESV).
During this feast, the consumption of unleavened bread is more than a historical reenactment. Unleavened bread (bread free of yeast) represents the haste with which the Israelites left Egypt. The absence of yeast is also symbolic of spiritual purity. And the simplicity of unleavened bread is a tangible reminder of the humility and dependence that God desires from His children (see 2 Chronicles 7:14).
Specific guidelines for the Feast of Unleavened Bread are outlined in Exodus 12:15–20. In this passage, instructions are given for the removal of leaven from households and the consumption of unleavened bread during the seven-day period. The Feast of Unleavened Bread provided a designated time to reflect and engage in self-examination. During this time, people were prompted toward introspection, repentance, and a renewed commitment to live free from the contamination of sin.
The Feast of Unleavened Bread is closely linked to Passover, which is why the two are often mentioned together in Scripture (e.g., Exodus 12:1–20). Passover commemorated the liberation of the Israelites from slavery in Egypt and being spared from the final plague (Exodus 12:13). The Feast of Unleavened Bread extended the commemoration, highlighting the unleavened bread that sustained the people of God during their journey.
While the core elements of the Feast of Unleavened Bread remain consistent, there are variations within Judaism today. Additionally, some Christian denominations incorporate elements of this feast into their own observances, particularly those that celebrate Passover as part of their religious calendar.
In our modern context, the Feast of Unleavened Bread continues to hold immense significance for many individuals and communities. The timeless themes of freedom, spiritual purification, and humility reflect a commitment to doing what is right in the sight of the Lord (Deuteronomy 6:18). New Testament believers are not obligated to observe the Feast of Unleavened Bread or any of the other festivals of the Old Covenant (Colossians 2:16). But, even if we do not celebrate this feast, may we never forget that it is our Father in heaven who provides our daily bread (Matthew 6:11).
