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What Holidays Did Jesus Celebrate?

Written by GVOffice on .
INSIDE: See the nine holidays that Jesus celebrated and what we can learn about Him in theses feasts and festivals.

When we think about the life of Jesus, it important to ask what holidays did Jesus celebrate? As we consider this question we are reminded that He lived as a Jewish man and participated in the celebrations and traditions of His time. Knowing the holidays that Jesus celebrated helps us better understand His world and the biblical history behind many of these holidays. Let’s explore the feasts and festivals Jesus observed, starting with those found in the Bible and including others rooted in Jewish tradition.


The Biblical Feasts from Leviticus

The foundation of Jewish holidays comes from Leviticus 23, where God outlines seven major feasts for His people. The term “feast” in Leviticus is defined as an appointed time. This helps us to understand that these feasts were times when God wanted to meet with His people.

These celebrations pointed to God’s work in the history of Israel and, for Christians, they also reveal insights into Jesus’ mission and the ongoing plan of God.

  1. Passover (Pesach) Jesus celebrated Passover each year, a commemoration of Israel’s deliverance from bondage in Egypt. The Last Supper, which He shared with His disciples, was a Passover meal. This feast foreshadowed Jesus as the ultimate Passover Lamb, whose life provided us with a means of salvation.
  2. Unleavened Bread (Chag HaMatzot) This week-long feast follows Passover, during which leaven (a symbol of sin) is removed from homes. Jesus lived a sinless life and provides us a means to remove the sin in our lives through repentance.
  3. Firstfruits (Yom HaBikkurim) Celebrated on the first Sabbath after Passover, this feast reminds us of God’s provision. Jesus’ resurrection occurred on Firstfruits, signifying Him as the “firstfruits” of those who will be raised to eternal life (1 Corinthians 15:20).
  4. Pentecost (Shavuot) Fifty days after Firstfruits, Pentecost celebrates the giving of the Law on Mount Sinai. In the New Testament, the Holy Spirit was given to believers on Pentecost, providing the Holy Spirit who helps us to obey the Word of God.
  5. Trumpets (Yom Teruah/Rosh Hashanah) The Feast of Trumpets signals the start of the Jewish New Year in the fall. This feast begins a ten-day period of repentance leading up to the Day of Atonement.
  6. Day of Atonement (Yom Kippur) This solemn day focuses on repentance and atonement. As the ultimate High Priest, Jesus fulfilled what this day symbolized by offering Himself as an atonement for us.
  7. Tabernacles (Sukkot) A joyful celebration of God’s provision during Israel’s wilderness journey, Tabernacles also points forward to God dwelling with His people. John 7 records Jesus’ teaching during this festival.

Jesus celebrated each of these holidays first with His family and then later with His disciples. But he also celebrated two other holidays, Hanukkah and Purim.


Hanukkah: The Festival of Lights

Hanukkah, also called the Feast of Dedication, commemorates the rededication of the Second Temple during the Maccabean Revolt. While not one of the biblical feasts, it holds deep significance in Jewish history. The Maccabean Revolt took place about 160 years before the birth of Jesus.

John 10:22 mentions Jesus walking in the Temple during the Feast of Dedication. This shows that Jesus participated in this celebration, which highlights God’s faithfulness and the triumph of light over darkness. For Christians, it serves as a reminder that Jesus is the true Light of the World and that ultimately, He will defeat all darkness.

Feast of Lights

Purim: A Celebration of Deliverance

Purim celebrates the story of Esther, when God delivered His people from Haman’s plot to destroy them. While there’s no direct mention of Jesus observing Purim, it’s likely that He celebrated it as part of Jewish tradition. This holiday reminds us of God’s providence and protection.


Why Does This Matter for Us?

Understanding the holidays Jesus celebrated expands our understanding of His life and ministry. These festivals are more than just historical events; they’re opportunities to see God’s faithfulness and His plan of redemption unfold. As we reflect on these holy days, we’re reminded that God’s promises are steadfast and His timing is perfect.

Whether you’re exploring the biblical feasts or learning about Hanukkah and Purim, these holidays connect us to a deeper understanding of Scripture and the faithfulness of our God. Like today, holidays are a time to remember the past faithfulness of God, and to grow in our faith as we learn more about our Savior each year!

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